Tangerine Dream

Introduction to Electronic Meditation

Tangerine Dream's debut album, Electronic Meditation, was released in June 1970 by the German label Ohr. This album, catalog number OMM 56.004, was recorded in October 1969 in a rented factory space in Berlin. It features an experimental blend of electronic music, rock, and Krautrock, marking the beginning of the band's exploration into avant-garde soundscapes.

Recording Techniques

The album was recorded using a two-track Revox tape recorder. Unlike their later works that incorporated sequencer synthesizers, the band employed traditional instruments. Edgar Froese played both 6-string and 12-string guitars, as well as organ and piano. Conrad Schnitzler contributed cello, violin, guitar, and a custom electronic device known as the addiator. Klaus Schulze, credited as Claus Schultze, played drums alongside unconventional sound sources such as metal rods, a whip, and burning parchment.

Sound and Composition

Electronic Meditation features five distinct tracks. The album opens with "Geburt (Genesis)" and progresses into the 13-minute centerpiece "Reise Durch Ein Brennendes Gehirn (Journey Through A Burning Brain)". This track exemplifies the album's free-form structure and experimental ethos. Other tracks like "Kalter Rauch (Cold Smoke)" and "Asche Zu Asche (Ashes To Ashes)" further explore varying textures and sound manipulations. The album concludes with "Auferstehung (Resurrection)", which incorporates backward vocals, adding to the overall experimental nature.

Guest Contributions and Production

While the main trio of Froese, Schnitzler, and Schulze formed the core of the album, uncredited guest artists also contributed. Organist Jimmy Jackson and flutist Thomas Keyserling provided additional layers to the sound. Rolf-Ulrich Kaiser served as the executive producer for Ohr, helping to bring this avant-garde project to fruition. The liner notes were written by Hans-Ulrich Weigel, adding context to the album's innovative approach.

Conclusion

Electronic Meditation is a seminal work that laid the groundwork for Tangerine Dream's future explorations in electronic music. The album was recorded in a factory space in Berlin.