PHALLUS DEI

Phallus Dei is the seminal debut of Amon Duul II, pioneers of Krautrock among others. Born out of sheer improvisation, the album is full of avant-garde compositions, often having a brooding mood, as the album cover suggests. The band wanted to make their debut sound significant, and therefore they had been carefully practicing and preparing it before the actual recording. This can absolutely be heard in the music, which sounds dynamic and exciting from beginning to end.

Part of the unique and innovative sound of Amon Duul II are the eclectic influences. Arabic percussion, menacing violin and unusual vocals, varying from loose and silly to chant-like and operatic, are recurring theme's in their catalogue. Therefore, it's no surprise that Phallus Dei has a diverse but consistent sound with many unexpected elements. The album is an enthralling journey from beginning to end, taking the listener through some the most manical dissonance I have ever heard. The epic title track in particular is full of this frightening dissonance, coming in the form of creepy violin playing, reverberated shouts of angst, and intense improvisation. Just as astounding are the other songs, such as the mesmerizing "Kanaan" with its relentless groove; the theatrical "Dem Guten, Schonen, Waren"; and "Luzifers Ghilom", which is more in the vein of what's to come on an album such as Yeti. These songs often come with folky tendencies, enthralling riffs, and sound quite heavy, looking at the year it was released.

Yes, Phallus Dei is a mind-blowing debut album, being dynamic, innovative, unique, but perhaps a tad immature, looking at future releases by the band. Nevertheless, I consider Phallus Dei to be a masterpiece and an absolutely essential album in Amon Duul II's catalogue. The album will surely be enjoyed by those who enjoy psychedelica, dissonance and menacing atmospheres.