EINSJÄGER & SIEBENJÄGER

Fifth Popol Vuh album and their third in Florian Fricke's series of ethnic flavored spiritual musings. There are almost no vocals this time and the material has a more energetic feel. Still, don't expect rock 'n' roll as the musical pattern of textured clean guitars, pastoral feelings and religious atmosphere has remained largely unchanged.

Einsjäger & Siebenjäger consists of mostly acoustic music with a relaxed pastoral feel that will remind many listeners of Oldfield's Tubular Bells, but of course Fricke was the true pioneer. While I miss a certain highlight I do find the album to be very consistent and a mark-up compared to the preceding Seligpreising, though that may solely have to do with my disappointment with the vocals on that album.

The first half of the album is truly stunning, very diverse, dynamic and intricate. It has immediate appeal but also continues to reveal more depth with each listen. The percussive drumming give the songs a drive that was missing from previous albums. The second half of the album is consumed by the 19.30 minute title track. It's a scenic piece consisting of multiple short sketches that are strung together. Some parts feature angelic female vocals. Compared to the shorter tracks that preceded, it takes a bit more effort to appreciate it, and it kind of loses steam by the end. But it's sure worth the effort.

It looks as if Popol Vuh was getting increasingly comfortable with their new formula, and indeed, more excellent albums would follow. 3.5 stars