Lothar And The Hand People – Space Hymn 1969 (USA, Psychedelic Rock)
The band's second and final album. Lothar is actually the name of a theremin (playing this instrument requires a well-developed musical ear: while playing, the musician doesn't touch the instrument and can therefore only rely on their hearing to determine the position of their hands relative to it). Along with two Moog synthesizers, Ampex tape recorders, keyboards, and a linear controller, the band's sound is characterized by the theremin and other electronic devices. On "Space Hymn," the theremin and other electronic devices are typically used to great effect. The album consists of a mixture of bizarre material and commercial numbers, such as "Yes, I Love You," "Heatwave," and "Say 'I Do!'." The lyrics are often typical hippie clichés. For example, "What Grows On Your Head?" romanticizes the freedom and dignity of long hair. The title track reaches new heights of madness as the vocalist begins to hypnotize his audience. Quite an interesting album. Aside from "Heatwave," all the material was written by the band.
Tracks:
01. Yes, I Love You – 0:00
02. Today Is Only Yesterday's Tomorrow – 3:15
03. Midnight Ranger – 8:36
04. Sister Lonely – 11:58
05. Wedding Night For Those Who Love – 14:39
06. Heat Wave – 19:06
07. Say "I Do!" – 22:41
08. What Grows On Your Head? – 25:37
09. Sdrawkcab – 28:48
10. Space Hymn – 32:41
Personnel:
Rusty Ford - bass
Kim King — Moog synthesizer, guitar, Ampex tape decks
Paul Conly — keyboards, audio generator, Moog synthesizer
John Emelin - lead vocals, Theremin (Lothar)
Tom Flye – percussion
