What makes Approach by Von Hertzen Brothers notable?

Approach received critical acclaim upon release, solidifying the band's reputation for ambitious songwriting and complex arrangements. The album helped them secure a place in the progressive rock genre, influencing subsequent Finnish bands and garnering attention at festivals across Europe. Released in 2006, Approach is the Von Hertzen Brothers' third studio album, following their breakthrough record, 'Experience' from 2004. At this point, the band was establishing itself as a significant presence in the Finnish music scene, weaving together elements of rock and progressive influences while gaining a growing international audience.

Approach works well if you're into dynamic flow with emotional peaks, immersive experience for deep listening and wave-like pacing that captivates.

How many songs are on Approach?

Approach has 9 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Approach

Von Hertzen Brothers · 2006

58 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock

A lush tapestry of progressive rock, blending intricate melodies with expansive arrangements and emotive vocal harmonies.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Disciple of the Sun — This opening track sets the tone with its soaring instrumentation and intricate structure, showcasing the band's signature blend of melody and complexity.
→
Let Thy Will Be Done — With its haunting vocals and dynamic shifts, this track exemplifies the band's emotional depth and ability to balance heaviness with beauty.
→
Ocean of Mercy — This song features a powerful exploration of longing and introspection, highlighted by its atmospheric instrumentation and layered harmonies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate songwriting and strong production but remains somewhat conventional within its genre.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered vocal harmonies that intertwine throughout the tracks, creating a rich soundscape.
Several tracks incorporate dynamic shifts in tempo and intensity, with moments of quiet introspection followed by powerful crescendos.
The arrangement of instruments includes both electric and acoustic elements, often blending them seamlessly to enhance the overall texture.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic flow with emotional peaks
immersive experience for deep listening
wave-like pacing that captivates
ethereal melodies for reflective moments
for evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you

prefers fast-paced, immediate gratification
seeks standalone singles only

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2006, Approach is the Von Hertzen Brothers' third studio album, following their breakthrough record, 'Experience' from 2004. At this point, the band was establishing itself as a significant presence in the Finnish music scene, weaving together elements of rock and progressive influences while gaining a growing international audience.
Stylistic neighbors: The Pineapple Thief· Porcupine Tree· Haken