Poor Genetic Material will re-released Spring Tidings on May 13, 2021, to celebrate its 15th anniversary.
Spring Tidings is the band’s favorite album. However, they felt the album needed some re-mixing to meet the modern standards of recording. So, Poor Genetic Material decided to re-mix the album, during the pandemic and release it shortly thereafter. The re-mix proved to be difficult, as “drum tracks had to be transferred from technology no longer available, keyboard tracks couldn‘t be rescued at all and had to be re-recorded”. Also, “the restrictions of the LP-format to the length of an album set up a further challenge: Spring Tidings is too long for a single album, too short for a double. The result is a shortened and differently sequenced album. If you like, a re-imagination of Spring Tidings as for the age of vinyl”.
Poor Genetic Material is made up of members: Philip Griffiths, on lead and backing vocals; Martin Griffiths, on backing vocals; Stefan Glomb, on guitars; Philipp Jaehne, on keyboards; Pia Darmstaedter, on flute; Dennis Sturm, on bass;
Dominik Steinbacher, on drums & backing vocals.
It is easy to hear from the beginning, that Poor Genetic Material would be interested in re-releasing this album. It is fantastic. From the opener “Three Steps Back…to the closer “…Or Right Ahead”. Every note is perfectly planned and played. Every song on this album is a winner. Philip Griffiths’ Saga-like vocals fit this wonderful keyboard-driven music perfectly.
The highlights are easily the opening flute for “Watercolors”, and the entire song. The lyrics warmly sung by Griffiths, along with the drumming and varied electric guitar, winding its way through the keyboard display, is stunning to listen to and enjoy. The piano and synths are the bands’ trademark and are exceptionally great on this powerful song. This song has so many wonderful moods and turning points that it is easily the best song on the album. The bass and electric lead guitar sounds are unique and unforgettable. Griffiths sings, “You are every color of the present that we live in. You are the color of the air that we breathe in. You are the color of empty space that we all revolve in”. What a perfect way to describe life.
The impressive keyboard sounds that open “Lotus Eaters”, are definitely memorable. The piano and organ later in the song are also very distinct and enjoyable. The lead guitar work and drums are also amazing.
Thank you, Poor Genetic Material for re-mixing and re-releasing Spring Tidings, and including me on the review list. I missed this album in its initial release, and I am happy I was able to hear it in re-release. It definitely is a defining moment for the band, and a great work of art and music. Enjoy this newly mixed version and welcome to your first listen, if you are like me. This band is full of creative talent, and this album is one of their highest points. Enjoy!
Track List
- Three Steps Back… – 2:23
- Blow-up – 4:04
- April – 6:56
- Watercolors – 9:31
- Tidings – 6:26
- La Ville Qui N’Existait Pas – 10:30
- Lotus Eaters – 6:58
- …Or Right Ahead – 3:59