"Angel's Egg" is the fourth studio album by the progressive rock band Gong. Released in December 1973, this album is notably the second installment in the band's famed "Radio Gnome Invisible" trilogy, which is a central part of the Gong mythology.
The album is notable for its avant-garde style which merges progressive rock, psychedelic rock, and space rock, further attributing to the eccentricity of Gong's music. It was produced by Simon Heyworth and Gong and was released under the Virgin Records label. The band's lineup, at that time, was composed of several acclaimed musicians including Daevid Allen, Gilli Smyth, Steve Hillage, Didier Malherbe, Pierre Moerlen, Mike Howlett, and Tim Blake.
"Angel's Egg" includes compelling tracks such as "The Isle of Everywhere," "Eat That Phone Book Coda," and popular Gong track, "Ooby-Scooby Doomsday or The D-Day DJ's Got the D.D.T. Blues." These songs featured the band's unique blend of quirky storytelling, innovative soundscapes, and virtuosic musicianship.
The album also features an elaborate cover with the intricate inner sleeve featuring Daevid Allen's complex and detailed line artwork, which is visually engaging and mirrors the band's offbeat philosophy and musical eccentricity. This artistry has long been associated with the band's image and has contributed considerably to their iconic look.
The trilogy of which "Angel's Egg" is a part, presents an imaginative science fiction narrative. The loose concept within the album speaks of Zero The Hero's adventures in his journey to Planet Gong and his interaction with the Pot-Head Pixies, a narrative which ultimately speaks to themes of peace, unity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Overall, "Angel's Egg" is a significant work in Gong's discography due to its mythical narrative, innovative sound, and fittingly whimsical and engaging artworks.
