Search - Spirit Caravan :: Elusive Truth

Soldiered on Philosophy

Hand of Doom | The Wonderful World of Colonized Minds | 10/14/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

""The true leaders of mankind are always those who are capable of self-reflection, and who relieve the dead weight of the masses at least of their own weight, consciously holding aloof from the blind momentum of the mass in movement. But who can resist this all-engulfing force of attraction, when each man clings to the next and each drags the other with him? Only one who is firmly rooted not only in the outside world but also in the world within" ~ C.G.Jung



Espousing a message which conjures the reflective heart of the counter-culture's protest anthems["Eve of Destruction," or The Youngbloods "Get Together"]the Caravan embodied some of Wino's finest moments ..although every band he's had is secured eternal in heavy stoner music folklore. His prose can be reminiscent of been-around-the-block-a-time-or-two-Lemmy[Motorhead], or at times, much more lyrical and heartfelt in delivery ..somewhere between Poe, Black Sabbath, and Neil Young, dipped in esoteric flourishes of existentialism, theism and mysticism.



There were those who felt their sophomore effort lagged behind the truly inspired and equally inspiring debut, "Jug Fulla Sun."

It seems to work that way, and few artists can hit the same high note twice when their debut effort is so roundly applauded.

Switzerland's "Witchcraft"[NOT a ridiculous 'black metal' band]is experiencing the same reaction now; the s/t debut is a real stunner, unfairly making the follow up, "Firewood," seem weaker by contrast, even though there's plenty of good material on it.



And as it goes for Spirit Caravan's "Elusive Truth." It doesn't feel as complete as 'Jug,' doesn't have as much space, but it does contain many excellent jams. The title track alone is one of Wino's most inspired songs; a hope-filled sound/mindscape affirmation of life's eternal trials and tribulations.

The album opener[luckily Tolotta released this on groovy green vinyl]Spirit Caravan, is actually an older tune written during one of The Obsessed's earlier incarnations, and made a fitting theme for a clearly rejuvenated awakening between The Obsessed, and his latest outlet, The Hidden Hand. Wake up from your sleep!



Conventions, rejections

To being and that's perceived

Contentions, inventions

Atrophy's a pale reprieve

Tensions, injections

Passion's pain to be bereaved

Illusions, seclusions

Outlaws and castaways

Losin' confusion

Ain't no winning, ain't no pay

F**k your laws and your ways!

Predictions, diction

Why and when it was conceived

Contradictions, sorry fiction

Cast aside for victory

Caravan flies onward

Love and faith is a trusty steed!"

I would give this 8 stars

john sarnie | lajolla, california United States | 01/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"what can i say ? this is awsome heavy music. after hearing this, i bought both jug fulla sun and the ep. wino is the most creative, most prolific force in music today. if you love black sabbath or any heavy rock band,you will love this album. scotts vocal is great. the guitar playing, and songs are top notch.this is one heavy three piece. check it out.the maryland sound!"

Early 70s redux -- but with a genius modern twist

Music Expert | East Coast, USA | 08/16/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In keeping with their last two releases (which are required listening/owning by the way), SC continues with their sonic assualt. If you like early 1970s hard rock, and even the early 1990s equivilant, you are going to LOVE this album. Heavy, smart, riff ladden genius by Wino and crew. Excellent!!"