Reinhard Mey, a stalwart of German music, invites you into his world with "Jahneszeiten," a captivating blend of singer-songwriter artistry, schlager charm, and the burgeoning neue deutsche welle. Released on January 1, 1980, under the Intercord label, this album is a testament to Mey's lyrical prowess and melodic versatility. Spanning just under 46 minutes, "Jahreszeiten" is a journey through the seasons of life, as suggested by the title, which translates to "Seasons."
The album opens with "Bei Ilse und Willi auf'm Land," a folksy tune that sets the stage for the diverse musical landscape that follows. Mey's storytelling shines through in tracks like "Des Kaisers neue Kleider" and "Kleiner Kamerad," where he weaves narratives that are both poignant and engaging. The upbeat "Freunde, lasst uns trinken" and the reflective "Alleinflug (Jahreszeitentrilogie)" showcase his ability to shift seamlessly between different moods and tempos.
"Jahreszeiten" is a rich tapestry of German pop, with Mey's distinctive voice and thoughtful lyrics taking center stage. Whether he's singing about the simplicity of rural life in "Sommermorgen" or the complexities of human nature in "Wir sind alle lauter arme, kleine Würstchen," Mey's authenticity and artistry are evident. The album closes with the introspective "Jahreszeiten," leaving the listener with a sense of completion and a desire to revisit the musical journey.
Vinylscout