Crack'n Up's

Crack'n Up's.

Ever heard of 'em? Maybe not, but the release of their new CD Raincheck, marks the band's fifth album. Granted, one was a two-song demo and two others had only six songs on each album. But the Crack'n Up's have been very busy over the last six years!
Nils Wandrey, the band's lead everything, is an uber-talent. From writing the lyrics and music to singing the vocals to playing the rhythm and lead guitar tracks, this guy is off the charts! It's amazing he isn't a one-man band!
The German-based Crack'n Up's sound a lot like the Scorpions, which isn't surprising as Nils lists them as one of his big influences (along with a special thanks to Matthias Jabs). However, he has a surprisingly full-bodied voice when he sings in his lower register. It's very reminiscent of James LaBrie from Dream Theater.
Raincheck is a solid rock album with a very eclectic mix of songs including rock, metal, mellow and ballad. While this might turn some off for not being focused, it has a good ebb and flow to it that keeps it from getting stale as you get into the later tracks.
Of course, no rock album would be worth its salt if it didn't kick things off with a rocker. "Alright" does just that. It's a great sing-along song that stays in your head. If you like something a little heavier and darker, check out "Kill The Pain.""Mind Trip" is also a darker song with pain as a central theme. However, it has a nice, melodic chorus which is completely different and refreshing.
Crack'n Up's have some great ballad style songs in "Miss You Pretty Girl", "Can't Get By," "Bird Song" and "Wishing Well". Before you think these will be just a bunch of tired old love songs, check them out. Nils seems to always have a lyrically interesting perspective on love/life songs. In addition, the arrangement in these songs is refreshing and atypical for a 'ballad'.
The production is excellent on this album. The lyrics are well thought out and meaningful. The musicianship is superb. There doesn't seem to be a downside here. If you're into meaningful songs with a good hook, this is an excellent album to own. If they're temporarily out of stock, ask for a raincheck.
- HARDROCK HAVEN USA (by Curt Hauff)