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Synth Music Direct (UK)
The sound of water droplets
provides an appropriate start to the opening title track. Soft pads act like
a lonesome sigh. After a very atmospheric four minutes a tuneful sequence
starts up joined by narration which sets the scene. The sequences surge and
a slow lead line floats over the top. A collage of chaotic sounds gets
'Beasts on the Hill' underway. These then depart as a bright melodic
sequence shines through like the sun shinning between the clouds after a
storm. There are some vocal samples then the dark effects return. We are
left to float on mournful pads. A slow bass line can just be heard low in
the mix then another melodic sequence (almost like something you would find
on a Software album) rises to the surface. Beautiful but subtle lead lines
make an entrance. This really is wonderful stuff. 'Natural Shapes'
incorporates a brooding pulse with contrasting light pads and shimmers. It's
is a lovely delicate little number.
As we drift into 'Lord of Nature' things take a more symphonic twist. A
tinkling sequence takes us forwards. Virtual electric guitar gives that
added bite. A melodic lead line softens things again but even so the piece
seems to be gaining momentum as it progresses towards the half way mark.
After this the sequence sets into a sort of holding pattern before fading
away to atmospherics which takes us to 'In a Dark Time'. Bleak windy effects
and cosmic whooshes bring up images of a strange alien landscape. In the
third minute the mood becomes softer then a jaunty sequence bubbles from the
speakers. Lead touches are added, as is a steady rhythm. An even faster
sequence falls into formation alongside the first then we get some exquisite
melodic stabs that hit the spot perfectly. Further tuneful lead lines come
in, one answering the other. Absolutely wonderful - the best track on the
album so far. 'Serpents of the Den' returns us to the water-dripping cave
along with more atmospherics and narration. 'Flowing with Birds' carries on
then the pace quickens on the back of a splashing sequence. A slow rhythm
comes in providing just the right structure over which floats a lovely
delicate melody.
'The Mind Enters Itself' continues in similar mood but this time the
sequences seem to be more urgent. Additional sequencer lines and rhythms
then come in increasing the excitement still further. More narration and a
sudden crash seem to conclude the story but leave us with one final track,
'Drifting'. Initially it is all you would expect with a title such as that
but in the third minute sequences and then rhythms surge forward. Excellent
leads, one after another, complete the picture superbly. Another highlight.
(DL)
Dave Law, 2005
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