Holy Black Mountain Side by Acid Mothers Temple & The Melting Paraiso U.F.O.

The Japanese psychedelic rock underground has been on the radar of the international music scene for decades, but few groups in the community have been as prolific as Acid Mothers Temple & The Melting Paraiso U.F.O.. Having released over 100 albums since their conception in 1995, it can seem impossible to know where to start with their labyrinth of a discography. But the perfect way for new listeners to get a taste of the Acid Mothers’ experimental approach to psychedelia might be with their newest two-track release Holy Black Mountain Side. The first track begins with droning trance-inducing electronica before dissolving into a swell of acid-jazz influenced grooves with roots in traditional Japanese music. The record peaks as the second song begins as energetic guitar riffs and captivating vocal arrangements flow like waves carrying the listener further and further out into deep inner space. Both tracks are built around a complex synthesis of intricate drum patterns, cosmic synth riffs, funky basslines, and esoteric bouzouki and hurdy-gurdy accompaniments, all adding texture and flair to this far-out release with a power that only the Acid Mothers’ can harness. 

-Kalen