GIFT

GIFT was a German band who released two studio albums in the first half of the seventies. They were birthed out of a band called PHALLUS DEI which most of these guys were a part of when they were still in high school. Clearly fans of AMON DUUL II but they would eventually change their name to GIFT and release this self titled album in 1972. A five piece of two lead guitarists, bass, drums and vocals. This is hard rocking material at times but man this band was innovative for being lumped with those heavy, hard rocking psychedelic bands of the late sixties and early seventies. In fact the best band I've heard in this style is LUCIFER'S FRIEND and while I wouldn't put this band at that level they at least can compete with the way they play and their compositions.

This is a very consistent album as well and I'm not surprised at Mike's 4.5 star review. The best song might be "Don't Hurry" with the wordless vocals and the guitars ripping it up. A lot of those vocal melodies on this album which I really enjoy along with the dual guitars. The closer "Bad Vibrations" seems like a shot at THE BEACH BOYS. It chugs along with vocal melodies over top. So catchy and I like when the guitar mimics the vocals as themes are repeated. The track before it is so good called "Your Like" with that killer start and how about the attitude. Love the guitar after 2 minutes and the calm that is interesting.

Dark and experimental to open "Game Of Skill" then drums only before guitars and bass kick in then vocals. I really like the sound of this one. The calm again is has my attention before it kicks back in. Cycling guitars with vocals late. The only song that didn't resonate with me like the other tunes was "Time Machine". A lot of wordless vocals and flute on "Groupie". How about that instrumental section on the opener "Drugs" ripping it up. This is followed by the proggy "You'll Never Be Accepted" the longest piece at almost 7 minutes.

A great debut and the followup "Blue Apple" will also impress big time even though there was a couple changes in the band.