LIFE CYCLE

Some time ago a dutch friend brought me a four track demo recording of a new band called Kramer, among some other little known european acts. I was impressed enough by this band from Holland to look for their full CD as soon as I heard it was available. Fortunatly, I found it was no fluke. Life Cycle is a very strong debut in any way you look at it: impeccable perfomances of all involved, strong and mature songwriting, tasteful arrangements and even a quite fitting production.

This concept album is very ambitious, specially if you have in mind that it is only their first work. But they pulled it off very well! In fact, Kramer released an album that many other more seasoned bands with 3 or 4 CDs under their belts could only dream of making it. Their mix of symphonic prog and neo is quite original and hard to compare with other groups. The overall sound is melodic and familiar, and yet they have their very own sound and personality (something really hard to achieve, much harder on their debut!). The CD is in fact a long suite with many different swings and moods that takes you to a musical trip any prog fan will love to hear. It is over 70 minutes and it dind´t bore me a second!

Even if I enjoyed the album from start to finish, the CD´s highlights for me are the all on the middle part. Songs like the ethereal Escaping Into A Dream, the poignant A Farewell and the 11 minute epic We Mortals are some of the best prog songs I´ve heard in a long time, all varied, with creative arrangements and very well crafted. Marc Besselink´s voice may not be terrific compared to other more technical prog singers, but he more than compensates his limitations with a passion and conviction that makes his interpretations quite unique and emotional. I also have to point out Rob de Jong´s excellent guitar work throughout the Cd, even if the whole band does a great job at the instrumental department.

I can´t call this album a masterpiece right now - even if i´m tempted to - because I think they will probably evolve even more in the near future. But Song Cycle is a remarkable CD in all aspects. A very strong and convincing debut that will surely please anyone who likes elaborated and melodic music. I´m looking forward to hear their next release. Rating: 4,5 stars. Highly recommmended!