VIVE LA TRANCE

I'll start by expressing my true affection for nearly everything Amon Duul II has released, regardless of the drastic change in style over the years. As far as Krautrock goes, they are a sadly overlooked band in the new millenia (at least in my musical circle). Vive la Trance is, to me, the most interesting album as a whole from this group, and I never tire of it. From their early days of true psychadelic krautrock, to the pop-rock of their last few albums, Amon Duul II has always had something good to offer just outside the norm... and Vive la Trance is right in the middle of their catalogue where it belongs.

Although krautrock might not be the right category for many of their releases, this album has the last remaining elements of the genre that they would release. It is both bizarre and accessible, catchy and different, and unlike their earlier works (notably the first 3 albums), each and every song has its own unique feel and sound. Jalousie is a great Jefferson Airplane-esque song with a darker feel. Im Krater and Apocalyptic Bore are both trippy in their own right, while A Morning Excuse/ Fly United/ Dr./ Trap all have pop-rock elements, but with a variety of instruments. Pig Man is like a Beatles B-side with sax, and Manana reminds me of a beach song. Mozambique is the longest and perhaps the best song, complete with two intros, good song body and an intense, driving ending. The closer, Ladies Mimikry, is the most bizarre of all, changing style and tempo throughout.

Vive la Trance lives up to its name, with each song having somewhat of a trance quality without being trance music. It is a fantastic album and always fun.

4.49 stars