Enhancing live recordings with added details—sounds like a solid plan, right? That was the approach taken by ACID ROOSTER for their new album, Hall Of Mirrors (Tonzonen / Little Cloud / Cardinal Fuzz). After two brief sessions, the tracks were left untouched for a while, before subtle embellishments were added and the album released.
The result is a more nuanced and precise work than previous releases from the Leipzig trio. Once again, they delve instrumentally into a universe of kraut, psych, and space rock. However, the four tracks on this album know exactly where they’re headed.
“Automat” is a direct, assertive track, channeling proggy space rock and telling its story in just five minutes. “Chandelier Arp” takes a more winding route, starting with an extended synth intro that gradually leads into a laid-back yet eccentric kraut groove. The journey gets tense at times but always finds its way back on track.
Then there’s “Confidence of Ignorance,” opening up a mystical terrain, reminiscent of something SLIFT might create, though ACID ROOSTER keeps things a bit more restrained. The album closes on a relaxed note with the wonderful “When Clouds Part,” a track you’ll wish would last just a little longer.
So, did we need the extra embellishments? If they’re what made this album as good as it is, we’ll gladly take them.
ACID ROOSTER – Hall Of Mirrors: Mini Instrumental Space Rock Opera – RIFL
