Mind-trance-mission



E=motion - Telepath
(2005, SynGate CD-R 2064)

Electroambient Space (USA)

Bright, energetic and optimistic, Telepath gets started quickly with “Impulse.” Within the first minute, a hypnotic sequence is joined by percussion, pads, another sequence, and gentle synths providing the melody. This is a perfect track for playing first thing in the morning to get you going. It floats right into “Brain Connection,” with more great sequencing and catchy rhythms. The blend of retro and modern electronic music reminds me of Waveshape, one of my favorite bands. Later on the lead synth line reminds me a lot of Apeiron, another personal favorite. These two tracks make a great one-two punch to set the tone for the disc. “Mind Transmission” is more laid back, but still offers great synths and sequencing. Each track has a solid foundation that it gradually builds on, as Jacek Spruch gently folds one sound and then another into the mix. The middle section kicks up the rhythm just a notch for toe-tapping fun, and the energy keeps gradually stepping up from there. “Distant Vision” cools things down as a mellow melody ensues. Percussion is light and steady. In keeping with the rest of the disc, the musical temperature rises as it goes, once again building to a nice climax. Spruch keeps a steady, sure hand throughout, never going over the top. He seems to know exactly when to level off and fade in to the next track. The only track that didn’t quite work for me was “Close-up,” a moderate number that isn’t bad, but doesn’t excite either. The disc finishes strong with “Disconnection,” whose excellent sequencing had me mesmerized, just spacing out and closing my eyes as I listened the first time. Telepath is excellent.

Phil Derby, 2006

Sequences (UK)

Two CDs from Polish musician Jacek Spruch, continuing with a more rhythmic sequencer-led style of EM. If you're familiar with his earlier works you can rest assured that these carry on in the same vein & that includes 2004's "Re-Trance-Mission", there's no trance here (even if the up-tempo opener might lead you to suspect that's where it's going), just another hour of solid rhythmic synthmusic with a good deal of strident soloing throughout, excellent interplay of sequences gracing a good number of tracks while some of the slower rhythms remind of those that C.H.A.O.S. have made such good use of over the years. The fact that none of the titles were supplied on my promo copy makes a more indepth review impossible but, basically, if you like lively EM with plenty of sequencing to get your teeth into then check this out pronto. 
That also goes for his latest release "Telepath" which, basically carries on where it's predecessor left off, aside from a few littles unexpected touches such as the reflective mood of "Close-Up" & the ethnic-tinged percussion of "Distant Vision", the style is very much the same. "Impulse" opens the album with a sequence line not unlike TD's "Love On A Real Train" & then builds in the established manner into an enjoyable number although top marks go to the 13-minute "Mind Transmission" which, due to some constantly changing & inventive melodic work, keeps the listener's mind fully focussed throughout. Another plus point is that the tracks are segued to form continuous musical suites which gives both albums a good deal more substance.

Carl Jenkinson, August 2006