Popol Vuh - Spirit of Peace (1985)

Previously on OPIUM HUM:
Popol Vuh - In Den Gärten Pharaos (1971)

The music of Popol Vuh is a window to the limitless sorrow and joy of the universe. I'm not a religious man, but if I were, Popol Vuh would provide my spirituals. Spirit of Peace consists of four tracks: one stark piece for solo piano ("Spirit of Peace") and three gorgeous pieces that prominently feature choral vocals, two of which have guitar and piano accompaniment.

Track listing:
1. We Know About the Need
2. Spirit of Peace
3. Song of the Earth
4. Take the Tension High

Why do I still sleep?

Popol Vuh - In Den Gärten Pharaos (1971)

Popol Vuh's second album, In Den Gärten Pharaos is more intensely psychedelic than the soothing, ambient, Eastern-heavy sounds that they came to be known for. Originally comprised of just two songs, this reissue includes two additional bonus tracks. The title track has a (no surprises here) meditative quality, and is made up of queazy synths and organs, and propulsive hand drumming. "Vuh," the second song, is a breathtaking, dramatic piece that centers on elongated, minor key organ chords, and weaves a rich musical tapestry with choral samples, cymbal washes, understated percussion, and synthesizers. I believe that the two bonus tracks, both synth compositions, are the work of Florian Fricke alone, and while they lack the bracing impact of the original two pieces, they're certainly welcome here. Essential listening for any fan of experimental, psychedelic music.

Track listing:
1. In Den Gärten Pharaos
2. Vuh
3. Kha-White Structures 1
4. Kha-White Structures 2

Brothers of darkness, sons of light