Gäa - Auf der Bahn zum Uranus. 1974 Germany

In a nutshell, Gäa (Gaa) can be described a spacey progressive rock band that sings in their native German (not very common in West Germany in those days). It's not really cosmic Krautrock in the Ohr/Pilz/Cosmic Couriers tradition, nor is it full blown complex progressive rock. The first track 'Uranus' is subjectively the best from a traditional Krautrock perspective, but is somewhat misleading considering what is to come. In this way I'm reminded of My Solid Ground's opening move. Overall, Gäa can be seen as the predecessor to the late 70s German progressive movement such as Indigo, Minotaurus, Albatros, and many others. A very fine album that captures well the amateur and enthusiastic spirit of Germany in the early 70s.

Ownership: LP: 2011 Garden of Delights. Original LPs have always been off the charts expensive, and with a cover and title like this, it's not surprising that collectors worldwide are clamoring for it.  The LP from Garden of Delights features a full biography, as well as a new mastering of the tapes. At the time of purchase this was supplemental to the Ohrwaschl CD. That CD doesn't offer anything more, and it's now been sold.

1/27/12