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Music: Cassette Tapes

Contains tracks from Ozric Tentacles' first five cassette-only release: ERPSONGS, TANTRIC OBSTACLES, THERE IS NOTHING, SLIDING GLIDING WORLDS, and THE BITS BETWEEN THE BITS. Named after a fictitious breakfast cereal, the Ozrics (as they are fondly known) single-handedly resuscitated the old '70s chestnut known as space rock (think Gong, Steve Hillage, Hawkwind, Guru Guru, Eloy), and by breathing life into the withered vessel, called it their own. One of the best ways to get an initial Ozrics rush is via this double-CD compilation, lifted from a series of early, gig-only cassettes. Start with the opening salvo, "Guzzard," which spins wildy upon its ionized guitar axis, shot through with cyclonic gusts of electronics, retro-rocket drum rhythms, and bass from space. Then segue into "Chinatype," a track recorded exclusively for this set, whereupon the frothy patina of bells and chimes ring and dance in a no-man's-land of breezy synths and percussive haikus. Skip ahead (if you're up to it) to "Velmwend," as a slowly percolating sequencer builds into a cacophonous yet beautiful burst of psychedelic splendor. You've now gained a foothold into the Ozric Tentacles universe. AFTERSWISH is an ideal primer for the uninitiated and a solid representation of the band's humble beginnings. Let your mind roam free here.

Contains tracks from Ozric Tentacles' first five cassette-only release: ERPSONGS, TANTRIC OBSTACLES, THERE IS NOTHING, SLIDING GLI