The gently trippy vibe of East Coast psych served as the inspiration for Floral Image’s debut album. Shaped on tour and refined in the studio, Gone Down Meadowland (Fuzz Club) is a cohesive piece of work—pure psychedelia, mostly dreamy and playful.
Much of the record feels almost hypnotic, lulling the listener into a soft haze. Thankfully, Floral Image know how to turn things up when needed. The Brits are at their best when they rock, as on the frantic, fraying “Burning 305.”
With “Tiergarten,” they weave in krautrock elements and carry them through the even wilder “Howling Dog Song.” These bursts of energy provide welcome variation—without them, the album might drag.
There’s also a hint of jam-band spirit, especially on the closing track “Sun For Hire,” born from an original 30-minute session and showcasing several of the band’s strengths. Still, there’s a noticeable lack of punch overall.
Floral Image – Gone Down Meadowland: A rather tame take on East Coast psych. – RIFL