Elektrobus - Nedefinitivni (1974-1976 czechoslovakia avant progressive rock - MP3 320K and FLAC)

[ Progressive Series # 94 ]

Nedefinitivni was released by the Czech label Black Point in 2001 as part of its Archiv series.

It gathers live recordings from 1975-1976 by one of the most influential avant-rock groups in communist Czechoslovakia.

Of course, the sound quality is poor -- rock concerts were illegal, let alone recording them.

But if one is willing to look over some tape noise, muffled sounds, and signal overload, Nedefinitivni has a lot to offer, especially to fans of '90s alternative Czech rock, progressive rock fans, and Frank Zappa fans.

Drummer Vlastimil Marek and guitarist Pavel Richter were dedicated Zappa followers.

It shows in their writing ("Dumka" is simply stunning), but also in their set list. Renditions of "King Kong," "I'm the Slime," "Muffin Man" (these two sung in Czech), and a surprising "Theme From Lumpy Gravy" cohabit with Elektrobus' originals.

The longest tracks show his influence, but also an interest in prog rock in general (maybe even Henry Cow), while the shorter ones are inhabited by the zaniness of early Uz Jsme Doma: high-pitched vocals, grunts, and unexpected twists and turns (another comparison would be a keyboard-less Samla Mammas Manna).

Most of the performances are musically very strong, with a peak reached in "Mojo Hlava Neni Zdrava," "Dumka," and "Strach" -- a very powerful closing section.

This CD has historical value (these are the only live documents of this band) and exciting music for the curious listener not offended by sound-quality issues (by François Couture).

Tracklisting:

01.Le Bis

02.Mne Holky Zerou

03.Elektrobus

04.Slecna Mimi

05.Kruci Turci

06.Pisen Pro Martu

07.Nocni Ghost

08.King Kong

09.Jizda Vysocinou

10.I'm the Slime

11.Moje Hlava Neni Zdrava

12.Dumka

13.Strach

14.Muffin Man

Elektrobus:
*Vlastimil Marek: Drums
*Elektrobus: Main Performer

[ Tank you CHRIS41K for the links courtesy ]
Links in the comments (full artwork scan included).