Album Review: Wie ein Zug ohne Bahnhof by Dan Crosser
Dan Crosser’s Wie ein Zug ohne Bahnhof (2017) is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. Released under CROSSnDAWN Records in Germany, this pop gem feels like a mixtape from a friend who just gets it. It’s not trying too hard to impress—you know, the way some albums do—but instead lets its charm unfold naturally. With nine tracks that range from upbeat bops to introspective vibes, it's got something for everyone.
Let me tell ya about two tracks that stuck with me. First off, there’s “Telefon (Extended).” I mean, c’mon—how can you not love a song that takes an already catchy tune and stretches it out just enough to make you hit repeat? The production here is smooth, thanks to Demmer at the helm, but what really seals the deal are Juliane’s backing vocals on track 6. They add this subtle layer of warmth that makes the whole thing feel intimate, like someone whispering secrets into your ear.
Then there’s “Pommes Film,” which honestly might be my favorite. Not gonna lie, part of why I remember it so well is because of the title—it sounds like something random you’d laugh about over fries with pals. But beyond that quirky name, the track has this playful energy that kinda reminds me of lazy summer afternoons when life felt simpler. Christoph Belau did a stellar job mastering this one; every beat hits just right without being overwhelming.
The album cover itself deserves a shoutout too—it was designed by Kapuzinerorden and Inge Miczka, and it perfectly matches the vibe of the music: understated yet intriguing. You look at it, and you think, "Yeah, this fits."
What I love most about Wie ein Zug ohne Bahnhof is how unpretentious it feels. There’s no grand statement or attempt to reinvent pop music—it’s just solid storytelling wrapped in melodies that linger long after the last note fades.
And here’s the kicker: listening to this album made me realize how rare it is to find music that doesn’t try too hard. It’s like catching up with an old buddy—you don’t need fireworks or big gestures; the connection is already there. So if you’re looking for something low-key but meaningful, give this one a spin. Who knows? Maybe you’ll end up dreaming of Dan Crosser himself.
