Toledo, Ohio-based five-piece The Pillbugs proclaim themselves to be “the world’s most psychedelic band.” Such a statement would have been a Muhammad Ali-size boast back in 1968. Today, however, it is the sort of thing that is probably more likely met with sarcastic chuckle. At the very best, being the world’s most psychedelic band in 2007 renders you a curio, and at worst, irrelevant. Regardless, Monclovia, a best-of compilation from the band’s previous four releases, is a profoundly psychedelic album. Guitars chime, sitars weave in and out, and the vocals ride through the hallucinogenic haze. Typical references dominate: Rubber Soul-era Beatles, Smile-era Beach Boys, and Pipers at the Gates of Dawn Pink Floyd. As for the tunes, “Hold Me So Near” is delicate, harmony-filled pop, “Alluring Martha” features symphonic strings, and “Make like Arthur Lee” sneaks in some Southern rock slide guitar. But if you really like psych, check out the über-trippy “King of Zorg,” about a monarch who “always wears a fuzzy robe of rat,” has “frogmen marching all around him,” and “drums with four large sticks upon his face.” The listener is implored, “Come and we can go fishing with the king of zorg.” Indeed.
--Frank Valish
