PHALLOBST

This was recorded in Dieter Dierks studio so it's much more polished than their debut which was recorded live in another studio. Unfortunately Dieter's studio was under construction so it made for a difficult week for the band. On top of that the label was trying to convince Krause the guitarist / vocalsit for the band to go solo, saying he could be the German version Neil Young. This was all done behind the band's back and Krause was very irritated about this. Another problem was the final track "I'm On My Way", the band had already rejected a version of it that the label wanted to release, but instead of honouring the band's wishes they released it anyway. The band didn't know about it until the final product was revealed.There were also other headaches for the band regarding the label that I won't get into. I should also mention a second lead guitarist was added for this release.

"Closing Time" features laid back vocals in this mid paced tune and when he stops singing before 1 1/2 minutes the tempo picks up and we get an all instrumental soundscape right to the end. "Wenn Schon, Denn Scon" is an instrumental. I like the intro especially the bass. It settles after a minute with dual acoustic guitars. Nice. It kicks back in before 3 minutes to the original melody. "Schupfner" kicks in before a minute with flute. It settles again with some intricate acoustic guitar. "Waste Land" features acoustic guitar and flute as reserved vocals arrive a minute in. Percussion follows in this melancholic track.

"Makrojel" is an impressive track and one of my favs. It's brighter and uptempo with flute. "Prickel Pit" has some good bottom end to it early. Guitar takes the lead after 1 1/2 minutes then flute joins in. Love the sound before 3 minutes. "Portland Town" opens with some mellotron and the song continues to drift along with mellow vocals. Cool song. "I'm On My Way" opens with acoustic guitar and vocals. I'm reminded of Jim Morrison as he sings on this track for some reason. Mellotron comes in later.

I do like the debut more, but this is worth the 4 stars.