The Nuremberg-based trio makes classic Rock, which is based on the
heyday of the genre in the 1960s / 1970s and contains strong blues as well
as psychedelic influences. At the same time, the sound of the trio, which he
himself describes as "vintage rock", comes across as absolutely fresh and
contemporary and always makes you sit up and take notice with
unexpected insertions or excursions into other genres. The current line-up,
consisting of Jochen Leistner (vocals, organ, bass and harmonica), Kris
Karla (guitar and choral vocals) as well as Oliver Pfeiffer on drums and
percussion, shows by far the most mature and compact songs of their
career so far. One of the best examples of this is placed right at the start of
the record. "Eden's Gate" is basically a wonderfully straightforward,
forward-looking rocker. Towards the end, however, it develops almost epic
qualities, before it steers wonderfully thoughtfully towards the finale thanks
to an atmospheric piano part. "Gettin' Rid Off", on the other hand, is a dirty,
heavy grooving stomper that almost imposes itself as a live anthem, while
"Mother Earth" is much more introverted and gentle, but always forward-
oriented and comes along with a brilliant guitar solo. Even more variety is
provided not only by the subliminally Americana feeling that comes through
from time to time, but especially by the astonishingly authentically
presented Latin rocker "De ngeles Y Diablos". The concluding
"Homecoming" is not only perhaps the quietest track, it also brings out the
psychedelic roots of the musicians once again. Fans of handmade,
powerful, lively and rousing rock music can look forward to the tour dates of
The Shadow Lizzards - as well as to their excellent new album "Paradise".
