Yes, you remember well, we’re already met with neofolk / neoclassical project Stroszek back in the early days of the Rubber Axe webzine, when I have reviewed Stroszek’s EP “A Break In The Day”. This CD, titled “Songs of Remorse” is the debut CD from 2007 in nice digipack from God Is Myth Records.
And what a mighty debut. Obviously, you might be aware of the fact Claudio is also founder and guitarist of Italian black metal veterans Frostmoon Eclipse, which should – in case you are familiar with the latter – give you a little insight into what to expect here.
Stroszek is neofolk-neoclassical accoustic project and the accoustic guitar is a dominant instrument here, supported the dreamy vocals of Claudio, but many times we’re served parts with distorted guitars, which gives the album some spice, if you will. And it’s only right to mention fantastic work of Davide (bass) and Richard (drums).
I will admit I am biased in this review for this album – not only because I like it – but also for the ability to transport me instantly back to 2007 when I’ve found neoclassical/neofolk (and all the other relevant genres) and I’d fallen in love with it almost after the very first note.
I’ve decided not to go with my usual song-by-song review routine here, and for a good reason – the songs are very similar to each other and one could say that hearing one you heard them all, hovewer… I guess that would be a deep misunderstanding and with statement like this one would miss the point completely.
I am convinced that such material as this one presented on the album should be viewed as a complete whole – and there’s no such thing as best song, or “this song is better than that one”. This is a meditative, dreamy mindtrip into yourself (until you come across “the house told me”, which will wake you up with the pressing drum rhythm and nice riffs – although, it’s true I would need to mention great riffs and melodies with every song here, and I wouldn’t lie), it let you flow on the waters of memories and thoughts as they emerge and disappear…and not only with the accoustic numbers, where such a mood is somewhat expected, but also with the song like “stones in my throat” or “The Railroad Track”, which, in my modest opinion, wouldn’t be lost in the House M.D. soundtrack to almost funeral atmosphere invoking track (at least in the beginning) “wheels to rust” with so nice a solo and the closing “sand”. Oh, my…
Simply put – a high class music for those appreciative enough of such. I am sure there are people who could fill page after page with a proper dissection of this music, lyrics and what have you, but I’d argue to leave it to everyone’s own perception. Only then it could really shine as the aural diamond it is.
Along with a nice digipack presentation, this is something many would find soul touching and heart warming, especially in these times. I can’t but recommend it wholeheartedly.