Released in late 2009 (December 10th), ‘Life Failures Made Music’ is the second full-length album from Stroszek and while I greatly enjoyed the debut and the following EP, I must be honest when I say this sophomore release is simply beyond belief in how absolutely breathtaking it is.
Similarly to the debut with its mix of highly melodic acoustic guitars, vibrant bass work and light percussion, Life Failures Made Music follows the debut but generally everything is vastly improved and far more appealing. For example the guitar work (both acoustic & electric) is just gorgeous in it delivery with so many wonderful riffs and amazing solos. During the softer songs the melancholy being strummed from Claudio’s fingers is at times almost overwhelming, but as it is so well played its hard to resist. The electric guitars also seem to make a greater presence on this recording, and at least in my opinion some of the songs on this album remind me of the softer Alice in Chains songs from the early half of the 90’s.
As mentioned in my previous review, Claudio’s voice conveys an introverted and depressive quality, but it’s genuine all the way and that’s just one of the things that makes Stroszek all the more enjoyable for me. Honest musical art that’s straight from the heart.
The other two members, Davide and Richard also contribute a great deal to this album with their performance. Richard’s drum work is fantastic and I really enjoy the way he shifts from normal beats to tribal and even militaristic playing. Davide’s bass work is also well done and gives the album a perfect low end sound.
As for favorites, well, honestly now this is one of those albums where just every single song truly stands out. All of the songs seem to have a melancholy vibe to them, but others are more intense than others, while a song like, ‘The Unlucky Ones’ is powerful in its delivery and keeps the misery more buried. And then there’s, ‘Nighthawks and Underdogs,’ which is just perfect to say the least. Regardless of approach or emotional qualities I find this album to be just stunning.
Assuming you enjoyed the first Stroszek album, Alice in Chains or even the softer Opeth songs you may just find that this is the album for you. Truly one of the highlights of 2009 and for the curious this album can be purchased at God is Myth Records for a mere $9, which is an absolute bargain. Go get it!
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