Artist: Amon Düül II Album: Phallus Dei

Year: 1969
Duration: 0:0-1

A of the Album: Phallus Dei by Amon Düül II

German psychedelic rock band Amon Düül II made waves in the 1970s with their unique sound and experimental approach to music. One of their most notable albums is Phallus Dei, released in 1969, which features a blend of rock, folk, and avant-garde elements. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the band, the music genre of the album, the best songs of the album, the most innovative parts, and ultimately, our own critical opinion on Phallus Dei.
Amon Düül II started in the late 1960s as a collective of musicians living in a commune in Germany. They were considered one of the pioneers of the krautrock movement, a genre that emphasized experimentation and improvisation. Phallus Dei, released in 1969, was their second album and was considered one of their most groundbreaking works. The album features long, winding tracks, with a fusion of rock, folk, and psychedelic sounds, which helped to define the genre.
One of the standout songs on the album is the opening track, “Phallus Dei.” The song starts with a sparse, eerie introduction, before launching into a frenzied jam complete with distorted guitars and tribal drums. The song was inspired by Indian classical music and African percussion, and it features a rare use of the tabla in rock music.
“Kanaan” is another highlight of the album, with its haunting melody and fuzzy guitar riffs. The song’s peaceful, hypnotic sound is a contrast to the more aggressive tracks on the album. The third song, “Dem Guten, Schönen, Wahren,” is a nod to the band’s avant-garde leanings, with its bizarre spoken-word lyrics and spacey soundscapes.
One of the most impressive features of Phallus Dei is the band’s use of sound effects and unconventional instruments. For example, in “Phallus Dei,” a screaming baby can be heard over the chaotic guitar riffs, adding to the frenzied atmosphere. In “Luzifers Ghilom,” a flute is used in an unconventional way, creating an eerie, otherworldly sound.
Overall, Phallus Dei represents a unique and significant contribution to the krautrock and psychedelic rock genres. The album’s use of diverse instrumentation, unconventional song structures, and experimental sound effects helped to push the boundaries of rock music and cemented Amon Düül II's place in music history.
In conclusion, Phallus Dei is an emblematic album that still stands out in the psychedelic rock scene. Its distinctive and daring sound brings together a range of sonic elements to create a truly innovative work. Amon Düül II was a trailblazing band that went beyond the limits of rock to explore new sonic territories. Phallus Dei is definitely worth a listen for anyone interested in the genre, as it remains a key example of the band's legacy and influence on the music scene.