If you were to listen to the 13 songs on their new full-length Smile without knowing any better, you might think that Robocop Kraus are a bunch of young dogs, sounding so eager and energetic. However, the German indie rock/post-punk outfit started back in 1998, and this is their first fresh LP in 15 years. Perhaps that hiatus explains the sense of urgency, but also the wealth of ideas, styles, themes, influences and instruments. The music is dynamic but also somewhat dark, the lyrics are introspective and lighter, even humorous at times. Highlights galore – for example watch the entertaining videos, or listen to Cradle of Filth (about an event with the UK metal band on the night train to Saint Petersburg). This is a powerful and haunting rock record, much more than Innocent Fun. A welcome and strong comeback.
Smile, produced by Jan Philipp Janzen, is out now on CD and vinyl LP through Tapete Records.