CD review RPWL "Wanted"

(9/10) German prog rockers RPWL released already a few days ago their new album called "Wanted". The five guys from Freising, Germany are an established part of the prog scene and they have in the meantime quite some excellent releases in their discography. The last one was in 2012 and was called „Beyond man and time“, which will be followed now by „Wanted“.

The best song from my perspective sits in the end of the album. "A new dawn" is the name of the tune and it's a beautiful piece of music. It's a very slow song, accoustic based with very senseful lyrics. A great closer for a excellent album which reminds a bit to a lullaby.

But let's start from the beginning. To my surprise the album starts with some electro samples. It almost feels like the introduction to the love parade, but only for the first seconds. As soon as the guitar appears the song gets its rocking colour. "Revelation" is the name of the tune, which is purely instrumental and has a strong theme. An awesome beginning of the new album. Dark and gritty we start into the second track. "Sword and guns" is the name of it and the titel gives you already the idea that it's not a love song. Eight minutes long RPWL creates soundscapes which are complex but still easy to listen to. This is generally spoken a big benefit/advantage of the band. The musicians have a big capability and use this to write demanding music by not loosing the focus on the song itself. It's not about the musicians, it's about the song and the totality of sound. I personally also like the title track. The melody which comes with the song is easy but very effective. The song sticks.  The pumping bass part towards the end gives the 'light' song an additional note. The reflecting "Hide and seek" starts accoustically before it builds up just to fall back into fragile accoustic setup. A great composition. 

Conclusion: RPWL strenghten their position as one of the best prog rock bands in Europe. An album you should name your own.

(9/10)

Tracklist:

1. Revelation
2. Swords and guns
3. A clear cut line
4. Wanted
5. Hide and seek
6. Disbelief
7. Misguided thought
8. Perfect day
9. The attack
10. A new dawn

Label: gentle art of music

Genre: Prog Metal