vinegar

Originally released as a small private pressing in 1971, Vinegar’s only album is a distinctive piece of German underground psychedelia. The Cologne group builds its sound from organ, electric guitar, violin, flute and a flexible rhythm section, allowing the music to move between carefully composed themes and loose instrumental exploration.

The extended “Missi Solis” opens with a dark, spacious atmosphere before unfolding through changing vocal and instrumental sections. “Sawmill” is divided across two parts and develops from organ-driven psychedelic rock into freer ensemble interplay, while the three-section “Der Kaiser auf der Erbse” mixes dramatic violin, heavy rhythms and eccentric German vocals. The closing “Fleisch” brings the album to a powerful conclusion through solemn organ motifs and expressive guitar work. This Garden of Delights edition was mastered from the original tapes.

Track listing

1. Missi Solis – 12:15
2. Sawmill – Teil I – 5:22
3. Sawmill – Teil II – 5:05
4. Der Kaiser auf der Erbse (Caesar Supra Ciceronem) – 7:04
   • Des Kaisers süßer Schlummer
   • Des Kaisers böser Traum
   • Des Kaisers Zinnensturz
5. Fleisch – 7:04

Official CD reissue mastered from the original tapes

Original release: 1971