Amon Düül

Introduction to Paradieswarts Duul

Amon Duul's album Paradieswarts Duul, released in 1971, marks an important phase in the band’s evolution. This album is their sole release for the Ohr label, a platform known for promoting experimental music in Germany. Recorded at the end of 1970, Paradieswarts Duul represents a shift from the band’s earlier, more chaotic jam sessions to a more structured songwriting approach.

Musical Composition

The album consists of three tracks, each showcasing the band’s unique blend of acoustic instrumentation. The first track, "Love Is Peace," lasts 16 minutes and features a diverse array of instruments. Dadam contributes acoustic guitar, vocals, and lyrics, while Ulrich plays bass and piano. Hansi brings in the flute and bongos, and Ella adds harp to the mix. Lemur's involvement on percussion and melody guitar enriches the sound further.

The second track, "Show Your Thurst And Sun Your Open Mouth," runs for 9 minutes and showcases a different arrangement. Here, Dadam takes on the bass, while Noam plays African drums. Ulrich and Lemur provide guitar elements, with Helge enhancing the rhythm on percussion.

The closing track, "Paramechanische Welt," lasts 7 minutes and features Chris on bongos. Dadam, John, and Ulrich collaborate on guitars, with Dadam also handling vocals. This collaborative spirit is evident throughout the album, as all music is credited to the group collectively.

Artistic Direction

Unlike their previous albums, which emphasized free-form improvisation, Paradieswarts Duul leans towards a more folk-influenced sound. The pastoral and acoustic elements have drawn comparisons to the gentler works of American bands like Love and the Velvet Underground. The album is often categorized within the acid folk genre of the Krautrock scene, offering a contrast to the more aggressive styles of Amon Duul's earlier works.

Production Details

The album cover was designed by Gil, with a back-cover painting by Lemur. The mastering was handled by PF, and production duties fell to J. Schittenhelm. The entire project reflects a more cohesive artistic vision, highlighting a distinct phase in Amon Duul's career.

Release Information

Paradieswarts Duul was released in 1971 as a vinyl LP. The album is a clear representation of the band's transition towards a more focused sound and artistic direction.