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Electroambient Space (USA)
The Discerning Guide to Instrumental Electronic Music
I love the opening track of this disc, called “Weltenreise.” It has a
funky little bass line whose quirky rhythm reminds me of Laurie
Anderson’s “Blue Lagoon” from her Mister Heartbreak CD; not a
typical reference point for electronic music, but it totally works. Retro
elements like mellotron choirs and other electronic sounds add to the
ambiance. “Novemberwelt” is a 22-minute number a bit more meandering
and experimental in nature. Melancholy synth strings in a minor key wax
and wane slowly for a few minutes, then tribal drumming is added to the
dark mood. Quirky mechanical pulsations emerge after that, bringing a
livelier beat to bear along with a rawer, edgier sound that sounds like a
modern take on old krautrock, maybe a bit like Klaus Schulze’s energetic
solo on “Mental Door” from Totem, though not that frenetic by any
means. This track has several distinct movements, some more abstract and
minimal, some more active. This could prove a challenging listen for some,
but I like it. If you prefer a stronger retro element, the bass line, male
choirs, soft sequencing, and infectious beat of “Zeit:Los” should be
right up your alley. “Stimme im Kollektiv” is perhaps the most daring
yet, a minimal, mostly quiet abstract piece that explores a surprising
range of sounds within a certain mood and feel. The wide-ranging tracks
showcase Fern’s skill quite well in a fascinating album that works quite
well despite the differing styles throughout. One of my favorite new
discoveries, and I hope Vol. 2 is coming soon.
Phil Derby, 2009
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