SCHIZOPHRENIA

It just needs only a few words to explain what I like so much about the new Shamall "Schizophrenia". First of all, it is a high-quality production, in which the musical and technical realization of the theme as well as the cover design and content is more than excellent. The exceptionally good sound of this musical work has already been mentioned in other reviews here. The music has a very special character, which in no way tries to lean on anyone else today. All protagonists, and here I would like to mention not only the initiator of the project, the German multi-instrumentalist Norbert Krüler, do a very professional job. Especially Shamall's long-time companion - guitarist Matthias Mehrtens - shows once again how his guitar playing can strengthen songs in most different facets. Also female singer Anke Ullrich, who does extraordinary things with her voice in three songs which apparently were written especially for her, knows how to convince. A trio that perfectly complements each other and provides the necessary variety without endangering the harmony of the whole. Lovingly elaborated, the comprehensive work of these two CDs accompanies me on a harmonically and melodically exciting journey. Contrary to the trend, Shamall does not care about the length of a song or even the duration of a solo. With the heart of a Rick Wright he plays everything he likes on his keys. In every imaginable length. If you like casual, fresh compositions with the taste of a time travel through 40 years of prog/rock and electronic music, and if you don't have a problem with long albums, you won't get passed this work. "Schizophrenia" is not an "I have to deliver" album. Shamall has been working on this album for six years. So it's not hard for me to listen to his work for 150 minutes to honour it. - And this for weeks with growing enthusiasm.