Medusa's archival album is a low budget, basement-launched hard rock meets space rock affair. Medusa are a quintet from Chicago, with dual guitars and a dedicated vocalist. There's not a whole lot in the way of songcraft here, but plenty of good guitar jams, which gives that space rock flair. A few complicated rhythms add a progressive rock intent. Not hearing the label's own Sabbath/Hawkwind/Amon Duul II references here - though it's not disingenuous to make those comparisons. It does give the listener an idea at least of what to expect. But for deep divers, you'll instantly recognize the sound of the Union Local filled Midwestern beer tavern. Somewhere between Sorcery (Chicago), Pi Corp (Cleveland), and Id (Baltimore) (of Where are We Going? fame) is where you'll spot the sound of Medusa. All these bands no doubt absorbed the same influences as Medusa, and at the same time. And those influences are likely to be Black Sabbath, Hawkwind, et al...
Ownership: LP: 2013 Numero Group. The packaging of the vinyl is nothing short of magnificent. A thick fold-out cover in velveteen, with gold embossed letters. It also comes with a nicely textured single sleeve black insert with gold lettering, that includes the lyrics and recording details. Surprisingly there is no detailed history. The Numero Group is a well known label amongst the hipster DJ crowd and they've even received 3 Grammy Award nominations. So it's pretty cool to see them treading in our underground progressive waters. Love to see them release more output like this!
10/12/13; 1/16/14 (new entry)
No comments:
Post a Comment