JUMBO

With bassist Wolfgang "Pepe" Jäger now in tow, this is to be considered Grobschnitt's "classic" lineup. Any traces of cosmic "Krautrock" sound were pretty much behind them, this is pure symphonic rock with a comic twist. It's hard to think of another sympho-prog band with their tongue pressed so far into their cheek, "The Excursion of Father Smith" is one of the wackiest "prog epics" ever recorded. "Clown" likewise features moments of great whimsy in the comical background vocal parts. The B-side is a tad more sedate, with the folk-tinged "Dream And Reality" and the moody "Sunny Sunday's Sunset" taking up the bulk of the space, though the comical farewell track, "Auf Wiedersehen" makes sure they're still offering a nod and a wink.

This is no mere imitation Yes anymore. Not just from the profound comical bits, but little touches like Eroc's electronic effects at the start of "Sunny Sunday's Sunset" give this album great distinction. It's really a special album. Just go in with a sense of humour or you won't last very long.