Godz
 

Anyone heard of this group? They were an experimental/psychedelic/garage rock band from the 60s who helped pioneer experimental rock, freak folk, punk rock, and noise rock.

The members of the band barely knew how to play their own instruments, and they stressed the use of minimalism when approaching composition (even to the point where the guitarist is just playing one chord). The music from their second and third albums sort of reminds me of early Half Japanese (which is a compliment), while their debut album sounds like... something else (atonal/stripped-down freak folk?). Either way, they're an interesting band who were about a decade ahead of their time.

Recommended albums:

• Contact High with the Godz (1966)
• Godz II (1967)
• The Third Testament (1968)

So, as you can see from the videos... they were most likely blitzed out of their minds...

Interesting fact:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wikipedia "One day Paul came over to visit them, and the three gathered in Larry's living room to smoke a joint. What happened next was purely accidental, according to Jim: "There were all these percussive instruments lying around and out of total frustration, I got up and started shaking a tambourine or something like that, and that's how it all started. We all started to get up and make noise like a bunch of maniacs, expressing our frustration." After this event "Larry made a suggestion that had both Jim and Paul questioning his sanity: that the three audition this impromptu "band" for ESP."

Thoughts, opinions (positive or otherwise), etc?

They're absolutely insane, but I like them a lot. Godz II is great, if you're looking for a real trip from a psychedelic album, I'd recommend that over 90% of the albums released by more revered bands from the late 60s.

The Third Testament is pretty good too, though I don't think it touches Godz II.

Do you like/know the Fugs, Jack?

I've put it on a couple of times, but I always get half way through then just wanna whack on Godz II. I'll give it a more discerning listen.

From the little I've heard of these guys, they remind me a lot of the Monks. They focus so much rhythm and a percussive attitude on all their instruments, the music has a tribal beat element to it, and I enjoy that. But, where the Monks had something close to structure (and even then I use the term very loosely), Godz removes that element completely. Where the Monks thinly glazed over their G.I. stomp-songs with a definable message and intent, Godz throw that out the window and set it on fire. Sure psychedelics played a part in the music they made, but it takes balls to even think about stuff like this.

Godz certainly have my respect and admiration, even if I never hear another second of their music. But I don't plan on that.

I find them good for a listen once every year or so. Original, certainly. But not particularly enjoyable for me, I'm afraid.