Astra - The Weirding (CD)
Rise Above Psychedelica
Musically speaking, this is psychedelic rock all the way, inspired particularly by Pink Floyd's Meddle, with some hints of Black Sabbath. Guitar solos go on for ever, keyboards and occasional wind instruments add the obligatory narcotic vibe to it all, while the vocals are subdued and echoed, only to venture into a slightly more edgy, Ozzy-like delivery during the heavier moments. The album is largely instrumental, with the 17 minute epic "Ouroboros" being a particular masterpiece of textured, somehow liquid songwriting. Conversely, the title track is an angrier affair, with heavier guitars structured into distinguishable riffs and a soaring, emotional vocal performance. I'm fairly sure were this album to be released in the early 70s, it would actually be a classic by now.