2006

Home Of Rock , April 2006

With his fifth album, Markus Rill from Wurzburg once again demonstrates why he governs the German roots music scene. If there’s anyone who has mastered his craft, it’s Rill who provides lyrics and music of astounding quality and the utmost authenticity. Trust me on this, folks, Markus’ writing is on the same level than that of the deans of the American singer-songwriter scene. As a German who spent his apprenticeship in the US, this is a comparison he has to live with - and live up to. But once you’ve listened to his new album The Price Of Sin any question of Markus’ authority as a songwriter becomes redundant.

On his newest outing, Rill relies on experienced session players to back him up. He co-produced the album with George Bradfute – a name insiders know from his work with Webb Wilder, Amy Rigby, Hayes Carll, and Joy Lynn White. Joining them in the studio were roots aces Bryan Owings on drums (Shelby Lynne, Buddy Miller, Patty Griffin), Dave Jacques on bass (John Prine, Greg Trooper, Todd Snider) and multi-instrumentalist Fats Kaplin (pedal & lap steel, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, accordion) who made a name for himself recording with Nanci Griffith, Kieran Kane, Greg Trooper, Jason Ringenberg, and Buddy Miller.

But it certainly wasn’t Rill’s intention to make a show of his backing musicians’ names. Rather he chose them for their brilliant musicianship and their ability to approach his songs with sensibility and stylistic aplomb. And he chose wisely.
These guys brought wonderful subtlety and great sensibility to the table. Although the album includes the rollicking, up-tempo bluegrass number Me & Bonnie Parker and the driving yet remorseful country-blues-gospel of Carry My Load, the bulk of the material creates a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.

Speaking of personal songs: In the opening number Singin’ In The Cemetery, Markus looks back on his deceased mother’s life with love, honesty, vulnerability, and courage. With this song, Markus and his collaborators mark their territory: Songs and stories full of emotion, insight, sobriety … and optimism. These songs point a way out of the darkness. It is no accident that standing next to songs about the anguish of the songwriter’s mind we find an immaculate love song. My Love Runs To You probably makes his beloved blush with bashfulness.
The most vivid and haunting song – in my opinion – is the wonderful quasi-title track, The Price You Pay For Sin. Although comparatively plushly arranged with cello and accordion, the song still floats with effortless ease – thanks to a beautifully engineered recording. This story about a desperate man in love who is betraying his best friend with his wife dances with expert precision on the moral high wire. An outstanding effort!

With The Price Of Sin, Markus Rill offers up his most mature album to date. Dear roots music lovers, there is no need to spend big money on US imports, you should first taste the delicacies waiting for you at home.

Frank Ipach