Kraan's masterpiece from 1977 was a great choice to receive the remaster/reissue treatment from InsideOut. This classic is filled with tasty fusion romps, funky rave-ups, and proggy delights, and with improved sound which gives the album a certain punchiness and brightness that the original version was lacking, makes for a CD worth purchasing again.
After you get done reading the informative commentary from Matthias Mineur in the CD booklet, you'll really dig the wonderful sounds of on this one, which was looked at as a new beginning for the band when it was released in 1977. Prior to this release of what was to be their fifth album, long-time sax player Alto Pappert had left the band, and Kraan chose to replace him with a keyboard player named Info Bischoff. This move really added a new dimension to the bands sound, songwriting, and soloing capabilities. Songs like "Just One Way" and "Silky Way" have an earthier quality to them while still retaining that trademark fusion and funk edge. "Voligas Ahoi" is one of the bands most beloved songs, and a true fusion classic that fans of Jeff Beck, Weather Report, and Return to Forever will love. Hellmut Hattler's juggernaut bass lines lead the way for Peter Wolbrandt's melodic guitar runs and Bischof's tasty electric piano and synth solos and textures, while Jan Fride's drum work is nimble and busy. Other highlights are the memorable jazz rock of "Rendezvous In Blue", the legendary "Yaqui Yagua" (which became a concert favorite), and the brilliant prog-fusion that is the title track. The synergy between the players on these songs, not to mention the sheer melodic nature of the arrangements, are just a few reasons why these tunes stand the test of time nearly 30 years lafter they were originally released. All the players are accomplished soloists, and while there is plenty of fiery lead work throughout Wiederhoren, the emphasis is on tight ensemble playing and memorable melodies. Most of the album is instrumental, save for a few funk rock pieces with vocals by Wolbrandt, "Let's Take a Ride" being the best with some great guitar and bass work.
This reissue contains a near 20-minute live version of an early arrangement of the title track, recorded in Fellbach, Germany in 1976. This is one length jam, and included plenty of roaring solos, especially for Hattler and Wolbrandt. So, rejoice and enjoy a Kraan classic all over again!
Track Listing
1. Just One Way (4:00 )
2. Vollgas Ahoi (6:07)
3. Silky Way (3:58)
4. Rendezvous In Blue (5:56)
5. Let's Take A Ride (5:19)
6. Rund Um Die Uhr (3:45 )
7. Yaqui Yagua (5:19)
8. Wiederhören (7:13)
9. Ein Wiederhoren Mit Einem Bass Solo (Live at Fellbach 1976)-bonus track (19:28)
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