ERPLAND

This is the first Ozric Tentacles album I purchased...and I sure am glad I did. This simply stated is one of the greatest albums of all time. Combining elements of trance, ambient, ethnic, space rock, jazz and every other style known to man, this album makes for a truly unique listening experience. The first track "eternal wheel" gets the listener ready for what is about to come. Starting off with simple synth and bass lines, the song suddenly burst into a psychadelic jam. The guitar work on this track is exceptional, thanks to Ed Wyne (ozrics mastermind). Notice any similarities between Ed Wyne and Steve Hillage (GONG etc.)? "Toltec Spring" is a mellow track that uses ethnic influences and amazing flutework to create amazing atmospheres. The standout track on this album is "Inscence". The amazing thing about this band and album is their ability to combine so many different elements into their music. This track is their version of a reggae song. The only song on the entire album to feature lyrics, this track grooves in and out of hypnotising bass lines and drum beats. If someone played this album for me for the first time again, I would have never guessed that this space/techno/ethnic rock album was released in 1990. Although about 95% instrumental, the music makes up for the lake of lyrics. Clocking in at 75 minutes, Erpland well worth the time it takes to fully soak in everything the album has to offer. I think it is apparent that this group is/was under the influence of psychadelic drugs from their covers and music. Defenitaly recommended for any fan of prog rock as a whole, but essential for anyone who loves psychadelic space rock. If you enjoy Steve Hillage era Gong, Ash Ra Tempel, Amon Duul II etc. you will love the Ozric Tentacles. Thank you Ozric Tentacles for being one of the brilliant bands around today.