These guys are one of the most prolific bands around – having released over 30 albums since their inception back in ’83. The first six albums were released on cassette only, so this album is the 3rd proper release in ’91. Musically, they are a very diverse band, ranging from the early fusion/psych, to prog/space rock, and then to more electronic/ambient/trance of their more modern releases. The only constant member throughout their career is founder/guitarist, Ed Wynne. A great player and one of the great unsung guitar heroes.
Opening track, White Rhino Tea, is a lesson in great British fusion. Great playing from all musicians with some serious grooves being put down. The Ed Wynne penned, Sploosh, is next and it has a very hypnotic trance like groove. Saucers starts with a classical guitar and then the keys kick in and we are in ambient groove heaven. If you want music to totally relax and groove to, then you should invest immediately.
Side 2 starts with the title track, Strangeitude, and it begins with a very middle eastern vibe until the stop start keyboards give way to more hypnotic grooves. A very trippy track that just makes you want to move. The middle eastern feel continues with Bizarre Bazaar, but this time the groove is heavier and faster with some fantastic guitar. I assume Soft Machine, and Weather Report were influences of the band as I can hear the similarities. Last track, Space Between Your Ears, starts off dub/reggae style before we enter into the more chill out grooves. There is no other band like the Ozrics, and they consistently put out great instrumental records. Definitely one of the world’s best kept secrets, and I love them.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
