A Challenge of Honour — No Way Out

“No Way Out” is the 2009 release, on Vrihaspati Recordings, from Dutch project A Challenge of Honour.  The project has been creating music since 2000; starting with Johan Konig.  Later Konig left, leaving Peter Savelkoul with guest musicians to man the project.  While their style and direction may have changed somewhat, the name has not.   A vast amount of releases remain, with numerous albums and EPs littering their offerings.

“No Way Out” is at best a wonderful musical representation of influences.  It has been four years since their previous release, and Peter Savelkoul has been busying himself with learning new instruments.  This can be heard manifold within the cd.  The music is a great melding of bands such as Joy Division, The Church, New Model Army and to a lesser degree Bauhaus.  Pop sounds, Martial elements, NeoFolk and classical music collide to create something interesting yet familiar.

The music that we hear is definitely a highlight.  Unfortunately the vocals and lyrics are somewhat lacking.  By lacking it should be said that the tones and phrasings are a bit monotonous.  Lyrically, it goes from scattered to heavy handed.   While it’s not in a beating a dead horse way, it seems a bit forced. That’s a shame to, because the music is a well played and produced.  If only the production of the music matched the emotions of the lyrics it would have been quite an outstanding creation.