Review by Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
4 stars out of 4
Vanden Plas is a melodic metal-progressive-rock group from Germany
featuring a strong front man by name of Andy Kunz. He sounds like
a foreign Bon Jovi, although his accent clearly separates him from
the New Jersey rocker. Gunter Werno (Keyboards, bckgr vocals), Torsten
Reichert (Bass), and Andreas Lill (Drums), are the other members of
this powerfully gifted and technically exact unit.
"Colour Temple/AcCult is a rather remarkable two CD set. There are
several reasons why; you get two versions of some songs, one CD is
electric and the other unplugged, and you will also hear previously unreleased material.
I listened to the bonus disc first. The acoustic material is absolutely
phenomenal. There are lots of lush and beautiful guitars accompanied
by exquisite vocals. Everything about the way the band jells in each
song gives their sound an entirely different landscape and mood in
comparison to the rocking metal you are accustomed to hearing from
them. And the electric versions of the songs from the original album
are highly forceful and energetic; I really enjoyed each track immensely
as well. This is a beyond your wildest dreams Vanden Plas recording.
You get the very best of both worlds to compare and contrasts. The
best part about it for me was that I happened to love every second
of it on each disc. I can appreciate the beauty and gentleness of
the music, and by the same token can connect with the energy and emotion
of the hard driving rockers. It's all here for you, both sides of
progressive rock. Musical nirvana awaits your beckoned call. Get this
special edition release, its one that you will be very happy you decided
to get; you have my word of honor as a prog freak.
Disc One
1. Father - 5:40
2. Push - 4:18
3. When the Wind Blows - 7:12
4. My Crying - 5:27
5. Soul Survives - 9:07
6. Anytime - 7:06
7. Judas - 6:03
8. Back to Me- 8:14
9. How Many Tears - 5:32
Bonus Disc
1. Meaekavos-0:34
2. My Crying-4:54
3. Theme From 'Pseudo Silk Kimono'-0:41
4. Kayliegh-4:56
5. Father-5:03
6. Georgia On My Mind-5:04
7. How Many Tears-7:09
8. Des Hauts, Des Bas-4:18
9. Spanish Rain-7:15
10. Days Of Thunder-4:39
11. Raining In My Heart-Bonus Track-4:38
Credits:
Vanden Plas - Arranger, Producer
Gunter Werno - Keyboards, Vocals (bckgr)
Andy Kuntz - Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Torsten Reichert - Bass
Andreas Lill - Drums
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