X-ing – Crossing The Universe

Releasedate: 04-03-2011; Label: Thunderblast Records
By: Sabine van Gameren

X-ing is a Progressive Rock band from Germany. They have been around for quite some year, started in the late 80’s. Their debut had to wait until 2003 though. Anno 2011 the band releases their third full length album called: “Crossing The Universe”.

The band has the progressive rock on their basics, but this is extremely melodic and catchy as well. Listening to this album is as if you are taken to a listening session of a rock opera. Compare it to those albums that Ayreon make, the concept, but maybe less bombastic. Experience more than an hour full of compositions that stick together quite well. They are all building towards an highlight and yet all match together as an one piece story. This may also be a point of weakness, there is not one song that stands out as being substantially different, more catchy or more extreme than the others. Some songs might throw you back to bands of the past as Dire Straits and Marillion, as these influences are hearable but the band remains quite well with their own sound.
Overall, you mainly find yourself easily comfortable with their songs as they listen easy and you can listen to them while having it on at the background but as well as you can give it your full attention and still be entertained after one hour. It may not be the most original release but certainly one that is worth to listen to.

Line-up:
Umberto Carretti –Guitar, vocals
Thommy Keller-Vocals
Tina Reitberger– Bass
Tom Henzen – Drum
Uli Schmid – Keyboard

Tracklist: 01. Crossing the universe 02. Walk of fame 03. Once again 04. Feeling you inside 05. Fallen from the angels 06. Carry on 07. Talk to me 08. Hope behind my eyes 09. Far away from home 10. Hey Mister nice guy 11. Break the wall of silence 12. Unwritten diaries 13. When the night comes 14. Kick this love away

Links:
X-ing MySpace
X-ing Official