Pergamon is the Live recorded album by the German Krautrock Prog Rock band "TANGERINE DREAM". Recorded Live in East-Berlin on 31st January 1980 by the National Broadcasting System of the GDR. Supervisor Joerg Lahrtz. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.
Released in 1980, "Pergamon – Live at the 'Palast der Republik' GDR" captures a historic concert by Tangerine Dream in East Berlin during the height of the Cold War. This live album not only showcases the band's musical evolution but also serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend political boundaries.
Historical Context
In January 1980, Tangerine Dream became the first major Western band to perform in the German Democratic Republic (GDR), also known as East Germany. The concert took place at the Palast der Republik, a prominent cultural venue in East Berlin. At the time, Germany was divided by the Berlin Wall, and cultural exchange between East and West was limited. The band's decision to perform in East Berlin was a significant event, both musically and politically.
Musical Exploration
"Pergamon" is a testament to Tangerine Dream's mastery of live electronic improvisation. The album features extended versions of two compositions, "Quichotte Part I" and "Quichotte Part II," which showcase the band's ability to create vast sonic landscapes and mesmerizing rhythmic patterns.
The album highlights the band's use of synthesizers, sequencers, and electronic percussion to create a dynamic and immersive sonic experience. The live setting allowed for a greater sense of spontaneity and improvisation, with the band responding to the energy of the audience and the unique atmosphere of the venue.
Controversies and Challenges
The concert was not without its challenges. The band faced logistical difficulties and potential censorship due to the political climate in East Germany at the time. However, they persevered, and the concert ultimately served as a bridge between East and West, demonstrating the power of music to connect people across political divides.
Venue and Band Members
The Palast der Republik, a symbol of East German political and cultural life, served as the backdrop for this historic concert. The venue's grand architecture and acoustics added another dimension to the band's performance.
The core members of Tangerine Dream during this period were Edgar Froese, Christopher Franke, and Johannes Schmoelling. Notably, this marked Schmoelling's first appearance on a Tangerine Dream album, signaling a new era for the band's sound and lineup.
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Music Genre: Krautrock Prog Psych Acid Ambient |
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Collector's info: Recorded Live in East-Berlin on 31st January 1980 by the National Broadcasting System of the GDR. Supervisor Joerg Lahrtz |
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Album Production: Produced by Franke, Froese, Schmoeling. Re-mixed and mastered at the Tangerine Dream Studio West-Berlin. |
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Record Label Information: Virgin Records 207 684 (207684) / Tadream Productions |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone |
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Year & Country: 1980-1986 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Tangerine Dream Pergamon Live at the 'Palast der Republik' GDR |
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Track Listing of: Tangerine Dream Pergamon Live at the 'Palast der Republik' GDR |
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"Pergamon Live" Record Label Details: Green Colour VIRGIN 207 684
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