Amon Duul II
Carnival In Babylon

THE REVIEW

The Amon Duul II, the legendary Kraut-Rock band formed after the split from Amon Duul (originally a politicized hippie commune), created a powerful and hallucinogenic trilogy between 1969 and 1971, consisting of the rough gem "Phallus Dei" and the timeless masterpieces "Yeti" and "Tanz Der Lemminge". The sonic maelstrom of psychedelia, avant-garde, gothic, and luciferian atmospheres remains something unique and unparalleled to this day, captivating musicians like Julian Cope, as noted in his "visionary" book "Krautrocksampler". The Amon Duul II absorbed the lessons of American psychedelia from bands like Jefferson Airplane, Quicksilver Messenger Service, and Grateful Dead, filtering it through their Teutonic culture. Their music exudes a "Wagnerian" and apocalyptic atmosphere akin to the "Ride of the Valkyries". The group included many collaborators but was centered on inspired minds such as multi-instrumentalist Chris Karrer (guitar, violin, and sax), guitarist John Weinzierl, organist Falk Rogner, and drummer Peter Leopold.

After the aforementioned "masterpiece trilogy," the group released "Carnival In Babylon" in 1972. It is definitely a more subdued and controlled album, less wild and creative, which at the time led some to cry betrayal. It was said to be a significant step back, but upon re-listening, this judgment sounds harsh. They indeed lost the improvisational attitude and the cosmic and lysergic rides, but this led to greater structure and accessibility. "Carnival In Babylon" certainly showcases the great musical cohesion achieved by Amon Duul II and it's no coincidence that the album is among the favorites of progressive music lovers. For this occasion, the lineup included Weinzierl, Karrer, Leopold, bassist Lothar Meid, and keyboardist Klaus Hausman. The skilled singer Renate Knaup-Krotenschwartz had more space and percussionist Danny Fichelscher made his appearance, who would later also join Popol Vuh as a guitarist.

The opening track "C.I.D. In Uruk" is an acidic and melancholic psychedelic ballad painting mythical scenarios. The following "All The Years ‘Round" is one of their best songs, earning Amon Duul II the nickname "the black Jefferson Airplane". Renate Knaup's voice is unmistakable, lending a personal and almost dramatic aura while emphasizing the interplay of the two guitars. "Shimmering Sands" is another compelling track featuring perfect interplay among the musicians. The keyboards and sax (evoking Van Der Graaf! I've always been intrigued that both groups addressed the topic of Lemmings, interpreting it as a metaphor for human self-destruction) provide a very prog sound. "Kronwinkl 12" is a short composition highlighting Chris Karrer's guitar talent, followed by "Tables Are Turned," with its acoustic, folk, and West Coast-sounding elements. The long and sinister "Hawknose Harlequin" closes the album: it's a return to the visionary nightmares of the beginnings and will surely appeal to those who adored the early works of Amon Duul II. It starts mellow, with a reciting voice accompanied by the Arabic-like sounds of the violin and keyboards. In the latter instrumental part, the music becomes liquid, surreal, and psychedelic, reminiscent of Pink Floyd's "Interstellar Overdrive" and the improvisations of "Yeti" and "Yeti Talks To Yogi". Truly a great acid trip that brings out the mystical animal hidden within us.

In conclusion, "Carnival In Babylon," along with the subsequent and equally valid "Wolf City," features prominently in Amon Duul II's discography. The first signs of decline would later become evident with "Vive la Trance". Today, the group is still alive and active, confirming a regained inspiration.