REINCARNATION ON STAGE

Have to regret now, obviously I missed the train while ignoring their live tour in 2012/13. Maybe for the reason that I wasn't very pleased with the latest studio albums. Anyhow, this production is top-notch nevertheless, for what it's worth. This is the band's first live documentary since 1978, offered as a double CD with a running time of over 140 minutes. The cover is really great by the way, showing Frank Bornemann posing with his Venetian mask. Here we have a representative cross section reflecting more than 40 years of ELOY activity with eighteen studio releases in the back, where Frank interestingly enough has a preference on the 1980's 'Colours' album.

The track order admittedly mirrors the executed live set, the particular songs though are deriving from different occasions. So in some way you can say that this is a best-of compilation from their extended Europe tour. Without ignoring today's better sound quality most certainly, the band's clear aim was to take the audience on a time travel, while offering the original sound as accurately as possible, for example by using vintage synths and analogue guitar effects. And there's also a proper luxury to state when having two guitarists and two keyboardists capable - previously, under studio recording circumstances, solely realized with overdubs.

Something's missing now? Oh, certainly yes, Frank's distinctive voice, featuring this typical German accent, is still there too - of course a real trademark. He's in command when leading through the program with much confidence, alongside with constant compagnion 'Matze' Matziol (bass) who appears at his best on Ro Setau for example. What you can enjoy is a bunch of catchy melodic songs featuring a blend of symphonic and psychedelic ingredients, excellently supported by a female choir trio comprised of Anke Renner, Alexandra Seubert and Tina Lux. The 'Ocean' (1977) adopted excerpts like Poseidon's Creation are showing the band's atmospheric disposition at best. 'Reincarnation On Stage' is a real pleasure, not only for designated ELOY fans. And to band newbies there's no better recommendation to start with - 4.5 stars.