PSYCHONAUT

Not as psychedelic as their previous album, nor as electronic or cosmic as their next, Brainticket hit a good medium with their sophomore effort, Psychonaut. The laid-back and chill feel of the album is always there, but still has a jam band feeling, much like their debut; albeit not as acid-laced (or bad tripish). The unheard chill of the 1970s.

1.Radagacuca - The first sign of a good trip may start off scary, as this song definatly does. The heavy church organ and flute fills are almost primative sounding, though still retain a slightly otherworldly feeling. After a slightly heavy beginning, a very primative beat is set, with sitars, bongos, and interesting but chill vocal harmonies. The flute is still present, as the vocals speak in english with a slight accent that may not be heard for the untrained ear. A classic opening. (9.5/10)

2.One Morning - One of the shorter tracks, also the only filler track. Vocal harmonies are here, as are the classical sounding piano and odd bongos that really don't mix with the sharp sound of the piano being played. It's definatly aways from the overall trip, as there is nothing truely redeeming about it. (6/10)

3.Watchin' You - Possibly my favourite on the album, a totally grooving, acid drenched track, filled with heavy organ, creepy sound effects, steady beat, and screaming women vocals. The type of sound that is played is more on the garage rock side of things, as they sloppily plow through the song, but with an almost proto-punk feeling. Great bass playing and drumming, as the beat is always steady. Nice and innovative. (10/10)

4.Like a Place in the Sun - Almost eclectic prog, very nice psychedelia and sharp instrumentation is on this track. The poetry may be reminded of hawkwind, but female, is totally trippy. Catchy chorus, nice organ parts and riffing is on this track. Definatly a keeper of a track. (9/10)

5.Feel the Wind Blow - One of the other fillers. Actually not that bad considering, as the band takes on some new folk influences, mixed with the ethnic sound of the bongos. The vocals are a down point, as some off-key vocal harmonies are always there, but what do you expect from five or six mushroom-munching musicians? Nice and calmn acoustic psychedelia. (7.5/10)

6.Cocò Mary - Quite a bit like the older days of band, as the track relies on heavy usage of effect-laden organ. Riffing of the organ is always there, with heavy jazz flourishes and pounding drums. Heavy bass drumming and bass playing are mixed with light sounds of flute, totally makes for an interesting and varied experience. (8.5/10)

Though there are some dudes on this album, theres some great tracks, as this is another great album from the krautrock genre. I give it a 4 stars, mostly because there are a few tracks that don't get your attention. Highly recommended if you want to explore the limits of the hammond organ and your mind...