A new year, a new Reincarnatus album, a New Life and a new wardrobe for the ladies (or so I have heard)… If you read my post about the first Reincarnatus album, you will remember I was quite fond of the musical quality on offer. The combination of medieval instruments like hurdy gurdy, key-fiddle, recorder etc. with a modern rock ensemble of drums, bass, guitars and keyboards just works.
On this record they updated their sound a little without straying too far from the folk and classical infused pop rock they delivered earlier. Maybe a little more guitars and keyboards, but still focussing on (vocal) melodies. No need to repeat the technical abilities of this full female band, they have proven to be professional musicians on every level.
Opening with the very strong couple of Festival Day and Orléans I am immediately caught by the catchy grooves. Ideal single candidates the both of them. But them comes Als Cathars. The Gregorian sounding choir sends shivers down my spine and I think this is one of the best songs on the album. If I recall correct, they already played it last year. The combination of the choir and the band is simple awesome and in itself a reason to buy this album. Yes it is that good!
Another good development is that more of the members bring in songs. I am sure that is another reason the bar is raised as it gives them more material to choose from. They also do a convincing cover of Anastacia’s Left Outside Alone, which fits seamlessly because of the Reincarnatus treatment. Another step forwards and a joy from beginning to end. Support them as I am sure that open minded rockers will dig this as well. (There are guitar solos on board…)