Various Artists - 'CAMBODIA ROCKS' Vol 1 and Vol 2 Press release and reviews

Remember the Cambodian Rocks comp? I bet you do. Well here's finally vol 1 and 2 of a legit Cambodian compilation series. Unlike the bootleg these features info on the artists and photos etc. Lemme tell you these fantastic 17 tracks comps are must haves for everybody! Incredible recordings from the late 60s, early 70s Cambodian rock scene range from mad garage-band rave-ups to mystic go-go organ/fuzz guitar, with exotic female singers. Extremely sensual and emotionally. These late-60's/early 70's era songs have a sound that's completely inexplicable despite the use of standard rock instrumentation and song structures. Apparently, it seems that up until 1970 in Cambodian history, the ruling Prince had been able to hold together all the different political factions. This allowed for a blossoming night club scene in the urban areas and loads of bar bands, some of which found there way onto these CDs and all of these groups combine a fascinating and primal version of rock n roll, surf, r 'n' b - sometimes all in one song. Finally, in 1970 - the problems in neighboring Vietnam leaked over into Cambodia and eventually a rebelling communist group called the Khymer Rouge took over the regime, squelching any other exploration of western rock n' roll. What we are left with is a fantastic glimpse into that part of the world for a scant amount of years when freedom reigned supreme.

(Taken from Goner-records.com) 'Cambodian Rocks' CD (Parallel World) Parallel World is right... American garage/60s sounds as filtered through the Cambodian boogie brain... and it works. The back cover claims you'll here echoes of Janis, Jimi, and Them... well, there is an insane version of "Gloria", but I'd say it owes more to echo and instant cover tradition than a young Van Morrison. Most of this is driving beat with exotic echoed vocals (ala Indian Bollywood production) plus fuzz guitars. No real dopey loser anthems... these bands were playing to win. Accumulated on cassettes during an extended trip through the country in the 60s. Great.