Metropolis-Metropolis (1974)

In the spirit of krautrock and steeped in the authentic psychedelic sound of late 1960s America, Metropolis crafted a single album, combining diverse styles such as folk, theatrical vocals, and classic progressive elements. Formed by former Agitation Free member Michael Duwe (guitar and vocals), former Mythos member Thomas Hilderbarnd (drums), and former Ash Ra Tempel member Michael Westphal (bass and backing vocals), this German band's only recording was made in Munich in 1973 and released early the following year. The album also features vocalist Ute Kannenberg, keyboardist Michael Westphal, and guitarist and backing vocalist Helmut Binzer, among other musicians who contribute instruments such as oboe and flutes. The brass and string arrangements, the almost operatic vocals, and the grand Mellotron keyboards are the highlights of this magnificent album, resulting in a highly original and uplifting piece of music. The uplifting "Birth" opens an album that, from its very first notes, foreshadows an edifying musical adventure. The psychedelic "Metropolis" perfectly complements this sense of originality, which contrasts with the semi-operatic "Superplastikclub", followed by the complex "Dreamweaver" and the atmospheric, Hispanic-influenced "Glass Roofed Courts", culminating in the galloping progressive "Ecliptic". After this single release, Metropolis disbanded, with most of its members joining other prominent German bands of the time.