Altona "Chickenfarm" 1975

Chickenfarm (RCA 1975)

Genre: JazzRock

Album Legnth: 39:26

Best Track: Chickenfarm

Tracks:

1. Elephant Walk 5.33

2. Lover's Tale 5.10

3. Ramadam 4.03

4. Tango Lady 4.09

5. Back Again 5.15

6. Feigenblatt 5.10

7. Chickenfarm 10.06

Overview:

If you are in the mood for some top notch jazzrock then look no further than Altona's 1975 follow up album 'Chickenfarm' to satisfy your urge. 'Chickenfarm's' sound is well within the mid-70's progressive framework, but Altona managed to steer clear of the technical deepend, opting instead for a more rock-based Anglo-American approach containing catchy riffs and memorable melodies. Overall the sound of this album reminds me of a more mainstream Passport mixed with a little bit of Birth Control. Vocally, Karl-Heinz Blumenberg (who sounds like Bernd Noske of Birth Control) was one of the more talented vocalists in the genre and his voice stands out and carries the melodies quite well. Musically, the strongest elements come from the horn section composed of Blumenberg, Von Ronn, and Wulff. Their sound is textured and tight, fitting perfectly into the mix. Standout tracks include: 'Elephant Walk', 'Lover's Tale', 'Back Again', and 'Chickenfarm'. 'Lover's Tale' is an atmospheric ballad containing strong melodies and a catchy horn section whereas 'Back Again' is a funky upbeat number with a slight discordant feel and an atmospheric chorus. Both are great tracks, but the most notable track on the album is the self-titled 'Chickenfarm'. The album's sole extended track, clocking in at over 10-minutes, 'Chickenfarm' builds upon a delicate guitar arpeggio in dynamic fashion as a powerful orchestration enters into the mix, builds upon the theme, then ushers in an incredibly atmospheric and epic keyboard sequence. The remaining several minutes allow the band a chance to flex their progressive muscle and includes sax and piano leads. Sadly, this proved to be the bands final recording although a few of the members did regroup shortly in the late 70's as Dirty Dogs releasing the albums 'Running Wild' and 'Seven Lives For Rock 'N' Roll.'

[4/5 Doug]

Musicians:

Karl-Heinz Blumenberg - Vocals, Flute, Sax

Bernd Michael Rosenberger - Keyboard

Werner von Gosen- Guitar

Fritz Kahl- Bass

Hans-Heinz Gossler - Drums

Michael von Ronn- Sax

Wolfgang Wulff- Sax