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Synth Music Direct
(UK)
'Spherical Bodies' is up first and is split
into 2 parts, although index points are not used (a bit odd really). A
stuttering bass line and rich pads introduce the track. Soon a soaring
lead is deployed, a key change made and a sequence, again strangely
stuttering, is added. The beats build and we also have some overdriven
guitar. The track is broken down during the fifth minute, ethereal pads
taking centre stage. But the build is inevitable with more guitar. It's
well done but left me a little uninvolved – odd as I loved these guys at
HJ3.
The title of the next cut will no doubt get the Berlin hardcore excited
– 'Remember the old sequence'. After 2 mins of celestial bliss we do
indeed get a sequence or two, but there's no pounding the Rubycon here.
The track does have some wonderful 70s-style leads/soloing and stately
beats however, as well as brittle but dramatic digital synth stabs
(recalling an altogether different era of TD). It is a track of great
class – especially the glorious central solo - it certainly got the CD
on track for me.
We return to the cosmos for the opening of 'De Drakenberg' as shimmers of
sound spread around us, punctuated by subtle percussion. A beautiful
choral pad is juxtaposed next to a harsh and unsettling electronic wail
– this is highly evocative, it just makes you think of scary places! At
the 4.20 min mark we get a more robust beat, a faintly eastern melody and
some 'flute' soloing – it reminded me of 'Tin Drum' era Japan. This is a
moody and fine track! The piece gradually returns to its quite roots and
ends.
Symphonic washes of analogue sound, tasteful acoustic guitar and a
ticking, marimba like sequence. We have the elements for 'Analoog en
digitaal'. By the 2.30 min mark the chaps have added a second sequence,
cleanly played guitar and a very nice rhythm. We get some interesting key
changes to ensure interest, before a more analogue sequence joins the mix.
I liked the slow and steady pace here – a good track.
A hypnotic sequence and breathy pads get 'A classical Event' underway.
Supporting stabs, beats and snatches of melody/sequences soon join the
mix. The beats build, and the symphonic elements take on melodic duties.
At the 6 min mark the mood darkens as digital drones rise from the depths
and the beats are stripped back. The track descends into darkness for the
close.
'Remember the old Sequence' (a 'radio mix') is up next. Immediately a
looping, fairly subtle sequence sparks up, circled by pads and beautiful
retro solo (clearly Mr Schonwalder). The track obviously shares elements
with its namesake, but the retro aspects are somehow intensified – that
solo just sounds like perfection here!
'Meet the fear' opens with dark sound design and an ominous pulse.
Dramatic beats are launched at the 40 secnd mark alongside a marimba-like
sequence. This had the feel of Depeche Mode's occasional instrumental
moments. However, a synthy sax sound dispelled that thought quickly! The
track has a vaguely manic feel – perfect given the title!
Disembodied voices and tuned percussion seem apt for a track titled
'Korean Poems (live)'. The mood continues the unsettled feel of the last
track. A haunting analogue solo meanders behind the jittery sound design.
It's thoughtful and clever – I liked it a lot. Well, I expected to
really like this, but found it strangely disjointed at times. I loved some
tracks, but others left me a little cold. You need to hear it though, even
if it's just to hear that solo (twice!). (WP)
Dave Law, 2006
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