ODDITIES

German band Schizofrantik had been around since the 90's, before becoming known a decade later.The group, leader of which is composer, guitarist and singer Martin Mayrhofer, started its journey from Munich in the second half of the 90's, self-producing three albums, ''Art outrage'' (1998), ''Syntax error'' (2000) and ''Access permitted'' (2005), not strongly promoted to earn them a place among the most famous modern Prog acts.The turning point seemed to come in 2007 with their performance at the famous Burg Herzberg Festival, followed by their signing by Gentle Art of Music.Next step was the recordings of their fourth studio album ''Oddities'', which was released in 2011.Apart from Mayrhofer, the line-up included also bassist Peter Braun, keyboardist Markus Lamek and drummer Andy Lind, while a few guests appear on keyboards, guitar, effects and other instruments.

Oddities, yes, a perfect title indeed.Because Schizofrantik's music can be divided in two totally unrelated styles.First comes their more complex, intricate and frenetic nature.With a style reminiscent of MORGLBL and KOENJIHYAKKEI (minus the Zeuhl influence) they offer a totally schizophenic, furious and extremely technical Prog Fusion with heavy guitars, twisting organs and synthesizers and a pounding rhythm section.Their music is characterized by tons of time signatures, endless breaks, virtuosic performances and numerous tempo changes, sometimes impossible to be followed by the listener due to the constant changing climates, nevertheless their approach is really impressive, although too technical for the average ear.The other side of the group relies on a more atmospheric Heavy Prog attitude with more emphasis on vocals and containing some slight psychedelic vibes, although the Fusion touches are not totally absent, especially in the impressive bass work of Peter Braun, which is extremely similar to RED HOT CHILLI PEPPERS' funky moves of Flea.Their diversity on these pieces may remind of British acts such as PORCUPINE TREE and TOUCHSTONE, incorporating orchestral and cinematic textures into heavier rock territories, but the arrangements here are definitely more virtuosic with little tendency towards melodic themes and more evident atmospheric lines and technical parts, of course with a couple of exceptions.

As aforementioned, the result is trully odd.I doubt that this album will be praised for its coherence, because the music very unsimilar from piece to piece.But again the energy, technical level and passion of this group are close to unparalleled.Overall recommended with a special note to fans of technical Progressive Rock.