The Picturebooks – Home Is A Heartache (LP+CD)

The German primal blues-rock duo THE PICTUREBOOKS — featuring Fynn Claus Grabke [vocals, guitar] and Philipp Mirtschink [drums] — performs enticing blues-saturated heavy rock, with Fynn playing on obscure vintage guitars he bought from thrift shops around the world, while Philipp beats a drum set that consists of the largest possible drums that he hits with heavy duty felt beaters. The set has no cymbals whatsoever and instead includes a few self-made percussion instruments with huge chains, bells, and more. “Home is a Heartache” was recorded in the band’s garage, where they regularly refurbish and repair motorcycles and choppers, which already got them features in Easyriders (USA), Custombike (Germany), Dice Magazine (UK), Hot Bike (Japan). The album itself captures a raw, rich, and real energy combined with a soulful spiritual vibe. Songs like “Zero Fucks Given”, “I Need That Oooh”, “Wardance”, “On These Roads I’ll Die” or “I Came A Long Way For You” find an exciting balance between vigorous, stomping tracks inspired by tours through the US and Europe with Eagles Of Death Metal, Kadavar, The Answer, Monster Truck as well as moody ballads providing a perfect soundtrack for long night time drives.