Having already delved into Sjunne Ferger’s back-catalogue with Childrens Mind, Strangelove returns to reissue his magnum opus: the debut LP Mindgames. Eluding a simple genre tag, the music here is a synthesis of jazz, new wave and the more sophisticated strains of contemporary pop music, coming together in what Ferger dubbed “Polymood Music”.
Meeting Don Cherry and learning about Cherry’s personal, pan-stylistic “Organic Music” proved to be a pivotal encounter for Ferger, who went on to play in jazz groups and hone in on his production skills. His studio sorcery bolstered his own productions, which became an outlet for his experimentation, including the estimable Mindgames. Originally released in 1984, the reissue sees a sensitive remaster that is attuned to Ferger’s work with early digital recording technology.
‘Controller’ is the album’s second track, following the stunning opener ‘Reality’. It’s a subtly psychedelic ballad, with the rippling rhythm guitar part anchoring the guitar heroics and existentialist lyrics. Set the controls for the heart of the sun!
Mindgames is out now on Strangelove.
