Schizofrantik

Schizofrantik were formed in 1998 and have been playing and writing music ever since, but their first release was in 2008. They have since been signed to the label Gentle Art of Music, who released their first label-backed CD, "Oddities" in 2011.
Their music is characterized by tons of time signatures, endless breaks, virtuosic performances and numerous tempo changes, sometimes impossible to be followed by the listener due to the constant changing climates, nevertheless their approach is really impressive, although too technical for the average ear. The other side of the group relies on a more atmospheric Heavy Prog attitude with more emphasis on vocals and containing some slight psychedelic vibes.

More than ever Schizofrantik do not take prisoners on their latest offering. After thirty years on the stage Martin Mayrhofer’s compositions have reached a degree of precision that is as fascinating as it is uncompromising. Even in the field of progressive avantgarde rock it is a rare event to see such universal transcendence. In Henning Lübben (keyboards), Christian Schichtl (drums) and the latest addition Marco Osmajic (bass) the founder has gathered a virtuoso troupe that plays its own part in breathing life into the mastermind’s enormously ambitious approach. That is why, in spite of all technical and compositional complexity, emotions are always a vital and present part of the song through which the pieces are provided with the warmth of accessibility. Ripping Heartaches’ exuberant energy makes it a real treat for every lover of ambitious rock music…

Andy Lind (The Ancestry Program, Panzerballett, Schizofrantik) has once again changed and developed stylistically. The music is still very complex, but it's not that tough anymore, growls mostly disappeared. In addition to influences from Avant Prog, Fusion, Progressive Rock and Math Metal, even pop choruses can be heard. The music on the album does not set itself any limits, there are many facets across styles and there is no fear of experiments. Anyone who likes complex progressive rock in the style of Yugen, Gentle Giant, Meshuggah or Haken will be well served here.