CRIME SCENE

With their eighth studio longplayer 'Crime Scene', Bavarian neo-prog veterans RPWL take a deep dive into the realm of true crime and explore various fascinating cases through the carefully-forged lyrics of frontman Yogi Lang - the band explore the eternal debate between good and evil on an album that is above all else, atmospheric and expansive, varied and eclectic, containing all the signature elements of the art rock institution that this band is. And while the concept behind this excellent album might seem rather morbid, it is the gorgeous way in which RPWL interpret the stories of characters like Carl Tanzler or Karl Denke, weaving all throughout their magical music and sweeping passages of elegance and technique. With just six tracks in rotation, 'Crime Scene' is an incredibly focused effort that allows each band member to showcase their strengths, also serving as the formal introduction of newcoming bass player Markus Grützner.

And this captivating, eerie and atmospheric album starts off with 'Victim of Desire', a well-composed song offering an interesting variation to the RPWL formula, all the subtle shifts within it are rather pleasing and rewarding, followed by the "love song" that is 'Red Rose', a hauntingly beautiful track that resonates with the listener long after the music has ceased to play. 'A Cold Spring Day In '22' is shorter but no less substantial than the rest of the album, a livelier number with a memorable chorus and great harmonies. 'Life in a Cage', on the other hand, is a moody excursion with some great synths and a menacing but interesting use of vocal effects, a surprising and welcome number on the album, followed by the 13-minute centerpiece 'King of the World', the more virtuosic and adventurous composition from the bunch. The fuzz guitars of the closing track and its uplifting and hopeful tones allow this record to end on a high note, all while Lang's great singing voice is on full display. Just an excellent concept record from one of the masters of the art rock scene, carefully conceived and excellently executed work of greatness.

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