Review Summary: "Fly To The Rainbow" is a terrific CD by Scorpions. This is a record that is more tie-dye than
leather, yet still provides enough heaviness. This is a perfect CD to put on if you want to relax and explore your mind.
For the average listener, the mention of the band Scorpions will conjure up memories of the songs "Rock You Like A Hurricane" or "Wind Of Change", but you might be surprised to find out the German band was at its creative peak in the 70's. Their sophomore album "Fly To The Rainbow" from 1974 bears witness to this fact.
After recording their first record "Lonesome Crow" in 1973, axe slinger Michael Schenker left to join UFO and was replaced by Uli Jon Roth. This change brought the talents of Roth to light, and his playing shines on the 5 albums he recorded with Scorpions in the 70's. Uli is a guitarist who channels incredible emotion through his guitar, combining the fluidity and bends of Hendrix with a complex neo-classical technique. And although on this first record you will hear more Hendrix than Vivaldi, he nevertheless adds alot to the already outstanding foundation of rythym guitarist Rudolf Schenker and singer Klaus Meine.
Now on to the album itself. This CD has a bizarre cover. It looks something like an ape riding two helicopter blades while wearing a welding mask. (Crazy Right?) But don't worry. After listening you will see that this absurd cover only adds to the mystique and psychedelic coolness of the music inside.
The first track is "Speedy's Coming". This one is a fast tempo song written by Meine and Schenker that includes some interesting lyrics about an up and coming rocker. This is overall an enjoyable track but not my favorite. "They Need A Million" is next. This song has an awesome spanish guitar opening which evolves into a heavier song with a cool rythym.
The record really hits it's stride with the next song. "Drifting Sun" is an epic, Hendrixy guitar orgy written by Roth. This song kicks ass. It features a cool rythym, badass psychedelic effects and great lyrics. By now you will see that this CD has more in common with Pink Floyd than the at-times banal metal they were known for in the 80's.
The next three tracks are all phenomenal, with great songwriting by Schenker and Meine and splendid soloing by Uli. "Far Away" is a beautiful song that will leave you feeling peaceful and ready for another journey. And that journey is the album closer, "Fly To The Rainbow."
Prepare to go to another dimension. Uli begins this masterpiece with classical guitar, then Klaus Meine joins in with a sweet and melodic vocal section. From there on you will be treated to delicious harmonized guitar, pulsing drums and bass and the soulful singing of Klaus. The song ends with a poem read by Uli,followed by a stunning, feedback-drenched outro solo. This song is an epic 9 and a half minutes of glory.
In conclusion, "Fly To The Rainbow" is a terrific CD by Scorpions. This is a record that is more tie-dye than leather, yet still provides enough heaviness. This is a perfect CD to put on if you want to relax and explore your mind.
