The Orb Album: “Baghdad Batteries: Orbsessions, Vol. 3”

The first thing this album did was make me realize how much I miss Thomas Fehlmann. After this many years, I feel like his tighter, more intricate style just goes like pb&j with Alex's looser, soulful, more dreamy style. The two together really take things to another level. I feel like this album has a little more Fehlmann than Paterson, and that was a surprise at first. I think I expected the opposite for some reason, probably since Fehlmann had been off doing his own thing for a while. I'm the last person to complain since my heart belongs to ska, rocksteady, reggae, and dub...but this album made me see what I didn't know I was wanting more of. The other surprise to me was the feeling I got with every single song. I couldn't put my finger on it at first, but finally I realized--I don't hear a climax or peak in any of the pieces. They seem to have more of a steady upper region they mildly peak at instead. Very different, even from what I'm used to from Fehlmann. At first it was disorienting, but I've really grown to like it. I gotta say...this is one unique, lovingly done, beautiful work. I love it!

Huge Orb fan here. Favorite Orb albums are live 91', Orbus Terrarum and BBC Sessions.

After reading the reviews for Baghdad Batteries, I thought I'd take a chance again after not especially liking The Dream. First impression was burned again - it sounded too soft, dull, lackluster, etc. Unfortunately IMO the tracks start slow but get better and better. I recommend starting with track 3 and going from there your first time through.

I really started liking this when I first put the good headphones on. All the classic Orb audio wizardry is here along with classically trippy, mesmerizing, humorous soundscapes. Turn it up on a good soundsystem in a comfy chair, (bong optional) chill and let the good vibes wash over. A return to form and must have for the early Orb fans. But give it a few listens with a decent setup before judging.

I've owned this for several months & listen to it about once a month. For me, I either take to an Orb album immediately or I need to listen to it a few times to get a better handle on it. This album is one that took a while to get under my belt, but I really like it. It is more ambient in nature (less hooky than say 'The Dream' ) but lovable. The track 'Raven's Reprise' is awesome.