Considering it's Valentine's Day, I suppose it's only fair to post an album that has the word love in its title.
Anyway, Werkraum is the project of German musician Axel Frank who on every release so far has surrounded himself with diverse talented musicians from around the world. Once again the familiar faces of Antje, Nicholas & Robert (from Changes), Chris & Nick (from Lady Morphia) join Axel with new appearances by Herr Wind, Haju and Max Percht of Sturmpercht fame.
With all introductions wrapped up nicely let me just say this is indeed Werkraum's finest hour. 'La Marmotte' has absolutely breathtakingly beautiful music with one of the catchiest chorus' I've ever heard in a folk song. Antje's vocals are gorgeous and the words although not in English become trapped in your brain for repeated hours after listening to this lovely song. Similarly, 'Ein Lied von Lieb und Treu' is another stunning piece of music with Axel handling the vocals this time around. 'Santy Ano' is something a bit different for Werkraum since its a bit faster paced song with wonderful lead vocals from Nick, whereas its followed by, 'Slâfest Du, Vriedel Ziere,' which is a considerably slower piece invoking a calming perhaps somewhat melancholic mood. 'Song for Erik' is another dreamy melancholic song at eleven minutes its clearly the longest song on this album. Lead vocals and lyrics are handled by Nicholas this time around with just beautiful music to go with it. The final song, 'Sanctity and Steel' is a lovely closer with fantastic vocals from Nick.
In the few years since this albums release its wondrous tunes have entered my ears constantly and just like I said at the beginning of this review, this is one of the best folk releases both I've and probably you'll hear for a long while to come. Whether or not it actually falls into the neo folk genre is entirely up to the listener, but regardless I adore this album. Absolutely essential for both folk music and Werkraum fans alike or those that wish to discover delicate beautiful folk music of the most pristine and high quality.
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