BACHDENKEL – LEMMINGS – 1973 (UK) space rock

Bachdenkel was a Birmingham psychedelic rock band, named "U Know Who". they changed their name to Bachdenkel when they early in their carreer moved to France to live and record there. Their debut album was recorded in 1970, but wasn't released untill 1973 (though different sources contradict each other on that point), which made the sound seem a bit out-dated, with influences of the late 60's psychedelic scene including Procol Harum, The Beatles, The Byrds and Pink Floyd.

Lemmings is an often overlooked gem, with very good stellar psychedelic Rhythm & Blues tracks, mainly focussing on guitars and drums, with some organ and piano songs and passages thrown in. The voice is a bit an acquired taste, but works well certainly on the more relaxed pieces. Highlights on this fabulous album are the increasingly powerfull Strangerstill and The Settlement Song, and the almost metal song Come All Ye Faceless. No weak tracks really. The bonus tracks are great aswell and fit right in with the 'original' album tracks.

Lemmings is a must listen album for those who like early Pink Floyd and late Beatles albums, and assorted bands like The Byrds, early Deep purple (Mark I), May Blitz and Procol harum. A masterpiece, I think so at least. Rounded down to 4 stars because it sounds a bit out-dated, even for the time it was released. (progarchives.com)

Colin Swinburne (vocals, guitar, piano)
Peter Kimberley (bass)
Karel Beer (guitar)
Brian Smith (drums)1. Translation (4:16)
2. Equals (1:52)
3. An Appointment With The Master (5:19)
4. The Settlement Song (11:23)
5. Long Time Living (2:22)
6. Strangerstill (6:56)
7. Come All Ye Faceless (9:06)
Bonus tracks on 1990 CD re-issue (from the EP):
8. The Slightest Distance (6:08)
9. Donna (4:16)
10. A Thousand Pages Before (6:32)

Rip from CD 256@ (artwork included)
Download links
http://lix.in/6df9b7c7
http://lix.in/eed75de3