Zerfas

Zerfas, an obscure outfit from Indianapolis, issued a solitary album under their own auspices during 1973. Like numerous privately distributed efforts from that period, the recording arrived stylistically delayed, channeling the closing phase of psychedelia. Judged against comparable limited-run pressings, however, the disc stood well above the norm. Its strongest original compositions carried audible traces of the late-period Beatles alongside Beatles-derived groups such as Badfinger and the Move. The band diverged from many peers in that vein by incorporating reversed tapes, blurred and wavering tones, and a majestic keyboard approach reminiscent of early British progressive rock. While weaker tracks lacked appeal, the overall production values, vocal blends, and compact arrangements reflected greater deliberation and polish than typical small-scale releases. ~ Richie Unterberger