NINE LIVES

The Finnish band Von Hertzen Brothers' fifth record from this years is well produced and quite different music, yet rather commercial and mostly good. "Nine lives" is the name and on the cover we can behold nine tiger faces in different colours. The line-up is Mikko von Hertzen (voice, guitar), Kie von Hertzen(guitar, voice), Jonne von Hertzen(bass, guitar), Mikko Kaakkuriniemi(drums) and Juha Kuoppala(keyboards). A half year after its release I heard the record twice and I find it enjoyable.

I think von Hertzen Brothers have their best times when they're fast and poppy and sing together. The first track is also the best: "Insomniac" is such a track, very catchy but also strong, with powerful melody, harmonies and instruments(8/10). Then comes the clamping dashing "Flowers and rust" (6/10) and "Coming home" where you'd find "normal" rock moments and a nice guitar in the background(6/10). "Lost in time" is inferior, when I really like the musical background I find the vocals and the melody annoying(5/10). "Separate forevers"(3/10) would I not recommend, I can't say anything else than it's boring. "One may never know" is little better but to caotic for me(4/10). Then it becomes better again: "World without" is a long track with competent harmony singers and the song developped to power and style(6/10). "Black Heart's Cry" is the albums second best track(7/10) and such as the first this is fast and has the popular touch. Before they started sing I also got a folky feeling. Then the album concludes with "Prospect for escape" which is not a favourite(5/10), but too long.

I like some of the songs and it's enough for three stars. What the band does seems rather unique and I am happy I explored this record. But it can surely never be a favourite, it's too radio minded for me. Perhaps I also think it's too modern and catchy. This record has, just like the newest Moon Safari record very easy acquired music and that would appeal to some, not really to me. My rating= 2,78 = 3 stars.