RUNNING TO PARADISE

Rather underrated (probably because it's so obscure) symphonic rock album from Germany. Sirius picked up the torch for bands like Novalis and Grobschnitt, who were rather abandoning the symphonic style for more commercial realms. But Sirius' sound is altogether more English. Genesis seems the dominant influence. The instrumental sound is dominated by keyboards, which should come as no surprise considering there are two keyboardists in the band: Stefan Neubauer (also the lead singer) and Stefan Papsthorst.

I'd compare them stylistically to England and their classic GARDEN SHED album, if only because I get the same vibe from them as far as sunny attitude and curiously antiquated lyrical content. Neubauer's chirpy voice adds to the effect. The sound is something of a bridge between the classic 70's sounds and upcoming 80's sounds, with Hammond organ, string-synth and Wurlitzer electric piano side-by-side with more modern (for 1982) Prophets and other synthesizers. The result is something that sounds classic, yet up-to-date. But it's the extravagant, classically-styled acoustic piano work that ties it all together. Guest players on violin ("The Fiddler of Dooney") and flute add to the proceedings.

All in all, a very charming release. Fans of the likes of Flame Dream, Amenophis, Anyone's Daughter, Dragonfly, Machiavel and the like will find much to enjoy here.