Barbarella – Quid Pro Quo

Barbarella – Quid Pro Quo

Poema Productions / Bigmouth – 2012

Rock, Stoner, Garage

Rated: ***

Albums always seem to be released later than planned. Why is that? Anyway; the first full-sized album from Barbarella has finally arrived. After the damn fine EP Neon City in 2008 and a few loose tracks after that featuring their new guitarplayer we now can enjoy Quid Pro Quo. The Nijmegen foursome delivers in sexy riffs and even some dragging tempos. But the guys convince most in their tight hard-hitting songs. They propel you to exciting heights and keep a thrilling brooding tension going. But be advised the bark is harder than the bite. There is more melody and more room for different influences. Even a few radio friendly. But there is some definite gold here; just listen to the dangerous and mischievous Traitor, seductive Sparkle Plug or catchy Welcome To The Inferno. Barbarella, luscious and tempting like a biography writing mistress…

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Barbarella – I Am The Wolf

Barbarella – I Am The Wolf
Self released – 2011
Rock/Stoner
Waardering: -

Quickly after the release of the genuinely great EP Neon City of rock-formation Barbarella hailing from the lovely town of Nijmegen; the guitarplayer Remco Verweij decided to leave the band. Luckily a replacement was found in Jaap Lagerweij of The Mellotones. And with him they trucked on through the land and delivered smashing shows everywhere they came. And now they are busy recording their first full album under guidance of producer Guido Aalbers. Let’s hope it will not be as smooth and poppy as what the good man usually delivers. First taste I Am The Wolf does not give us a feeling of ease. Although Guido has released some pretty good stuff in recent times; but we will get to that a bit later on. So write down on your calendar; late 2011 a new album by Barbarella. On a sidenote; there is also a song that was born out of collaboration with local rapper Biggie Bigs. When The Shit Hits The Fan makes us relive the days of the soundtrack of Judgment Night. And those were the days!

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Barbarella – Neon City

Barbarella – Neon City
Self released – 2008
Rock/Stoner
Waardering: ****

Well; we’re still on that train that keeps circling Nijmegen like a vulture looking for some easy prey; cause this is once again where the four headed Barbarella hails from. But these guys are in no way easy prey. Rocking since 2005 their efforts culminated in their first six-track ep called Neon City in 2008. A damn fine record that mostly refers to Queens of The Stone Age but also likes to pay homage to some old grunge heroes. But these guys don’t just steamroll over you with heavy riffing; they also pull back on the throttle and head for higher ground. The quality of the band becomes even more apparent; cause the Dutch aren’t normally very good in creating space. This is where Barbarella can teach a thing or two. Just like in producing an intense 20-minute listening experience that grates, chafes and drags you along. No fillers. I might have to brush away a tiny tear. Tight stuff; this Barbarella!

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