One thing that must be said right from the beginning is that, for most of
the tracks, it's very different to their previous collaboration 'Loops
& Beats'. It is a live album, except the last piece, the tracks being
taken from two performances and sound rather improvised. One of these
performances was in a church and great use was made of the organ!
The first track opens with chord after chord layered on top of one another
but before long a sequence can be heard low in the mix. This gradually
forces its way to the surface and mutates slowly throughout the piece,
reminiscent of Klaus Schulze at times. The second starts with synthesised
choir effects over which occasional deep space sounds shimmer. This must
have sounded awesome and somewhat spiritual in the church. The organ makes
an entrance at the five minute mark, meandering around the synth and
choral backing, well over the top but to these ears superb. More choir
effects introduce the third track and over this is layered a simple
sequence which fades away at the half way mark to be replaced by a piano
lead line, again rather meandering and lazy sounding but creating a very
laid back atmosphere. Great organ effects open the twenty minute 'Zugabe
Mit Orgel...'. It is even more OTT than before, mixing the organ with deep
bass synth backing creating an awesome slab of Gothic atmospherics. A
sequence joins in at the thirteen minute mark which is a good job as
virtually solo organ has begun to be a bit too much even for these ears.
Be warned this is heavy stuff. '... Und Ein Ende Mit Sequenzen' provides a
lighter contrast as a playful sequence creates a backing for various synth
effects and layered chords. At the half way mark the organ comes in again
and stays with the track to the end.
The final track 'Far From India Part Two' will be recognisable to anyone
who has 'Loops and Beats' as it is really a continuation of the first
track on the second disc. So to sum up. If you don't like church organ
then avoid this album at all costs. If however your tastes are rather
diverse and you would quite like to create a cathedral in your own living
room then go for it! (DL)
