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Gong: Live 2 Infinitea/Live In London
ByAs an introduction to the music of Gong this album represents the same potpouri of styles that has been typical of their production for over 30 years. However the main focus, as the title suggests, is singularly the music of this millenium’s tour lineup. The 10 new pieces are the combined works of all band members – from north african Dervish wind work by Malherbe, to the disco-funk of drummer Chris Taylor and more standard freeform saxophony of Travis. Blended in are 3 standards from Gong’s ‘classic LP’s of the early ‘70’s, Zero the Hero and the Witch’s Spell, Inner Temple and the wistful, poetic Selene, first penned in 1969 by Allen with co-founder Gilly Smyth. She adds her characteristic vocal witchery (originally described as ‘space whisper’) here and elsewhere, while bassist Mike Howlett slips in odd allusions to other of the band’s golden oldies from those halcyon years.
Instead of swaying new listeners to the far-fling Gong diaspora (the band currently being on a 3 continent tour), this album shows their abiding strength is in live performance. They demonstrate energy far beyond that appropriate for a band with an average age well into the 50’s, skills honed during those intermittent decades on the road, and proof that audience contact was the spice that was missing from their last 2 studio CD’s. I can vouch that seeing is believing (a 2½ hour plus non-stop performance witnessed during the summer), but in lieu the of direct experience LIVE GONG will resound around your cranium to your continuing delight.
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Gong
band / ensemble / orchestraAlbum information
Title: Live 2 Infinitea/Live In London | Year Released: 2000 | Record Label: Snapper
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