Virus

Introduction to Virus

Virus was a German psychedelic and krautrock band originating from Bielefeld. The band gained recognition in the early 1970s for their unique sound and approach to music. Their second and final album, "Thoughts," was released in late 1971 on the Pilz label. This album was recorded at Star Studio Hamburg, with Jürgen Schmeisser as the producer and Conny Plank serving as the engineer.

Musical Evolution

With "Thoughts," Virus shifted their musical direction from the lengthy improvisations of their debut album, "Revelation," to a more song-oriented style. The sound on this album incorporates elements of hard rock and blues, featuring shorter tracks with structured arrangements. The band employed two lead vocalists: Jürgen Schäfer and Werner Vogt. This change in approach reflected their desire to create more accessible music while still retaining some of the experimental qualities characteristic of krautrock.

Lyricism and Themes

The lyrics for "Thoughts" were primarily written by Gerd Rübenstrunk, who was born on August 19, 1951, in Gelsenkirchen. His contributions are evident in several tracks, providing a lyrical depth to the music. The themes explored in the songs range from introspection to social commentary, evident in tracks like "King Heroin" and "Mankind, Where Do You Go To?" Each song offers a glimpse into the band's thought processes and artistic expressions during that era.

Production and Cover Art

The production of "Thoughts" reflects the innovative techniques of the early 1970s. Conny Plank, known for his work with various influential artists, played a crucial role in shaping the album's sound. The cover design was created by J.H. Löffler, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the album. This visual representation complements the music and encapsulates the creative spirit of the band during this period.

Release and Format

"Thoughts" was released in vinyl LP format, adhering to the standard of the time. The album's distribution through Pilz helped it reach a wider audience, allowing fans of krautrock and progressive rock to explore the sounds of Virus. The vinyl format was particularly significant, as it offered a tangible experience for listeners, who could appreciate the artistry both sonically and visually.

Virus's "Thoughts" was recorded at Star Studio Hamburg in 1971.