IN STRICT CONFIDENCE SEVEN LIVES EP MINUSWELT RELEASE: DECEMBER 13, 2004 REVIEW: FEBRUARY 2, 2005

This is more of an album and less of an EP given it's nearly eighty minute length. Mixes, mixes and more mixes of yet another triumphant song from their glorious "Holy" album. The legendary Olaf Wollschlager lends his talents once more to the band, delivering a solid remix. His involvement with In Strict Confidence continues to produce rewarding results. Other versions by Iris, Lucas Boysen and once more, Hecq provide stunning backdrops to the ISC machine.
Four, yes four new songs also make their debut on "Seven Lives". "Open Skies" features yet again, Ms. Antje Schulz on vocals. In fact, she is now listed as a member in the sleeve notes. I am giddy, I am blissed out beyond words by this little detail. Sugarfist may have to wait, but if this is what she's going to do, so be it. "Der Teufel" is the sort of song this act does that only this act could do. Impossible, almost preternatural skills are going on behind the scenes for this piece. I really find myself blown away by the song "Walking Shadows". Dennis hits his mark yet again, continuing to hone his abilities as a front man. Pushing the envelope, as always, are his henchmen Jorg Schelte and Stefan Vesper.
The initial run of "Seven Lives" comes in an six-sided digipak, once more emblazoned with the cryptic visual style which the band have chosen to use for the "Holy" era. Odd and yet familiar etchings slither about the inner panels of this EP, shrouding it in a mystery which only repeated listening can abate. A worthy continuation of ISC's musical majesty.

PETER MARKS