ALBUM REVIEW: A Secret To Hide – Poverty’s No Crime

POVERTY’S NO CRIME unleash their upcoming album, A Secret To Hide, upon the eve of their 30th anniversary as a band. The German prog-metal quintet, who last gave us material in 2016, have produced eight studio albums since their formation in 1991. This latest arrival marks their second creation under Metalville Records. 

The band, who already lean towards extensive timespans between each new album release, have pieced together eight songs that showcase an impressive compilation of melodies and a display of well-crafted instrumental skills.

Standing front and centre is vocalist Volker Walsemann, who delivers the exceptional tones that have come to be expected from the group. The band’s lyrics are naturally carried by the smoothness of his impressive range, his voice feeding into the emotional capacity of the words for the listener. The songs Grey To Green and Flesh And Bone, are great examples of this, and are particular stand-outs throughout the album’s entirety. They showcase not only a great technical ability, but meaningful lyrics that leave a lasting impression and intense satisfaction.

The first initial 30 seconds of play-time on most of the songs manage to peak enough interest for most ears, the catchy guitar riffs drawing you in. And while these almost give off a hard rock feel, your expectations are set high. However, as the first song, Supernatural demonstrates, you never really get to the high you were hoping for, with some tracks at times feeling drawn out. Never really hitting that sweet spot or feeling like it ever truly kicks in.

However, if you’re wanting a display of pure prog metal heaven for the ears, the instrumental track entitled The Great Escape allows you to truly appreciate the technical skills of each band member, as they blast out the powerful six-minute long track.

Helping aid the transition and passages within the songs, keyboard player Jörg Springub manages to pack a punch, as he successfully incorporates his somewhat non-traditional instrument into the piece, whilst still maintaining that crucial metal vibe. This has been vital within previous albums, such as Spiral Of Fear too, where he can be credited for helping change tempos and bringing a unique twist to the group’s set-up.

All in all, while A Secret To Hide is somewhat repetitive the more you listen, with several tracks sounding a little too similar or drawn out, it should be noted that POVERTY’S NO CRIME have all of the ingredients to make a successful meal. It is just with this latest album that, although given to the fans as a sort of anniversary gift, is perhaps one tone. Their powerful musicality on the few catchier songs, demonstrates their overall talents. And, with a committed fanbase in Germany, and their continuous display of strong vocals with traditional prog metal/rock vibes attracting substantial positive attention, overall this new material should sit well with long-term fans.

Rating: 6/10

A Secret To Hide is out now via Metalville Records.

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