Psych-Religious

Edward Ka-Spel, along with Phil Knight, has been at the epicenter of the group Legendary Pink Dots since 1980. Dream Logik Part One continues his prolific run of solo releases which began in 1984. Dream Logik Part One may be weird and disturbing, but it is also very accesible and fun. Imagine if the dancing dwarf from Twin Peaks were recording whilst on a ventilator, with spiritual assistance from fellow hospital patients Dieter Meier of Yello, dub maestro Lee Perry, and Richard Butler of the Psychedelic Furs. The effect is one of journeying into a highly personal maze, populated by deep pulses and Edward Ka-Spel’s distinctive accent and rhotacism. Half-heard voices jabber, doors open and close—but there is no clear path or way out. Since it is highly idiosyncratic, the album works best if the listener can just surrender to the surreal puzzle. Aside from the over-repetitive “Revolution 834”, Dream Logik Part One is a straight-through listen. Intermittent peaks include “Backyard”, with its shifting electronic atmosphere. “And The Stars” is a gorgeous piece of darkness and nostalgia. It sounds like clocks being interrupted by a voice that seems blind, regretful and stuck in purgatory: “I have no choice, for life must go on. Now that’s what we always say isn’t it?” The second time Ka-Spel mutters the words, “Life. Must. Go. On” suggests that he can barely commit to finishing another sentence, let alone anything else. But just prior to the three minute mark, the equivalent of an electronic shock is administered, along with what might be the sound of wineglasses full of radioactive liquid being rubbed by begloved nurses. This record is odd, but is also down-to-earth and welcoming. Best of all, it’s not necessary to have heard a single note from Edward Ka-Spel or Legendary Pink Dots to appreciate the many facets of Dream Logik Part One.

• Multiple songs MySpace