THE HIGH FRONTIER

LUMERIANS stick up with their new album 'The High Frontier' in spring 2013. This appears in the tradition of the 2010 effort named 'Transmallinia', which means the seven songs are coming less improvised overall. So they've concentrated on song writing again, featuring clear structures and more catchy melodies as for my impression. Guitars and synths are equally appointed, though not within every track as such. What stays is the clear affinity to krautrock, predominanty to be manifested by the rhythm section, which - obviously with intent - often loops and works typically monotonic, accompanied by a slight deep-toned industrial touch.

Due to bass line, vocals and the global drive the synthesizer dominated opener Dogon Genesis reminds me of UK act New Order in some way. The title track follows immediately ... hey, don't know how they make it ... this is presented in a somewhat swinging mood. While contrasting with the industrial kraut flair this constitutes the band's special sound and attraction basically, I would say. In between they turn into another drive which guarantees more variety. An outstanding sample for sure. With more than seven minutes the longest track here, and more from the improv side of life, the gripping Smokies Tangle attracts my attention especially. Well, this comes like psychedelic/space dominated krautrock should sound like, wonderful.

Life Without Skin opens in a somewhat chanson mood due to a mysterious female voice, whispering a message in French, soon switches into other different outfits though, just like a chameleon so to say. The hypnotic Abudhabijhab in the end shows some Arabian influence as the title implies. While showcasing psychedelic, space, kraut and some synthy new wave ingredients. LUMERIANS unique sound is comprised of an interesting attractive mix, which they surely have refined during recent years. Thus 'The High Frontier' is another recommended album offered by this outstanding band.