Jane

Release Overview

Jane's album Age Of Madness was released in 1978 under the Brain label, catalog number 60.119. This LP marks the seventh studio release from the German rock band, known for their contributions to Krautrock and progressive rock genres. The band recorded the album at Jane Studio in Sarstedt during February 1978.

Band Lineup and Composition

This album is notable for featuring the same four-member lineup that had recorded their previous album. Klaus Hess (guitars, vocals), Manfred Wieczorke (keyboards, vocals), Martin Hesse (bass guitar, vocals), and Peter Panka (drums, percussion, vocals) collaborated on the compositions and arrangements. The consistency in the lineup allowed the band to explore their sound further while maintaining a cohesive identity.

Musical Style and Structure

Age Of Madness represents a shift in Jane's musical approach. Unlike their earlier works, which often focused on lengthy conceptual suites, this album consists of nine self-contained tracks. The music blends elements of hard rock with new wave influences, while also incorporating Krautrock and symphonic textures. This combination creates a varied listening experience across the album.

Highlighted Tracks

Among the tracks, "Age Of Madness" and its reprise "Age Of Madness (Part II)" stand out for their thematic continuity. The instrumental piece "Memory Symphony" showcases the band's ability to craft complex arrangements without lyrics. Other tracks like "Auroville," "Love Song," and "Bad Game" further illustrate the diversity in the album's style and composition.

Production and Artwork

Jane took on the role of producer for this release, allowing for a hands-on approach to the album's sound. The cover design was created by the Peter Peter Team, featuring photography by Peter Peter, which complements the album's artistic vision. The visual presentation aligns with the band's experimental ethos.

Final Notes

The album Age Of Madness was recorded in February 1978 at Jane Studio in Sarstedt, Germany.