Album Review: God Is Love / Anna Lou Bagimbel by Lucifer (1969)
Released in 1969 on Nico Records, God Is Love / Anna Lou Bagimbel by Lucifer is a hidden gem that blends rock grit with soulful funk vibes. This US-made record might not have hit the mainstream charts, but it’s got enough character to stick in your head long after the needle lifts off the vinyl.
Let’s talk tracks. First up, “God Is Love.” It’s one of those songs where the groove grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. The bassline is funky as hell—tight yet loose, like it’s daring you to sit still. Paired with raw, raspy vocals, it feels like a sermon for the rebellious. You can hear the late '60s energy bleeding through every note, a mix of rebellion and hope. It’s the kind of track that makes you wanna crank the volume and shout along, even if you’re just stuck in traffic.
Then there’s “Anna Lou Bagimbel.” Don’t ask me what the title means—I’m clueless too—but damn, does it deliver. The guitar riffs are sharp, almost biting, but they blend perfectly with this dreamy, almost psychedelic vibe. There’s something hypnotic about how the rhythm builds and drops, keeping you hooked. It’s not perfect—it has this rough-around-the-edges charm that screams DIY studio work—but honestly, that’s what makes it memorable.
Lucifer might not be a household name, but this album shows they had chops. Sure, it’s a little messy at times, but isn’t that what rock and soul are all about? Imperfection with heart.
Here’s the kicker: listening to this album feels like finding an old Polaroid in your grandparents’ attic. It’s faded, maybe a little dusty, but it tells a story you can’t ignore. Makes you wonder how many other forgotten records from the '60s are out there, waiting to be rediscovered.
