Search - Grobschnitt :: Rockpommels Land

Sunshine and butterflies...

Jeffrey J.Park | Massachusetts, USA | 04/26/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an excellent bit of German symphonic progressive rock released in 1977 that exhibits intricate ensemble work, great synthesizer sounds, haunting melodies, and sophisticated arrangements that are on a par with their English counterparts (especially "Foxtrot" and "Wind and Wuthering" period Genesis). What sets "Rockpommels Land" apart however is the generally sunny and friendly feeling that the music evokes. Combined with Grobschnitt's great sense of humor (I actually laughed aloud at the end of "Severity Town") and their superb musicianship, this constitutes a welcome addition to a body of music that is essentially "dark" and "serious". The vocals (in English) are generally good but are a bit on the "croony" side for my taste, that is, there is a lot of tremolo in the vocalist's voice. The highlight of the CD of course is the 20-minute multi-movement suite "Rockpommels Land" which encapsulates the attributes that fans of progressive rock look for; namely epic-length and instrumental virtuosity. Highly recommended."

Grobschnitt - 'Rockpommel's Land' (Repertoire)

Mike Reed | USA | 11/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Originally released in 1977. I'm giving this CD a five-star rating for effort,alone. Until here recently, I never even knew about this title. It's much different than the other Grobschnitt discs I have in my collection which are their self-titled album, 'Volle Molle' and 'Solar Music Live' (see my reviews of all three). Couldn't help but to notice a strong Yes-like influence, specially with Stefan Danielak's superbly done vocals. Best cuts here are the awesome "Ernie's Reise", the twenty-minute title track "Rockpommel's Land" and the reissue's bonus tune "Tontillon". Truly brilliant German progressive here for the taking. If you're able,try to follow this lp's story line. Recommended."

A wonderfull fairy tale in Rock

Jack | Sweden | 06/20/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A great symphonic prog rock album over 4 tracks between 4 and 20 minutes. It tells the story of a little boy - not a hero at all - just the kind everybody may identificate with him enters by the way of his draems a strange fantasy land. Dark mights have this world under rule. Now little Ernie and his new found friend, a giantic bird named Maraboo stand against them and there dark servants - the "Blackshirts" . In common they travel through "Rockpommel's Land" to Mr. Glee's exile to save this world and bring the forbidden laugh of children back.
You can't get enough!"