Morgen - Morgen (Remastered, Expanded Edition) (1969/2013)

Although "Morgen" has often been called the greatest psychedelic album few people have actually heard, the level of its visibility has rapidly been rising these past several years. Thanks to the miracle of the internet, word has spread about the disc and now that a high quality reissue is available, more folks obviously have the opportunity to own a copy of the rare artifact. Initially released on the Probe label in late 1969, the album was recorded by a New York band named after their lead singer, Steve Morgen, while lead guitarist Murray Shiffrin, rhythm guitarist Barry Stock, bassist Bobby Rizzo and drummer Mike Ratti cemented the group.

Shaking with raw and sexual energy, "Morgen" carries the kind of urgency and excitement executed by bands like Love, the Doors and the Rolling Stones. Composed of all original material, the songs, which are dipped in acid-riddled acrylics and animated lyrics, really pull the listener in. Snarling with conviction and purpose, the vocals are utterly intense, where the guitar playing, sizzling with killer diller dynamics, exposes an allegiance to Jimi Hendrix. The whole band is amazingly fantastic, as they lock everything together with sweat dripping from their knitted brows and thunder and lightening crackling from their instruments.

The first track on the disc, "Welcome To The Void," with its seductively dark temper and shivery equations, sets the motion for the remainder of the songs. Huddles of hard driving rhythms, supported by drifts of imaginative breaks, powerful drumming and melodies are staples throughout. Moody but tough, "Morgen" has a lot going on, making it the type of record you can spin over and over and over again and still experience new sensations. A shot of flashy jazz riffs adorn the haunting grip of "Love" and "She's The Nightime" tosses a catchy pop feel into the system. Stirring with life and spontaneous inspiration, "Of Dreams," "Beggin' Your Pardon (Miss Joan)," "Purple" and "Eternity In Between" are ideal illustrations of genuine psychedelic rock. Positively paralyzing, "Morgen" is one of my very favorite albums, and it should be yours too!