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Synth Music Direct (UK)
Axess is really Axel Stupplich from
Pyramid Peak. The opening section of 'The Alien' had the perfect qualities
to accompany the film of the same name. Deep space sounds slowly float
across the ether mixing with faint half heard vocal chatter. An early
eighties type Tangerine Dream sequence then starts up sounding like the
low approach of a helicopter. A shuffling rhythm moves into formation, as
do lovely lead touches.
The rhythm shifts up a gear and a superb rather Jarre like melodic
sequence positions itself perfectly amongst the other pulsation taking us
excitedly onwards and upwards. It's a fantastic opener. The Jarre
references could actually be used frequently throughout the disc though so
could Michael Garrison's take on this style. 'Desire' has another very
impressive, majestic, atmospheric start through which a couple of
sequences emerge. The first is a nice bass one but the second is more
melodic, fairly bouncing over the top. A minute later yet another sequence
can be heard increasing the enjoyment still further. Axel hasn't finished
the build up yet however as after another minute a nice steady rhythm is
also included then a gorgeous euphoric lead line. It's a magnificent track
of almost anthemic proportions. 'Floating' is not as laid back as the
title might suggest as we are straight into more sequences, one very deep
and low whilst the other is again melodic, starting and stopping rather
teasingly. There are lots of other little melodic touches as we get into
quite a groove. The interest is maintained throughout as more sequences
and lead lines come in. It's another excellent track. The title track is
the longest at almost twenty minutes but doesn't waste any time in getting
going. Layers of pulsations float through the air, in some ways it
reminded me of the 'Nightcrawlers'.
The drum line is understated but just right, not swamping the sequences
and allowing an excellent laser sharp melody to sparkle. I thought the
opening three tracks would be hard to beat but this is simply wonderful-
the best lead line so far placed over exquisite backing. In the seventh
minute we are given a bit of a breather as we are taken on an atmospheric
space trip full of whooshes and bleeps, a haunting lead line coming and
going. We then blast into the strongest, meanest sequences so far, the
flashing lead returning to complete the picture. With five minutes to go
we get new sequences and rhythms. This time the sound is more contemporary
though melodically it is just as strong as before. It's a great body
moving way of finishing a fantastic track. Never has twenty minutes flown
so quickly. 'The Sirius Mystery' has a rather dark brooding start. The
sequence, when it emerges, is rather restrained and tinkling fitting the
cosmic mood extremely well. Things don't remain moody for too long though
as just before the third minute in comes a bright sequence / rhythm
combination and we go into warp drive once again. Actually it turns into
the fastest paced number on the album! Like it's predecessor it combines a
modern feeling with tradition EM values very well.
'A Dream is Always a Dream' has a similar beginning to the track before-
slow and moody. A slow bass loop adds to this feeling still further as
does the melancholy lead line. This time however the pace does remain
sedate though the atmosphere is lightened somewhat in the sixth minute
with the introduction of a bright sequence. Every track here is a gem.
Axel is as accomplished in putting together dramatic sequences as he is at
creating catchy melodies but at the same time he manages to avoid things
becoming too commercially clichéd. (DL)
Dave Law, 2003
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