Review: Lazarus Dream – Imaginary Life

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Lazarus Dream – Imaginary Life

Pride & Joy Music (January 19th, 2024)

Reviewer: Chris O’Connor

The exceptional talent of German Melodic Rock band Lazarus Dream truly shines through, in this their third album ‘Imaginary Life’. The band is spearheaded by the dynamic duo of multi-instrumentalist Markus Pfeffer (who you may also know for his other band Scarlett), and powerhouse vocalist Carsten Lizard Schultz (ex-Domain/Evidence One). For this third album, the band has recruited drummer Markus Herzog (Double Crush Syndrome/Cherie Curry), who more than proves his worth throughout the album.

Last time around, the ‘Lifeline’ album found the band exploring more a more experimental path, thankfully this time around, Lazarus Dream gracefully returns to the Melodic roots so beloved of the fans from their ‘Alive’ debut. Here, the focus is squarely focused on big hooks, bigger choruses, and a combination of groove-infused riffs and potent melodies, that I am certain will have their audience more than content. Interestingly, the title track features a guest appearance solo by Stephan Lill (Vanden Plas), who brings his unique style to add extra light and brilliance to the album.

First single ‘My Prayer’ is a genuinely elegant number, Pfeffer’s lead work is precise, intricate and powerful, and Schulz’s vocals with the almost bombastic vocal arrangements, create an atmosphere that is almost ethereal – it’s tremendous stuff! ‘My Imaginary Life’ is a melodic rock/AOR gem, while the poignant ballad ‘Beauty Among The Ruins’, the raucous and mid-tempo rocker ‘Vertigo’, and finally the epic album coda ‘Empire Of Thorns’ are all also worthy of special mention.

The album’s remarkable artwork was crafted by renowned French artist Stan W. Decker (Night Ranger/Stryper/Blue Öyster Cult), and suits the album’s music perfectly. ‘Imaginary Life’ not only showcases Lazarus Dream’s musical prowess, but also delivers a visually captivating experience – a neat coupling if done properly – as evidenced here. For me personally, the album has been something of a slow-burner, which has finally won me over with repeated listens – I urge you to buy ‘Imaginary Life’, as it is everything good and great about Melodic Rock.

 Tracklist: 

  1. The Sweetest Chaos
  2. Vulture’s Cry
  3. Rebel Again
  4. My Imaginary Life
  5. Beauty Among The Ruins
  6. Disaster Love
  7. Vertigo
  8. My Prayer
  9. Drink My Blood
  10. Empire Of Thorns

 

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