Agitation Free on DeBaser: krautrock trips, Malesch & 2nd

The Profile

Agitation Free is a German krautrock group from Berlin. Known for fusing psychedelic rock and kosmische textures with field recordings and Middle Eastern influences, they debuted with Malesch (1972) and followed with 2nd (1973). Early ties include Chris Franke and Michael Hoenig, both associated with Tangerine Dream.

Formed in Berlin; debut album Malesch (1972) followed by 2nd (1973). Early member Christopher Franke later joined Tangerine Dream; keyboardist Michael Hoenig also worked with Tangerine Dream. The band famously drew on recordings from a Goethe-Institut trip to Egypt for Malesch and later issued releases such as River of Return, Shibuya Nights and Momentum.

The reviews present Agitation Free as a Berlin krautrock outfit whose 1972 debut Malesch is a seamless Egyptian travelogue, blending field recordings with cosmic psychedelia and oriental motifs. Tracks like You Play For Us Today, Sahara City, Ala Tul and the title piece are praised for atmosphere and flow. The 1973 follow-up 2nd shifts from ethnic flavors to a more kosmische, atmospheric and jazz-rock-inflected sound, with highlights including First Communication and A Quiet Walk. Connections to Tangerine Dream via Chris Franke and Michael Hoenig are noted.

Notable Quotes

❝ Agitation Free channels their travel impressions into Malesch along with sound fragments recorded on the streets of Cairo and other stops on their itinerary, producing an "on the road" album unmatched and unmatchable in many ways.