You (Radio Gnome Invisible, Pt. 3)

by David Ross SmithConveying more advice from AP H.P., You emerges thematically as the third part in the Radio Gnome Invisible series, though not titled as such. Overall a fair release, the album seems somewhat poorly planned and insubstantial, with brief tunes punctuated by several long jams. Guitarist Steve Hillage's role in Gong had become quite prominent, to the point of overshadowing founding member Daevid Allen. You marks Allen's last stand with the band, at least until his quasi-return many years later. The album opens with three light, ethereal pieces. Among the short tunes, "Perfect Mystery" is the standout, a fun but very advanced jazz-oriented composition. The lengthy, epic-like structures on the album are generally solid (though at times uninspired), jazz-tinged progressive rockers, with the instrumental "Isle of Everywhere" taking top billing. Each piece features Pierre Moerlen's hot percussion, and each bandmember steps up front at one time or another. The awkward moments occur in the final cut, the jazzy "You Never Blow Yr Trip Forever." At times early in the song Allen's vocal presentation and lyrics seem at odds with music which dares to outdate him, making some of the most progressive music on the recording.