Warlocks, the – “Phoenix Album ” – [Birdman]

Max Level   2/4/2006   A Library, CD

The Warlocks’ ever-changing lineup has evolved this time into a larger ensemble (4 guitarists and 2 drummers on every song, plus bass, organ, and extra percussion). Bobby Hecksher, leader and only constant Warlock, leads this psychedelic fuzztone assault. He says “we’re looking to blow minds.” The simple chords and droning guitars recall Spacemen 3, as well as the Velvet Underground. And when Hecksher blows a few ragged lines on his harmonica, I hear classic garage rock like the Standells and Count Five in the mix too. Several tracks in the 3 to 5 minute range, a couple in the 7 to 8 minute range, and a couple that are 9 minutes or longer. All tracks have vocals, except Track 10, a blurry, 14-minute droning instrumental extravaganza. Fuzz guitars, slide guitars, backwards guitars, it’s all here. I suggest you check out The Warlocks before The Man classifies this music as an illegal substance.