Guru Guru

Release Overview

Guru Guru's second studio album, titled Hin­ten, was released in 1971 under the Ohr label. This German trio is known for their contributions to the Krautrock and space rock genres. The album, catalog number OMM 556.017, was recorded in July 1971 at Star-Produktion in Hamburg. The band produced the album themselves, while Conny Plank served as the sound engineer and G. F. Pfanz handled the mastering.

Musical Composition

Hin­ten features four extended tracks that explore the band's signature style of psychedelic acid rock and improvisation. The album opens with "Electric Junk," an 11-minute piece that combines heavy guitar riffs and radio noise. It exhibits shifting tempos, creating a dynamic listening experience. This is followed by "The Meaning Of Meaning," a 12-minute composition that delves into cosmic themes through its soundscapes.

On the second side, the band presents "Bo Diddley," an avant-garde reinterpretation of traditional rock 'n' roll, lasting 10 minutes. This track showcases Guru Guru's ability to deconstruct familiar musical forms. The album closes with "Space Ship," an 11-minute journey through space rock, further emphasizing the band's exploration of sound and rhythm.

Band Members and Contributions

The lineup for Hin­ten includes Mani Neumeier on drums, electric drums, and kalimba, along with guitar and vocal contributions from Ax Genrich. Uli Trepte plays bass and adds radio effects, while all members take on roles in composition and production. This collaborative effort is evident in the album's diverse sound and intricate arrangements.

Artwork and Presentation

The cover artwork for the album was created by Heinz Dofflein and the band itself. Harlan Feltus contributed photography, adding a visual element that complements the album's experimental nature. The packaging reflects the creative ethos of the 1970s German music scene, which sought to push boundaries in both sound and visual presentation.

Technical Details

The album was released in a vinyl LP format, typical for music of its era. The total length of the album allows for extended musical exploration, which was a hallmark of the Krautrock movement. The production quality, managed by Conny Plank, is a crucial factor in the album's sound, providing clarity to the complex layers of instrumentation.

Hin­ten was released in 1971 and features the track "Electric Junk."