How quickly the time goes sometimes. No whole two years have passed since that ASP published the first part ("foreign") the stranger cycle. And now it is already in our midst; the long-awaited continuation of the Gothic novel.
And already at the sight of the new album is undoubtedly clear: the wait was more than worth it!
That ASP much passion, an endless amount of passion and also a lot of love for art, for music (and even a fan!) Into their work should be well known. But what Mastermind Asp and Artwork Genius Timo Wurz (alone is the appearance on) brought out from this plate, you just have to have seen. Regarding the size of the work can even Earbook "The complete Black Butterfly cycle" 'old' look. Initially - when viewing the package - I almost bet that you have accidentally sent me the vinyl version of the album. But I was quickly disabused.
There she was in front of me; this true revelation for the discerning ASP fan. First to mention would be of course the hand-numbered certificate of authenticity, signed by Timo Wurz and Asp himself. This certificate looks so noble that a short of breath able to falter. Madness.
At once it goes on with the first (!) ASP wall calendar that has ever existed. And this is not limited to the coming 2014 - oh no! He takes us with beautiful pictures and quotes from new and older ASP songs by the 2nd half of the current year. Very big compliment!
Next, I would like to address the aforementioned artwork. Here is a true work of art is presented and to get the latest now being amazed not get out. In addition to (alp) dreamlike pictures / images you will in this Earbook also a very interesting foreword by author Kai Meyer, as well as previously unpublished poems by Asp (which, of course, a lyrical delectation are) and of course the lyrics to album find. In further details about the artwork I do not want to indulge me. You have to see for yourself, they experience themselves. Only then you will know how to be assessed accordingly.
But now I come to the heart of it all: the music.
The Ultimate Edition of this work there are 3 CD's. Firstly, the relief-mix of the album, which is particularly suitable for playing in the home stereo system. Secondly, the poster-mixing, for example, in portable devices (MP3 player, iPod, etc.) is used.
(At this point, a very big "Chapeau!" To Asp and his men this bold step today to cart [and even as indie band!] I feel phenomenal And once again it is clear!. ASP is a formation for those people who are of true art even more than just a fleeting glance apathetic pay).
The third and final CD finally home to a high-quality selection of remixes and (what particularly pleased me) a cover of the song "The creature with the steely mask" by no less than tape Samsas dream! The Käfer.König Alexander Kaschte are personally honored and directed the gentle listener with his acoustic cover downright gently from the album. Excellent!
The individual songs, I do not want to devote myself in this review, however. True Like the artwork here: you have to listen to the pieces themselves and experience. Such feelings can be expressed much better by emotions than words ever even this would be able.
All I want to say is this: The "stranger-cycle" makes here again to its name. Also I have once again felt quite strange at first hearing of the panel. Although most of the songs have a very catchy (meant positively!), The spark was first not really skip.
BUT: For ASP songs are often just. They mature like a good and noble wine, until they finally and ultimately develop their full beauty. Meanwhile, I have already heard the album by 9 or 10 times. And it really is true: the songs fit each time a better! You have (which, unfortunately, in this day and age almost regarded as luxury goods) shall, for each of the eleven pictures only time and patience. Only then sinking can really succeed.
Conclusion. My enthusiasm for the present work it is difficult to put into words. Whether a high proportion of eloquence exists. ASP are back and they are more varied, deep and (other) better than ever! Could you give the album 10 stars, I would hesitate a single second.
I'm really looking forward to the live concerts in Oberhausen (possibly also in Cologne) and at the M'era Luna.
Like ASP remain with us for a very long time. You are infinitely precious in the national and international music scene. From other senseless and meaningless bullshit you will already more trashed than enough.
Thank ASP & Team, for this grandiose masterpiece. Please stay as you are and you will not strange! ;)
(Review written by Tim vetch)
