Gong gone punk.
About Time documents
Daevid Allen's 1979 New York trip to partake of the then-happenin' CBGB's scene. The new sound is an odd hybrid of psychedelia (
"Preface"), new wave ("I Am a Freud") and punk ("Much Too Old"), with a lyrical sentiment reminiscent of early-'70s
Gong ("Jungle Window"). The CD opens with an effects-laden recording of
Allen reciting his "trippy" poetry. Some of the compositions, like "I Am a Freud," bleed quirky rhythms and melodies resembling the work of
the League of Gentlemen and
Talking Heads. "Materialism" and "Strong Woman" feature
Allen's glissando guitar, which seems a forerunner to the sound
Fripp and
Belew employed on their early-'80s
King Crimson projects. "Materialism," penned by
Laswell, is a standout with its dominating bass driving home the groove. Another highlight is "Jungle Window," the most
Gong-like piece in the set, featuring
Gary Windo's jagged sax and
Laswell's popping bass.
About Time is a solid CD which pleasantly expands
Allen's repertoire. ~ David Ross Smith
