Nektar were one of the most important bands to emerge from the underground in the early 70's and held their position along with German stalwarts, Can, Amon Duul, Neu, Wallenstein and others for many years. Considered a minor classic in its hey day, I always found this album to be extremely raucous with heavily distorted guitars and grinding organs, bass and drums channeling the bands pent up emotions so evident during a decade when conforming to a predictable standard was just not kosher. Previously considering this to be one of their least enjoyable albums but having heard the brilliantly re-mastered version, my opinion has slightly changed in a way that gives this album more credibility and kudos with a generation of young people always looking for something with which to assimilate. I can finally understand why this album was so incredibly popular in Europe when it was first released. It has that same adrenalin infused vibe so evident on Grobschnitt's "Solar Music Live" or "Rockpommels Land".
Vocally, however, I also find some of their more intense lyrics that seem to reach into the listener's inner soul far more than their later offerings. Their later albums show a much more mature approach to their songs and while no where near as chaotic a listen as Journey, I must confess to preferring, jointly, Remember The Future and A Tab In The Ocean, with Recycled coming in a close third.
Hats off to Eclectic Discs whose job of remastering this album has been done remarkably well. Featuring a full 5.1 Surround Sound remix taken from the recently rediscovered studio multi track masters, this is a credit to all those involved.
Track Listings:
1. Prelude
2. Astronaut's Nightmare
3. Countenance
4. The Nine Lifeless Daughters Of The Sun
5. Warp Oversight
6. The Dream Nebula (Part 1)
7. The Dream Nebula (Part 2)
8. It's All In The Mind
9. Burn Out my Eyes
10.Void Of Vision
11.Pupil Of The Eye
12.Look Inside Yourself
13.Death Of The Mind
Bonus Tracks
14.1-2-3-4
15.Do You Believe In Magic