WOLF CITY

During the late 80's-early 90's, unusual Euro-Prog LP's frequently turned up in the local 2nd-hand record shop (and at fairs) for wonderously low prices. I hesitated not, ever seeking out music from odd bands most people hadn't heard of (Hammill/VDGG were amongst them, might I add). From the very first time I listened to this album, it totally 'floored' me. It continues to do so today. It turned out to be a unique and fresh aural adventure, even the mind-boggling cover-art (by keyboardist Falk Rogner) was seldom like anything else I've seen up till that point - not even various Roger Dean/Hipgnosis artworks came close to the inventive photography/collage-work that graced the presentation of this obscure German psychedelic band (Falk has confirmed that he "wanted to capture the visions he saw whilst on LSD"). Musically, this incredibly creative ensemble performed highly original progressive-rock - contrary to many alleged similarities with Pink Floyd - they really sounded like no-one else (I suppose they could show really vague similarities with the Floyd, but maybe 'The Doors' also). Not a dull moment throughout. The lengthy Duul classic which opens the album, 'Surrounded By The Stars', clearly displays an affirmed confidence, a true vision encompassing excitement, focus and spontaneity ; great arrangement, instrumentation (featuring rarely used keyboards such as a 'Choir Organ' - which is NOT a Mellotron, and a 'Clavioline') and their performance is flawless - impressive Bass-work from Lothar Meid on this track. Very, VERY impressive stuff - like ALL the releases prior to this !!