Back in stock: Progressive Rock

Review: Krautrock is a long established genre whose name has recently been questioned. Whether or not it is a slur is an ongoing conversation. The music labelled as such has become iconic, with books like Julian Cope's Krautrocksampler and Alan and Stephen Freeman's Crack in the Cosmic Egg diving deep into its nuances. The debates over 'Krautrock' v 'Kosmische Musik' only add to its allure and Krautrock Eruption by Wolfgang Seidel explores some of these distinctions. The compilation presents tracks from twelve albums, focusing partly on Bureau B's catalogue, and entirely essential for fans of this sort of sound.

Review: The SACD version of one of the most important progressive rock albums, which catapulted progressive rock from a experimental and avante garde genre into a well-respected style of rock music, while forging a path for symphonic rock pieces of longer expression to become commonplace. The enhanced clarity and depth highlight every intricate detail of the band's ambitious arrangements, making this the definitive digital edition. The album's tracks shine brighter than ever. 'Roundabout' bursts with energy, its iconic guitar intro and driving rhythm section sounding crisp and vivid. 'South Side of the Sky' reveals its layered complexity, with the interplay between piano, vocals and searing guitar more dynamic than ever. The atmospheric 'Heart of the Sunrise' benefits from the SACD's superior soundstage, emphasising its sweeping contrasts between serene melodies and thunderous intensity. Each member's contribution feels distinct yet perfectly integrated, with the enhanced fidelity highlighting the virtuosity of their performances.