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Synth Music Direct (UK)
First Work is the re-release of the first Patchwork album, simply called Patchwork back in
1998.
During a break from Kubusschnitt but
before he became part of Free System Project, Ruud Heij joined up with
Rene Jansen. I am sure Rene was equally as responsible in creating this
superb album but it seems to me that wherever Ruud turns up the result
will be Berlin School inspired brilliance.
They get immediately into their stride with 'Synthetic Nature'. Robust
sequencing brings to mind Synco, and the percussive detail nods in the
direction of Wavestar. The 8 minute track takes a time-out at the 5 minute
mark to present tropical rainforest effects with well judges synth motifs.
An grandiose and effective way to end a more than satisfactory opening.
Two tracks weigh in just under the 16 minute mark, and the first of these
is 'In Memory of Humanity'. A strange mix of voice samples, analogue
textures and general electronic burbling occupy the opening salvos. Slowly
a sequence begins to take shape - initially just a random set of bass
notes however the entrance of percussion marshals them into shape. The
synth layers are particularly well handled - not overpowering, yet so full
of variety and interest. Generally it's slow, moody stuff however the
atmospherics at the 5 minute mark are akin to light breaking through the
clouds. A classic sequence then takes over, and by now fans of Synco in
'85 to '89 form will be well pleased with their purchase. Plentiful
helpings of Berlin School pulsations are served up to the 12 minute mark
before a delightful melodic cameo is developed to bring the track to a
close.
'Initial Timeline' starts with a tribal gathering before bass laden
textures engulf the soundstage, allowing a sequence to take shape and
drive the piece forward. Flutey synths add detail, and the occasional
chord change reinforces that this music charts the slightly more
contemporary end of sequential wall territory.
At 15:56 'Mysterious Discovery' is the longest piece. Bass resonances
underpin a rudimentary sequence which is soon fleshed out to form a
rhythmic backbone. The sequence changes little for 5 minutes producing a
hypnotic effect before atmospherics occupy the mid section. A door opens
and closes, footsteps run between the speakers, then vocoder effects
bridge to the start of the second sequential run. String synths provide
lush accompaniment and spoken samples produce a superb mesmeric collage,
complemented by expertly formed synth themes.
'Navigate' opens with more synth lushness before another choice sequence
crashes into focus. Plenty of layers are available for perusal, and the
percussion sharpens everything up to perfection. Listen out for the way
the sequence is deconstructed then jump started in the closing moments.
I'm sure this 11 minute gem will find it's way into many people's personal
favourite selection. It does have plenty of competition though, not least
the closing brace.
'Everglades' changes the mood with slightly discordant synth pads which
constantly develop into a dense tapestry of minimalistic themes. Finally
the strangely titled 'Meadow' kicks straight in with inviting rhythmics
which demand to be unleashed into a classic sequential outing. The
invitation is duly accepted as a Redshift-style bass sequence hits home
and proceeds to underline that his album has the ability to entertain and
impress right to the closing moments.
This is definitely one for sequencer fans, especially those with a
penchant for the likes of Synco's '85 to '89 album. Classic timbres and
pulsations aplenty, this should be on any discerning EM fan's shopping
list.
(Original review by GG. Slightly edited second paragraph by DL. New first
paragraph by DL)
Dave Law, 2008
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