Alternative
Convertible – Holst Gate II LP (Noise Appeal Records)
“Holst Gate II” is the sixth album by Convertible and an incredible follow-up to its predecessor. I already wrote an article about this marvelous release, and now I am revisiting it by diving deep into a vinyl version. Some readers might think there are no differences between CD and vinyl releases, but quite the contrary, […]
“Holst Gate II” is the sixth album by Convertible and an incredible follow-up to its predecessor. I already wrote an article about this marvelous release, and now I am revisiting it by diving deep into a vinyl version. Some readers might think there are no differences between CD and vinyl releases, but quite the contrary, there are many visual and audio nuances, making a vinyl version far superior. Although digipak CD looks marvelous in its own right, vinyl perfectly showcases a profoundly detailed front cover artwork, showcasing Hans Platzgumer, a typewriter, and a lyric sheet levitating above the parade showcased on the first version of “Holst Gate.” It’s always good to see an immensely creative artist taking the time to develop several continuous parts of the story, and “Holst Gate II” is a perfect example of it.
Soundwise, “Holst Gate II” resonates with more intricacies, nuances, and details. I know those readers into CD and digital media in general will hate me because of this statement, but it’s true, the vinyl version sounds superior. This record will be right up your alley if you’re looking for an uncompressed sound where the dynamic range and outstanding performance of Platzgumer and his band reign supreme. And “Holst Gate II” shines with brilliant ideas distilled into exceptional compositions where every instrument has its own space to shine in the limelight. Take “Spinning” as a perfect example. This opening composition showcases magnificent piano leads, themes, and melodies, backed by powerful basslines and robust drumming sequences. The brass section decorates particular segments and emphasizes Platzgumer’s incredible vocal performance. Forever (Thought We’d Have) is another marvelous number where all the instrumentations sound divine. “Holst Gate II” has been empowered with a sound that meets all the trends of contemporary music production, so you’ll hear even the tiniest vocal articulations, notes, beats, and nuances. Forever (Thought We’d Have) exemplifies the brilliance of Convertible through precise musicianship and a comprehensive collection of ideas stacked into a singular number.
“Broken Dials” slows the pace down a little bit, and these half-time beats will appeal to your ears. Platzgumer focused more on the vocal lines and piano performance, while the rhythm section bursts with so much power from the beginning to the end. The band is continuously in the pocket, delivering ultimately precise chord progressions, low-end notes, and beats. “Not Cloud” brings back an upbeat tempo, and this energetic song carries some classic rock vibes It’s another highlight on this magnificent album that showcases the versatility of this band. Once again, the piano and bass guitar harmoniously work together while the remainder of the band decorates everything these two instruments tried to achieve throughout the entire song. The guitars also play a significant role here, with all the intricate, catchy chord progressions enriching and uplifting the ambiance to the max. “The Colin Holst Song,” “Everything And Everything,” and “Never Know” represent a winning streak consisting of beautiful ballads and downtempo songs. The soulful performance and jaw-dropping ideas pop from every possible direction, and these songs will be right up your alley if you’re looking for much calmer, tastefully composed music.
“Shadow Scene Revisited” might seem like another soothing, relaxing, ethereal track, but it’s actually a mid-tempo masterpiece that serves as a proper continuation of “Shadow Scene,” a beautiful song from “Holst Gate.” Like the previous version, this one also delivers top-notch musicianship to the table, emphasizing a cleverly arranged brass performance. “Kongsberg” calms things once again with its ambient vibes. It’s a soothing track where whispery vocals, melodies, harmonies, chord progressions, and basslines keep your attention engaged to the max. This number also serves as an introduction to “Shangri-La,” an incredible closing song, entirely performed in a recognizable Convertible style. All in all, Hans Platzgumer and Convertible created a masterpiece that demands your utmost attention. It’s one of those albums that demonstrates Platzgumer’s outstanding ideas and musicianship from scratch to finish, leaving you with an urge to repeat this sonic urge over again. Therefore, head to Noise Appeal Records and purchase this album on vinyl.
Source: thoughtswordsaction.com
