a cross - a circle - a line - a disc



Klangwelt - XOIO
(2006, Spheric Music SMCD 6102)

'Okzident' is a superb opener. Two really excellent high register sequences skip over strange mangled vocal samples. The pace quickens and pulse begins to race as a steady low rhythm strikes up over Eastern tinged lead lines and wordless female vocal colouring. It reminded me a little of early Jarre especially in the rhythm and sequence departments. The title track again combines sequences and rhythms beautifully. Initially it's all rather moody and even when things accelerate there is a real feeling of menace. Slow mournful pads swell around the pulsations adding to the unease still further. Within the last third of the track the mood lightens considerably however and not for the first time recently John Dyson very much came to mind. Things become increasingly euphoric and we finish this fantastic track on a real high. 'Fun-Fair' is full of bright innocence but with a touch of melancholy. 'Bed of Clouds' starts with the sound of jets scorching across the sky and communication between the planes and control. Calmness descends as soft tranquil pads become the main feature. Slight rhythmic detail makes an entrance along with brass lead line as we float away in a relaxed state. This feeling of tranquillity continues through to 'River (for Alina)'. Piano provides the main detail and very pleasant it is too. String pads swell and the feel becomes rather cinematic. It made me think a little of Mike Andrew's more mellow works.

We float through to the next track 'Spirits' on watery effects. A lovely delicate melody strikes up (sort of half acoustic guitar and half vibes). A rhythm then ethnic sounding vocal samples are introduced next. Things get faster. Nearer the end there is even a proper section of singing over angelic pads. Must admit it wasn't really my sort of thing at all. For the most part I suppose it's a bit like Peter Mergener or G.E.N.E.

'La Bella' makes use of melodic percussives- a little like tubular bells. A jaunty little rhythm moves us forward and we continue in pleasant fashion. 'No Response' ups the pace again and we are soon bouncing along nicely whilst sequencer runs and lead lines chase each other over the beats. We are not even two minutes in and more sequences are added. There is then a little interlude where a new lead and rhythm are allowed to stand in isolation before normal service is resumed and we bound forward again. 'Fade Away' is initially quite brooding. Moody piano makes an entrance hitting the spot perfectly. Plucked strings take over from the piano but the 'feel' of the piece is maintained. Spiritually inspired sampled text puts the track in some context and serves to increase the melancholy nature of the music still further. Another wonderful track.

This album is a bit like a sandwich. The first two and last couple of tracks have power, whether that is in the forcefulness or moodiness of the music whilst the middle tracks are far lighter. Some people will like the former (as I do very much indeed) whilst others will prefer the latter. My only worry is how many people will actually like both. (DL)

David Law, Synth Music Direct, 2006

Klangwelt

O XOIO
O The Age Of Numbers
O Weltweit

compilations:
O Mystic Spirits Vol. 6
O Syntonic Waves Vol.8

label:
O Spheric Music

website:
O www.klangwelt.info