GONG Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Gong's Unending Ascending represents the third album from the current lineup, handpicked by Daevid Allen before his passing. Following Rejoice! I'm Dead! and The Universe Also Collapses, this release continues to explore the boundaries of psychedelic space rock while carving out its own identity. This album shifts away from the Canterbury sound and Daevid Allen's trademark whimsy, focusing instead on a spacey, progressive rock journey. With a runtime of less than 40 minutes, it maintains a brisk pace, offering a series of well-crafted tracks that blend modern influences with echoes of Gong's classic era. Tracks like 'Tiny Galaxies' and 'My Guitar Is A Spaceship' highlight the band's ability to merge catchy hooks with cosmic themes. 'All Clock's Reset' evokes the spirit of Gong's past while integrating new elements, and 'Choose Your Goddess' delivers a funky, riff-driven groove. The band's musicianship is commendable, and their dedication to continuing Gong's legacy is evident. Though the absence of a dynamic frontman leaves a slight void, the album's blend of innovation and homage to Gong's roots provides a compelling listen. Unending Ascending is a worthy continuation of their evolving legacy - even for the most discerning Gong fans.

Review: Gong's second and perhaps most beloved effort 'Camembert Electrique' resurfaces on Charly Records. Recorded at the grandiose Strawberry Studios in the scenic northern French countryside, the album's 11 tracks pulse, contract and twist in a lairy bacchanal of folk, psychedelic sludge, progressive rock tropes and deadpan pop hooks. From the opening tape jingle 'Radio Gnome' to the jangly, propulsive closing prog quest 'Tropical Fish: Selene', Gong balance moments of extreme campness with quiet, emotional introspection, as on the portmanteau 'Mister Long Shanks/O Mother/I Am Your Fantasy', where driving proto-punk riffage segues into operatic proto-Black Midi ditty segues into breathtakingly suspended lap steel ambience.