The Swiss progressive rock band, comprising five highly talented musicians, was formed in Basel in 1970 and named itself Ertlif, after a legendary medieval alchemist. At the time of recording their debut album, this „supergroup“ consisted of Danny Andrey (lead & acoustic guitar), Richard John Rusinski (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), James Mosberger (organ, Mellotron, piano), Teddy Riedo (bass) and Hans-Peter „Bölle“ Börlin (percussion). As they played only their own compositions at their concerts – where they were the first Swiss band to use a Mellotron and synthesiser – they had enough tried-and-tested material for an LP.

They recorded their first self-titled, self-produced album over three days in August 1972 at Sinus Studio in Bern. It was released in October on Tell Record and features powerful psychedelic hard rock with progressive elements, perfectly arranged and played with virtuosity. Improvisations featuring both psychedelic and dreamy elements alternate with rock-driven interludes. The two lead guitarists and the rich Hammond organ harmonise superbly with one another and, together with the strong rhythm section, create the unmistakable Ertlif sound.

Despite positive reviews, TV appearances and several successful promotional tours – which soon saw them rise to become one of the country’s leading bands – various line-up changes gradually took place from 1973 onwards, ultimately leading to the band’s break-up in 1978. Their only release on the little Tell record label is now a sought after rarity.