Here it is, the new album by GENEPOOL. The band's third work is titled "Run! Run!" and does not build on either their debut "Everything Goes In Circles" or their predecessor "Sendung/Signale." ++++ Especially "Sendung/Signale" was the reason I was particularly looking forward to this new release. Everything just clicked. A wonderful mix of wave, synth/electro, and punk rock. The album played and continues to play on both sides endlessly. An absolute hit record. ++++ Accordingly, my initial disappointment was quite significant after "Run! Run!" started playing. After several lineup changes, it also affected the central role of the lead vocals. No question, the new guy at the microphone does an excellent job, but I miss the depth of the predecessor, which added extra atmosphere. The band also underwent some musical changes. Everything has become distinctly more punk rock again. Many transitions and the arrangement of different parts make the album less tangible than its predecessor. Ska parts in "The Maggots," followed by a classic punk rock intro and a mix of synths and brass in "She-Bot," and finally in "L.U.N.A." the sound I loved so much in GENEPOOL's predecessor returns. Almost all tracks contain passages and elements that define the unmistakable GENEPOOL sound, but unfortunately, these are very rare or are overshadowed by new (old) elements, mostly clear punk rock elements. "Run! Run!" and "Fell Off A Donkey" serve as examples here. ++++ The often-used term "grower" comes to mind, and I cling to it like a lifeline. After multiple listens, the album finally gains substance and my acceptance. The newness is no longer so prominent, the comparison with the predecessor fades, and I begin to appreciate and even like the tracks for what they are. However, I don't believe that "1979" will ever be one of my favorite tracks; it's far too vague and somewhat trivial. ++++ But to avoid any misunderstandings, this is a great album. If I had listened to it detached from all prior experiences, I would have certainly celebrated it. Unfortunately (and perhaps fortunately), the large footprints of the predecessor remain.
