Haymarket Square - Magic Lantern (1968)

This 2001 CD reissue of *Magic Lantern* by Chicago’s Haymarket Square represents a landmark moment in American underground psychedelic rock history. Originally recorded and released in 1968 in an extremely limited run, the music on *Magic Lantern* was crafted as part of a multimedia experience to accompany an experimental lightshow installation at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art. The result is a compelling blend of raw, fuzz‑laden guitar work, exploratory rhythms, and evocative vocals that draws from the era’s acid rock and blues‑influenced psychedelic styles. Gear Fab Records’ reissue on catalog number GF‑176 brought this once obscure LP to a broader audience, preserving the band’s historical legacy and introducing their singular sound to new listeners. *Magic Lantern* stands as a fascinating document of late 60s psych rock, combining lengthy instrumental explorations with strong melodic sensibilities and distinctive performances from the band members, particularly vocalist Gloria Lambert. The album features the full original lineup: Gloria Lambert on vocals, Marc Swenson on guitar and vocals, Robert Homa on bass and vocals, and John Kowalski on drums. This release remains essential for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage psychedelic music.

Tracklist:
1. Elevator 6:55
2. Train Kept‑a‑Rollin’ 7:15
3. Ahimsa 8:05
4. Amapola 10:30
5. Phantasmagoria 4:05
6. Funeral 9:25

Personnel:
Gloria Lambert – vocals
Marc Swenson – guitar, vocals
Robert Homa – bass, vocals
John Kowalski – drums