Review: Lumerians - Transmissions From Telos Vol. III

You know, I've oft wondered "what would Klaus Schulz sound like if he came from California" and now I know - trippy, spacey, hypnotic and pretty damned groovy!

Dave 'Cardinal Fuzz' sent over a digital promo copy of Lumerians 'Transmissions From Telos Vol III'. Apart from a very hazy gig last year at Corsica Studios (I really can't remember too much!) they are a band of which I've been aware but not 'dabbled' - big mistake. Their take of psychedelia / space rock is unique - it encompasses lounge, sci-fi and early electronic krautrock and it is a real joy.

The first track 'Murder Dubbs' is akin to space rock night in a Las Vegas nightclub (think The Pizzicato Five playing Tangerine Dream!)..it's retro and funky - what's not to like. 'Turiya' is a more atmospheric beast, it starts with an almost oriental feel with synth drones and plucky bass, some jazzy hi-hat but soon coalesces into a smooth krautrock jam. 'Hook For An Eye' has a hauntological feel to it, it would fit in well on the Ghost Box roster, but still retains it spacey, krautrock feel. If Can composed music for those weird seventies 'Children's Film Foundation' films, then this would be the result. ‘Impossible Window / Caballero Futuro’ is the longest track on the album, clocking in at 12.5 minutes. It also has a distinct retro, electronica feel (the synths below the bass and drums put me in mind of 'Blake's Seven' for some reason!). At times there are touches of Vangelis' 'Bladerunner' OST, which in my book is very high praise!

Despite, or even because, of the distinct retro flourishes to this album, it still sounds of the here and now, and provides the soundtrack to a trip into deep space and back, complete with a margarita and a pack of dry roasted. It is a great album, a pleasure to immerse one's self into and makes even a rainy day in Essex seem bearable. To complete my happiness, a visit to the Cardinal Fuzz website showed that they still have some coloured vinyl LPs in stock.....so have bought me one!

Links:

Cardinal Fuzz

Website

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