FAMILJESPRICKOR

It's kind of funny that in the liner notes the band explains that the reason this record isn't as optimistic or happy as past albums is that they were breaking up, and that these circumstances have affected the music. Kind of funny because this is energetic, exciting and fun music for the most part. This was a pleasure to listen to with the complex instrumental work and band interplay. Lots of variety as well on this one and quite accessible too. There are no horns on this album but hey there's an accordion !

"Five Single Combats" opens with piano and cymbals, there is so much going on in this uptempo track. The percussion is great and there are vocal melodies as well. Lots to enjoy on the opening song. "Ventilation Calculation" is dominated by guitar and drums in the one minute intro. This domination continues. The guitar melodies are a treat in this straight forward song. Piano after 4 minutes. "The Forge" is an uptempo song that is sort of similar to the opening track. A collage of sounds greets our ears. Accordion 2 1/2 minutes in. Just a great sounding tune. "The Thrall" was taken from live performances in France. Vocal sounds and cymbals create lots of atmosphere with no real melody. The song starts to build 2 minutes in with some eerie sounds. This is a freaky song.

"The Painting Short Story" opens with some excellent guitar that gets even better (more tasteful) later. Outstanding drumming as well as piano arrives before the song really kicks in at the 3 minute mark. "Pappa (with right of veto)" is one of only two songs with lyrics. It was recorded live in Germany. Aggressive vocals with a good melody. This is the catchiest song on the album. The song calms down 2 minutes in with some crazy vocals before building back up. Vibes? and drums to end it. "The Farmhand" is a lighter song with piano, drums, guitar and bass before 2 minutes. This one has vocals too. Seems like they are having fun on this cool tune. "Kernal In Short And Long Castling" opens with some fantastic drum / piano interplay. Guitar arrives before the song settles down and then rises back up beautifully to a full sound. A nice melody after 3 minutes before the original melody returns 5 minutes in to end the song.

This is such a classic that you should really get while you can. The cover that shows a picture ripped in half of a family in a boat, and the title of this album, has to have special meaning concerning the band breaking up.