Terrible Lizards is the second of only two known recordings released by the Santa Cruz-based couple (M & R Curtis), who recorded under the moniker Science Fiction back in the early 1980s. This reissue is taken from their 12” vinyl and it contains a long track on each side. It is a more experimental departure in terms of composition and approach compared to their first recording, the 7” single Secret Agent Man. Analogue recordings using instruments such as the flute, kalimba, and piano are manipulated in the studio; for example, played at different speeds. Another highly recommended record.

Some extra information from the press release:

Rare Northern California Private Press Avant Gem from 1980 Reissued For The First Time And Remastered From The Original Master Tapes.

From the moment M & R Curtis met in late 1978 in Monterey, California, it was a vibrant and inspired creative era of their lives and by May ’80 had amassed what became the two Science Fiction releases, “Terrible Lizards” and “Secret Agent Man.” The result is two inimitable records both privately released in criminally limited quantities. Distribution was limited to hand delivering copies to radio stations between Monterey and San Francisco and “droplifting” them in record shops along the way. These records have become the stuff of legend, fetching insane prices from collectors and sometimes being so rare as to completely fall through the cracks of experimental and avant pop awareness.

RIYL: Stimulus Progression label releases.

FCC CLEAN!
Recommended Tracks: 1, 2

1. (23:12) *** Science Fiction – White noise analogue ambient piece created with tape loops, traditional instruments and studio manipulation. Fluctuates in sonic intensity and types of sounds.
2. (14:44) ** ...city of god – Loop of spoken work fragment played for the entire length of the recording and complemented with a long, long guitar solo a la Robert Fripp. During the last couple minutes, the vocal loop stops and the guitar stops playing notes and delivers just controlled amp feedback outbreaks in spare, random moments.