VON HERTZEN BROTHERS: In Murmuration (ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

For the sake of general knowledge, Murmuration describes a large gathering of birds in flight, a definition that some may have guessed from a quick glance at the cover of this new album by the Von Hertzen Brothers. The Finnish band is already back, barely two years after a rather disappointing “Red Alert In The Blue Forest”, which lacked the energy of their previous albums. No doubt aware of this fact, our Rock Bee Gees have said of “In Murmuration” that they wanted to keep things simple, punchy and rocking, without putting too many ideas into their songs.

And indeed, this new album stands in stark contrast to its predecessor, rediscovering the tonus of the band's first opuses and especially the madness and carefree spirit of “Stars Aligned” (which dates back to 2011, after all). The vast majority of tracks are easy to listen to, immediately engaging the listener despite being more complicated than they appear. Among these fast, direct, old-fashioned tracks are 'The Relapse', in which the Von Hertzen Brothers let loose completely, including a completely schizophrenic sax solo, and the power pop 'Starlings', which also delivers its weight in adrenalin. Less unbridled, but just as successful, are 'A Good Life', 'The Change' with another superb sax solo, and FM's 'Ascension Day', all in the great Von Hertzen Brothers tradition, with their immediate refrains and grandiose choruses typical of Arena Rock.

While the vocals remain one of the band's major assets, the other instruments are not to be outdone, and we're sure to appreciate the numerous guitar solos full of feeling ('Beneath The Silver Stars') that pepper most of the songs and give them extra depth, as well as the well-rounded, warm bass that does an excellent job of rhythm and melody.

Much catchier than their previous work, and rediscovering the vitality and good humor that characterized their first albums, “In Murmuration” puts the Von Hertzen Brothers back at the forefront of dynamic, inventive alternative rock. Fans of songs with beautiful melodies that don't give in to simplicity will be delighted. - Official website

VON HERTZEN BROTHERS

IN MURMURATION

WARNER

ROCK