White Rose Transmission - Spinning Webs At Night

While not exactly being a famous band, White Rose Transmission could in fact be regarded as a super-group. I usually do not use this rather dull term, but on the other hand, there is no other way to describe this band:originally formed back in 1995 by Carlo Van Putten(The Convent) and most notably perhaps, Adrian Borland(The Sound). Unfortunately, White Rose Transmission never received the attention they deserved, especially if compared to the massive success, both in terms of musicianship, but also,in terms of recognition, that Sound enjoyed back then.
Nevertheless, a long line of charismatic artists/musicians have participated in this band's history:figures such as Mark Burgess(The Chameleons), Amanda Palmer (Dresden Dolls) and last, but certainly not least, Marty-Wilson Piper (The Church).
As a result,White Rose Transmission delivered some very good albums,always maintaining a stamp of quality,throughout.Sadly,as many of you propably know,Adrian Borland commited suicide in 1999.That tragic event seemed to mark the end for White Rose Transmission..But Carlo re-cruited some new members to accompany him into resurrecting this band.His chosen comrades were Rob Keijzer and Frank Weyzig,the later being known as a past member of Clan of Xymox,but also as a central figure in Stargazing Project as well as the lovely,but unfortunately underrated,Born For Bliss(some of you might even remember that I had reviewed an album by Born For Bliss for subexistance,not that long ago..).

The present disc is a live recording,capturing the band in a performance from their latest tour in Germany.What is easily shown herein,is their ability to perform an almost flawless concert.What they present here is a set of balladry,mainly acoustic,eventually sounding like low profile,candle-lit songs.Do not dismiss them as background muzak though,because simply that is not the case here:their material is full of emotions,dissolving into a warm,sentimental mood.Which could even be described as a perfect companion for a long winter night,along with some red wine for sure!No need to pick out highlights off this album,either.Instead,I would advise you to listen to it as a whole,in order to dig deeper into its foundations.As stated previously,this is music so rich in emotions,that demands a careful listen,indeed!Regardless,I do need to make a special,honorary mention to "Special Air"a song initially written and recorded by The Sound,that here serves as a homage to the late Adrian Borland,obviously.On my behalf,I trully hope that White Rose Transmission will at last receive the attention-and recognition-that they clearly deserve.The decision is yours,of course.My only final words would simply be:rest in peace,Adrian.We will remember you..

Tracklist:
1)Love Or Just Loveless

2)Wildest Horse

3)Cold In Spring

4)World In A Whirlpool

5)Ashes Or The Sparks

6)Lifeboat

7)Valley Of Blue Flowers

8)Bone Breaking Days

9)Glittering Green

10)Fire Flies

11)Weightless

12)Silent Air

13)Shades Of The Night

14)Walking In The Opposite Direction

8/10          Isabelle S.