German art rockers Dark Suns are interesting which is really important to me when it comes to doing reviews. Horns! Not many bands have a full horn section, certainly not when it comes to performing art rock. I suppose Chicago comes to mind and no, not the shitty ballad machine of the ’80s. Dark Suns aren’t like them anyway. Imagine a modern prog band that uses horns no different than a guitar or keyboards.

The horns are definitely lead instruments like on the opener “The Only Young Ones Left” or the awesome second track “Spiders.” But they are barely found on the epic track “Morning Rain.” The real key to the success of Dark Suns lies with the band using all of its talents. Singer Niko Knappe is a huge part of that talent. His vocals range from a quiet Hogarthian whisper to a husky bellow that reminds me of John Hiatt of all people! It works! Besides I happen to love John Hiatt.

“Everchild” is interesting because the album gets more daring and more progressive as it goes along. The title track slinks along with a Tool-like rhythm but has a blistering chorus that Tool would never dare. Speaking of daring, the closing track is a cover of the Tori Amos song “Yes, Anastasia” which the band very much make their own!

There’s not a weak track to be found on this album. “Everchild” is a breath of fresh air for me. A band that are very musical and very diverse in their approach. They write really good songs, arrange them well and the performance is superb. I should also mention the sound of the production on the album by Peter Junge is phenomenal. If you like challenging art rock that isn’t afraid to take risks, “Everchild” is more than a worthwhile journey to take with Dark Suns as your guides.

Rating: 9/10

Tracklist:

1. The Only Young Ones Left
2. Spiders
3. Escape With The Sun
4. Monster
5. Codes
6. The Fountain Garden
7. Unfinished People
8. Everchild
9. Torn Wings
10. Morning Rain
11. Yes, Anastasia

Label: Prophecy Productions