ROCKPOMMEL'S LAND

A suprising album if you were following Grobshnitt back in the seventies album by album. They really pull a rabbit out of a hat on this one. One of the most beautiful prog albums of all time as Grobshnitt abanons it`sillines and presents their most ambitious work.

Fantasy abounds on Rockpommel`s Land. A mystical bird takes an orphaned boy under it`s wing and brings him to a magical land, Rockpommel`s Land. The lyrics coud have even been reworked into a children`s book, so don`t expect a Solar Music Live here! ( although the band invites the listener to play RL loud on the liner notes!).

The music which appropriately complements the story is the most delicate to be heard from this legendary German musical troupe. It might take a few listens to gain an appreciation for Rockpommel`s Land, especially for those who are familiar with previous 70`s Grobshnitt offerings. The record is just so magical and dreamy. Anywhere is probably the most beautiful prog song this reviewer has ever heard and can also be heard played live by the final Grobshnitt incarnation on The Last Party Live album. The CD remastered version features a bonus track which wouldn`t fit on the original vinyl cut.

The cover art appropriately compliments the story and as this reviewer is from the stone age an original German pressing is recommended if you can find one. 5½ stars for this masterwork.