Trance2MoveU

Artist: The Riddler Title: Fille de la Soie EP Label: TesseracT Studio Date: November, 2010 1. Fille de la Soie 2. Cherry On The Apple Tree Because I am so impressed with his current production I picked up Goran's 1st EP. Released by the ever impressive TesseracT Studio this is a short 2 track view into his funky house self. God, The Art of Being Non seems so long ago, it's hard to believe it was done by the same guy. Whereas that was characterized by being unique I would've never thought he would do the same thing in the progressive house genre. He uses big bass and fat beats to go along with melodies that are a little...off. Deliciously unexpected. Fille de la soie- More house madness with The Riddler! Agile leads tap out a melody as the soft strings slide in the background. The bass is a deep wobbly thing, while the whole tune is bright and fun but not without a hint of darkness. Leaves me with the feeling, "Man, you shouldnta done that." Whatever that is. I tell you what I shouldnta done...eat that last piece of pizza. Damn...I'm eating myself out of a pants size. He tinkles the ivory and even manages to make a piano sound funky. You got skillz...yep that's right, with a z. Cherry On The Apple Tree- This one is more hopeful with it's oscillating strings and positive vibe. Big beats continue with some funk guitar and piano. It's a smooth ride like catching that perfect wave when all your friends were looking. High pitched leads dance around the sun with shimmering brightness as it brings everything full circle. Good, enjoyable vibe. I don't know what you did to become this good at making music in the genre; whether you made a deal with the devil or whether you have always had this funky spirit, but all I can say is keep doing it. Your music causes involuntary dancing that is infectious. Great stuff. Beatport Mdk

Artist: Tripswitch Title: Strange Parallels Label: Section Records Date: January, 2011 So....I don't know how you feel about a remix album. Sometimes they can be great if the mixes showcase different styles and expand on a track's central idea. I think we all know a particular album where the wheels came off and may go down in history as the worst remix album of all time. I won't mention any names, but they are called A. Projection. Nah, too obvious...how about Astral P? At least that album had different tracks on it. What you get here is 9 remixes of one track and thankfully the actual track in its original form. The pitfall of course would be if all the remixes sound similar. I know very few tracks that I would like to hear nine times in a row, I don't care how great it is. The only quibble I would have with the setup is that the original is at the end. I would've preferred it in the beginning so I could compare more readily. Minor, really. This is available from Beatport and you should really check their new layout. It's quite keen and even labels the tracks by what genre it is. They even do a little review on the side to let you know what you're gonna get. If they start getting funny, I might have to find another hobby. Nick Brennan's put out some great music including his first album Circuit Breaker in 2005 and Geometry last year(the album Strange Parallels originates from reviewed here). So you've got some house, trance, dubstep...this could get interesting. Strange Parallels (Purple vs Tim Healey Re-Rub)- Re-rub? Sounds dirty. Count me in. These house producers have made a saucy little track that takes some of the good from the original and puts it on...wait for it...house arrest. God, that was bad. The joke, not the track. The track is good with it's squirmy bass and groovy quality. There are uplifting, smiley emoticon touches and it's a nice way to get started. Strange Parallels (Shiloh Remix)- Another progressive house jaunt, this one takes the guitar part of the original as the base and builds around that. Love it. Afternoon sunshine and friendship bring melodies that bounce above the percussive knocking. The break is a warm sensation of cloud surfing with a moderate breeze. A new melody takes you home whether you want to go or not. Well done Shiloh. Whoever you are. Strange Parallels (Aurtas Remix)- This was Section Records first signing a young Japanese producer whose interpretation is smooth like a baby's bottom. Electric bass with emotional strings that also uses the guitar bit from the original. The bass in combination with that guitar packs a great punch and is a good afternoon ride. Nice job. Strange Parallels (Codemonkey Remix)- "Have you ever seen a star supernova? I have. I saw a star explode and send out the building blocks of the universe." This is apparently Nick delivering a dubstep remix. That's great because I don't even know what dubstep means. It's got deep wraparound bass like a dub tune, but I don't know where the step comes in. It's a drifting piece and it takes you away on cosmic winds. Slow and steady with beautiful moving images. Great job. Now I'm gonna have to start listening to more dubstep. Motherf*cker. Strange Parallels (Koan Remix)- Russian act Koan brings the tribal contigent (well, at least a little bit) into play with a very shiny lead and a breakbeat. And as is his style, he's got the layers in his corner with a very synth pop feel. A different melody comes out of nowhere and it's Erasure vs. Depeche Mode up in here. It really sparkles and holds down the groove for almost 10 minutes. The break near the end undulates in a great mixture of original synth sounds. 80's who woulda thunk it? I'm breakin out my new do. Respect! Strange Parallels (Indidginus Simulacrum Remix)- Indiginus from South Africa blows my mind with that melody right in the beginning. And yes sir, it is haunting and funky at the same time. He drops the chopped up synth in epic trance style and I believe we took a turn into the euphoric side of things. The first melody returns with the original piano melody sounding great. Loved it as well. Strange Parallels (ODT Remix)- A 303? Here? Yessir, these guys drop it and like you would expect it is filthy. Super groovy and yep...I'm dancing like noone is watching. Just having some of my homies over. What? It's not gay! The air conditioner broke and we got all hot and sweaty so we took our shirts off. I don't see the problem...Dustin! Dustin, can you hand me some of that baby oil? The other lead is metallic but plays nice with the 303. But let's face it...the 303 f*cking rules. When the break comes it's a panned electro experience and this is the first I'm hearing of the original. The final bit brings an icy pad hovering above the 303 and man am I glad I stepped in this. Strange Parallels (Original Edit)- This is what I wrote when I reviewed his Geometry album: "Cool percussion work again with a tribal feel. The soft piano melody is joined with some seriously liquid effects. When the guitar comes in I have to admit it is very pretty with a lot less cheese than the last track. The tone is a little more dark and a slight bit hopeful, just the way I like it. This is a very pretty song." I know right, pre criminal record Lindsay? 13 bucks for 10 versions of the same song? Well let me tell you...it's worth it. While most are in the progressive, house, trance genre, the standout's to me are the dubstep from Nick and Koan's take. Can't forget about the ODT 303 that's for sure. The remixes were actually remixes and not just re hashes of the original. Once you hear a song 10 times in a row it tends to stick with you. The original was very beautiful and the other artists did a great job of putting their own twist on it. I really liked it. Beatport Mdk

You should check out this guy Cybernetika...he's kind of a douche for making me wait for psy polka, but he did a track called Plasmoid that was delightful. Also maybe these would work: Eleusyn- Phantasm EP Direct Brain Access - Solar Eclipse FREE Beast303- Controlled EP Psychowave Sky Technology Liquid Jungle Mdk

Artist: The Riddler Title: Not So Funny EP Label: TesseracT Studio Date: June, 2011 1. Geroj 2. Maybe 3. Not So Funny TesseracT Studio is second only to Iono for producing really groovy and melodic progressive trance, but it's a very close second as they have been on quite the roll. The Riddler is Goran Juric from Serbia, but before that he was known to all as Talpa. Psytrance's golden boy back in 2004 he released The Art of Being Non and the bar was raised very high. After making us wait for 4 years, he promptly followed that up with the flavorless and ultra disappointing When The Somberness Becomes a Game. I thought it was over for him, but like all great artists he reinvented himself and became The Riddler. Questions was released earlier this year and like Stella he got his groove back with infectious and crazy ass wiggling music (review here). This is a little 3 track EP that continues the trend. What's with the face on the cover? Did they catch you on the crapper? Geroj- I think this means "shake that ass" in Serbian because that's what is gonna happen. Funky house beat with ear ripping bass that drips attitude. The shimmering synths cascade down like a summer's rain adding to the funk parade. The break has a sample that sounds like Russian, but I don't know. It's robotic and with the piano interlude very original and...eerie. It's a nasty groove perfect for doing nasty things. American public schools everyone! Maybe- More of the same housey style with agile synths that stick and move like a muy thai fighter. It's more of a growler with an aggressive angry edge. Funky pianos work well with the bass and it feels like angry dirty dancing. Oh yeah? You like that? You dirty animal, you want it harder don't you? How bout some of this? Oops. Not So Funny- Synths echo like a crow cawing over the forest and another dark and sinister melody whispers over all. The bass is dragged like a cavegirl, right by the hair. This one is more of a deep groove that while still makes you want to move, it's darker with less friendly melodies. Sleek and stealthy which still brings the heat. Goran you cheeky monkey! Hats off to you sir for continuing to deliver some of the funkiest sh*t from a white boy since K.C. and the Sunshine Band. Not only does it have groove, but very unique synths and style. He keeps his times short to get maximum effect. This is get your ass on the floor type tunes that cannot miss. Beatport Mdk

Artist: Wizack Twizack Title: IV Label: Ovnimoon Records Date: April, 2011 1. Lejon 2. Monolog Dialog 3. Roetter 4. Free Transform 5. Active Galaxy 6. 2 Braincells 7. Crystal Castle (with Virtual Light) 8. Nute Gunray (with Virtual Light) 9. Osirus 10. Paralyzed (with Nevarakka) Tommy. Hey, Tommy. Tommy! Can you shut it off for like, 5 minutes, I'm doing your intro. Jeez. Listening to Tommy Axelsson's music can sometimes elicit pretty frightening images. He is one of the rare breed of artist that can either drop deep into the black void of darkpsy or deliver melodic unease with his brand of twilight. This is his 4th album simply titled IV. I think Beyonce titled her album something similar so perhaps a collaboration is in the works. RnB psy? Meh, probably wouldn't work. While you may argue who is the bigger diva, there is no question Tommy knows how to craft a track. Dark and melodic forest music is his name and fear and detail is his game. Lejon- "But methamphetamine in particular got my interest and concerned me...it blows away anything else that's out there." Ever see meth mouth? Absolutely nasty. Stay off drugs kids. The first track is a mid-tempo bouncer with a galloping bass line and effects sprayed from all sides. Kinda like an upbeat Atrium Carceri. Sounds swirl in this dark forest as leads rip and howl in the darkness. He never gives you too much to start, but enough to let you know you took a wrong turn. Dark and pretty deep with a scary edge as the only melody appears at the end. Took me a while to get it, but I'm on board. Monolog Dialog- "I don't know...who am I?" More evil effects as the tide rises and the gurgling begins. He hits you with an eerie melody and it feels like Satan is laughing at you. The sample is hurried speech (Swedish?) and comes across as freaky. Another bouncer that goes by too quickly with rich detail. I like how he directs leads into pools of effects so as not to make it a totally dark experience. I'm saying there might be a light at the end of the tunnel...but it might also be an oncoming train. Roetter- With a quick cliff notes description of psytrance via the vocoder we are off. But you can't see much because the forest is so f*cking thick. Green and dripping with phosphorescence maybe you could grab hold of that melody to lead you out of here. It will only get you so far though because the canopy is very, very dense. Modulated sounds ripple as creatures bellow from the cover of darkness. Spooky, you twisted bastard. Free Transform- Acid wobbles and minor key leads twist you around. Feel that? That's the fetid breath of the troll as he plies his seductive dance. Oh God. I think I threw up in my mouth. More effects the creep you out as you fall down a hole...well, more accurately you were pushed. Synths wash over you like slime as the search for an escape continues. Hallucinatory layers finish out the track. Nice combination of forest and goa vibe. Active Galaxy- This one comes out heavier with just as many foresty nightmares. Frenzied with swirling acidic washes and bubbling darkness, he brings the thump and remember, you were pushed down this hole. The melody storms out and is blazing hot to the touch, but for me the effects were the star of the show. They're everywhere and give the feeling of being surrounded. 2 1/2 Braincells- "Just forget it" "Aw c'mon, it was probably just a hallucination." "This...is no hallucination." You better believe that sh*t. So much goes into this to make it just that. Fat analog bass sounds meander in the opening and synth screams pepper the ears as effects bubble yet again. Distorted acid leads bounce and metallic weirdness echo in the darkness. I swear I can see people's faces melting as leads go in directions I know I didn't see coming. Like tuning a radio with lots of static, but it's not annoying. Just frightening. This is what I feel like as Tommy tells his story. Crystal Castle- "Soon you'll be one..of..us." He builds the nightmare with eerie samples, spooky leads, and otherworldly effects. He changes leads so often but still maintains his vibe. Very detailed even if it is one of the most full on of the tracks. Distorted, modulated, moaning, screaming synths combine in a very effective tune. Nute Gunray- Nute Gunray, is that like the B-movie hero of this tale? You know...."Alien hordes threaten to overrun planet Earth. We need a hero. Starring...Nate Gunray!" Sure it's full on, but with his effects and where he places them, I don't care. No space is wasted as it is filled with sound, and damn if he doesn't drop a 303 in there. Washes and a running bass line keep this in twilight territory as synths shimmer in the moonlight. Very full track with a sinister goa vibe. Now that would be something I would like to see Tommy do, combine forest and goa for a full album. Osirus- This was the only track I didn't like. As per usual it was effects based, but didn't seem to have a focus. Dark themed but it just didn't appeal to me. It's ok, dude...they can't all be home runs. Paralyzed- Last track and he finishes with a bang. Full on laced with some horror movie type effects. Lasers and acid take their place and bring this to stormer level. It's full steam ahead with no looking back as the synth riff pummels the listener. Really good, like EU used to do before aliens kidnapped him and began releasing sh*t under his name. Easily the most full power track on the disc. It took me a while to get into this one. It begins slower than his usual tempo, but once you get into it you won't be disappointed. Anybody who likes his brand of dark/twilight/forest sound will recognize the scary detail invested in this. This isn't an album that hits you right away. It took many listens and then when I was giving it a go before the sun came up it fell into place. If you're looking for something to dance to, go elsewhere. I'm not saying it's not groovy, but it's the storytelling and lush atmosphere you should be clinging to. Also, in that same vein, it's not a storming wall of sound where you're blown away as he really paid attention to the details. He put a pair of headphones on the cover for f*cks sake. What does that tell you? Tells me that he doesn't give 2 craps if you dance to this, he wants you to hear it on headphones. Different, still dark and rich, but still capable of giving you aural nightmares. Hallucinatory goodness, I would say. Psyshop Beatspace GoaStore Mdk

I didn't see that coming. I still haven't heard this compilation. Mdk

Artist: Phaxe Title: Train Boogie EP Label: Iboga Records Date: May, 2011 1. Train Boogie 2. Lucky Number Thrown in my virtual basket based on his past performances on compilations, this EP has been on my hard drive for a couple of weeks. Seems like every label is going the digital route as the model for selling music has changed. What the f*ck took you so long? Certain artists release music that I must have on CD and then there are others where I would like to pick and choose. This is Kevin Josefsen who has appeared on a bunch of compilations lately. His style is drifting progressive trance in the Flegma and Nerso style with grand melodies, shiny pads, and a full, lush sound. Released by Iboga, they have fully embraced the digital market so I hope they do well. Train Boogie- "In my mind. Always on my mind." This is not a very complex progressive house track and it doesn't offer much. Short on melodies and kinda just plods forward. I really didn't like the uber-housey "Turn the world around" sample. Very thin with no surprises, what the hell happened? How are you going to make your title track this uninspiring? Lucky Number- Seems like his lucky number is 2 as in the 2nd track is waaaay better than the first. Even with the opening house beat, this is more the style I'm accustomed to from him. It bounces and shines like the cover with bright shimmering pads and soft, warm synths. Smooth break also that sees the introduction of a new lead. Good groove and melody that is very danceable. Nice stuff. Ep's seem to be a great boon to labels. I understand that the cost going into marketing, manufacturing, and printing a CD can get pricey. If you release it digitally the cost surely goes down. They get the profit of an couple track EP (which maybe the artist was just hanging on to) and the consumer gets to choose which one they like. Win, win. No question the 2nd track was easily the choice for me, but I got them both so I could review it for others. I'm such a giver. Beatport Mdk

Artist: Drunk Pharaoh Title: Grab a Beer EP Label: None Date: June, 2011 1. Grab a Beer 2. Playing with Dolls Filipe Santos with one of his many aliases is back with a free 2 track EP. Here he focuses on the not so serious side of goa trance. The key ingredient? Beer. It's been around forever and most people have partaken in the drink at some point in their lives. As a matter of fact methinks that Filipe was a little tipsy when he wrote the promo for this little treat. I've performed a drunk ramble before and this has all the hallmarks of one. Be glad he didn't drunk dial or drunk text us! Beer as a tool? Sure, people have been getting drunk with beer to forget problems, to get courage...hell they even have a name for it...beer muscles. So relax and see what he's brewing. Burps with some Nitzo melodies? Sure, why not. The title track is just a fun, simplistic jaunt not to be over thought. Playing With Dolls is the best of the two with a great beat and more layers. I see Filipe's point, not everything has to be about the mystical secrets of the universe. It's like my Dad said. If you believe in the Bible and everything that was written, it was still written by men. Men who drink too much and fart a lot. Men who check out a woman's ass after she passes by or picks his nose and wipes it on his friends robe when he's not looking. Men are flawed. Also, he's not trying to be E-mantra or Filteria and create the next benchmark in goa trance. I see this as him having an Amadeus type moment where if he wants he can create awesome music, but at the same time he can show his playful and irreverent side. Good for you Filipe, as you ask the Pharaoh to pull you finger while still managing to make a couple of pretty fun tunes. Free now with more burping! Mdk

Artist: BioGenesis Title: Land of Looming Latitude EP Label: Nutek Records Date: April, 2011 1. Bonka Boot Beats 2. BreakBots 3. BPMX I would leave it there, but "the man" tells me I can't do that. This is pure cheesetastic full on. I wasn't impressed with his debut, but this...And Gerard what are you doing within 10 feet of this steaming pile? The first clue this was going to blow was it was from Nutek. This label continues to produce subpar, generic teenage full-on with very little redeeming qualities. Number two was the appearance of CPU who hasn't had a great track since I've been shaving. The leads are annoying, stops and starts are everywhere, and the buildups...ugh. But my favorite was the sample "Do not try and fix your speakers." Unless I wasn't clear enough, I cannot recommend this. Beatport Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Footprints Label: Digital Structures Date: November, 2001 1. Secrets - P-WOLAND 2. Air play - SON KITE 3. Out of my system - VIBRASPHERE 4. Puck el pinto - QLAP 5. X- calibur - TEGMA 6. Shaken not stoerd - TICON 7. Bad pets - 12 MOONS 8. Wodny prezes - BIGWIGS 9. Flosiplascan - ETNOSCOPE Do you hear that? Listen closely. It's the sound of boredom. This is an actual photo of an artist creating this type of music. He only made it through half the track. 2001 was a different time in our little corner of the music landscape. Gone were the melodies and intricate sounds of goa only to be replaced with the unimaginative repetition of minimal. Sequencers were left running as knobs were twisted ever so gently over long track times to lull the masses to sleep. For me this is when trance was at it's lowest point. Now normally I would go track by track and let you know what I think but like politicians...they're all the same. No melodies, just pounding out the groove as percussive sounds and effects litter the track. I suppose Shaken not stoerd is closer to the progressive sound today and is actually not bad. Wondny prezes is more psychedelic than the rest and Flopsiploskan attempts to play every percussive instrument there is with some funky results. But when you can skip through a track in 2 minute intervals without much change...Houston we have a problem. I know this came out over 10 years ago when this type of trance was popular, but if you revisit this I would defy you to tell me it isn't boring. Go ahead, I'll wait. I've read medical textbooks that had more drama. Back in 2001 when this was all there was I'm sure it was pretty good so I don't challenge the above reviews. Dial up modems and the Atari 2600 were cool too once upon a time. Only for the hardcore minimal fans. Psyshop Beatspace Saikosounds Mdk

Isn't it fun to tackle stuff that you wouldn't normally review? Now I want to listen to Astral Body Builder just to see what 200 bpm's sound like. Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Extreme Noise Terror V.2 - Scumgrinder Label: Terror Lab Industries (Oh dear God what am I doing?) Date: December, 2010 1 Gameplay / Absense 2 Intruder / A-Mush vs. Stereopanic 3 Pulga Raza / Sinful Reactions 4 Safe / Xatrik vs. Brave 5 Prototype / Orca vs. Technodrome 6 Rock Steady / Sinful Reactions vs. Hiyarant 7 Psychological Warfare / Frightrate 8 B.T.T.R. / Panayota vs. Dirty Motion 9 Game Over / Excell 10 Ban Sabaii / Shehoor 11 Evolution Is Real / Wired vs. Zinx As you know, I regularly peruse the digital shops to see what I might've missed in our little corner of music. Coming across this, I noticed several artists of which I am a fan. Xatrik? Orca? Sinful Reactions? Why do I always want to call them Sinful Erections? Perhaps it is a window into my shame. Perhaps I'm juvenile. Anyhoo, always up for some good twilight madness I WHAT THE F*CK IS GOING ON WITH THAT COVER! Terror is in the name of the label and the name of the compilation? gulp. Gameplay- "I want to play a game." I know we have all heard the Saw samples ad nauseum and they ceased being scary years ago. Still, give it a chance. Ominous strings stand out here and you can feel the track assembling it's dark arsenal of acid and spooky goings on. I don't know who Absense is, but I like where his head's at. There is a buildup near the end, but it is mercifully short. Hard and rough edged with a cyber tilt, it's not very complex but it is a great start. Intruder- "Your attention please...security breach medlab level 15." Stereopanic...what did you think you were gonna get? Air Supply? Minor key shenanigans is what we've got here. That and a heavy heaping of acidic goodness. It reminds me a lot of Frozen Ghost with its abrasive leads and intensity. It's most assuredly dark themed and aggressively loud. Do not even think about listening to this if you have the hint of a headache. Whew. Pulga Raza- "Listen carefully to every word I say. There will be no repetition. Behind this strange signal there is an alien intelligence that knows all." Portugese brothers Orlando and Luis f*cking slay sh*t with this track. Tidal wave of sound and groove pummel the listener as you are deluged with acid. It fills your lungs until you're gasping for air. On separate occasions. The middle "break" is a nice bit of electronic glitch before they reload. Be careful, you are in the crosshairs my friend. Boom! Headshot motherf*cker. Safe- Nothing safe about this blast as it is full power all the way. Of course it is look at the cover...did you expect anything different? If you answered yes to that, you're an idiot. I love me some Xatrik, but in the early going it's a lot of effects and noise. Not much fun, but I'm a forgiving type of guy and Xatrik has earned my trust. Still fierce and foreboding the lasers kick in to make sure your ears are ringing. What? I know Charlie, it's really f*cking loud. This is mosh pit ready as it gurgles to a conclusion through a few starts and stops that I don't appreciate. It's a loud assault and he had me at hello. Still, I'm thinking about pressing charges. Prototype- First Arecibo Chronicles and now this? What are they in a relationship? And if they are I'm ok with that, when they make kick ass tunes like they do. Dark and brooding like a teenager who wants to cut himself it picks up and slings some acid in your face. Oh for f*cks sake, now I want to throw up. Take your skinny jeans and one eye covering hairdo someplace else twilight. Then it takes a turn into annoying town and becomes directionless...I don't know what the f*ck happened. You were doing so well. Picks up at the end, but this one didn't sit that well with me. Still shaking my head. Rock Steady- Now this collaboration has my attention. What happens when unstoppable force meets immovable object? A whole lot of this... followed by a sh*tload of ibuprofen. Man this is intense, bringing me back to the Inside the Sphere days. Acid splatters on the windshield like a weeks worth of bugs and this loud sonic wall meanders full steam ahead. The melody if you can call it that isn't anything special or really, apparent. It's twilight noise crammed down your throat like foul tasting medicine. Could've been a lot better. I cannot stress this enough...don't listen to this if you even think you might have a headache. Next Tuesday. Whew. Psychological Warfare- The name of the artist doesn't make me think that we are going to be taking it easy. And...I would be right. Metallic screechings and scratchy leads blare their noise over the loud, galloping bass line. This music is little angry my friends. What the? He was supposed to be a little angry guy, and he is..some one just stole his nun chucks. Now he's just going through the motions. Like this track. B.T.T.R.- BTTR? B*tch try to relax? Believe that trance rules? However you want to spell it, it all means loud. Intense and crazy rhythms with searing leads and a howitzer of laser volleys. There really is no rest for the weary as the power has the force of a nuclear blast. Nothing pretty here. I think they just put Vibe Tribe in the wood chipper. Yep, there they go. Game Over- People this compilation has definitely shifted from stalking twilight to pitch black darkness and serial killing. It's like heavy metal with synths over a trance beat. Driving and of single-minded purpose. This one is at least less chaotic...maybe taking you into the mind of a serial killer without actually watching them do the deed. Only one melody (and I use the term loosely) and it screeches like I just rocked over a cat's tail, but I like it. But with samples like "Game Over" and "Ultimate Destruction" this track ain't planting daisies. Unless you are underneath it. Ban Sabaii- Yeah, welcome to the funhouse where choosing the wrong door will have some pretty nefarious consequences. Metal picture? Pinhead raping Freddy Kruger. Scary effects with acid stabs pique my interest, and it sounds like the lead is being dragged behind him like a bloody corpse. And just like in the movie there is no escape. It stomps with malicious intent as synths squirly in nature splatter in all their horror movie glory while metallic screams echo in the torture chamber. Dark, dark, dark. This is gonna hurt, isn't it? Evolution is Read- Perhaps maybe, just maybe a downtempo track to sooth frazzled nerves? Dream on. The bass line is on a rampage and the acid cannons are locked and loaded. High energy (really?) with some stutter steps that are build-up like, but at least you get some semblance of respite. Don't blink though cause it's right back in the line of fire with a heavy groove. It peters out, but don't you know they are just setting you up? More intense acid heavy sounds and this was a great track to end on. That is some scary sh*t. Every evil movie incarnation I have ever seen appeared while I was listening to this. At some point I thought this was going to devolve into darkpsy madness and you can tell where the shift occurs. Perhaps it was an excuse for these artists to throw noise on a track as the bass line rambled away. Sometimes the collaboration between darkpsy and twilight artists was pretty cool. All of it is really intense with screaming leads loud and uncaring. So if you don't want that move on. Although if you see the cover you know what the f*ck you're in for. That guy's skull ain't cracked by design. If you like twilight music this might be a little hard for you, but if you love all things dark, then get your black on, draw your pentagrams and let's get some wine coolers! What? Goastore Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Syntonized Fields Label: Midwaystation Records Date: July, 2009 1 Last Warning / Digicult 2 Hallucination Generation / MR Peculiar 3 Another Dimension / Suria vs. Holophonik 4 Black Spiral / Holophonik 5 Psycho Acustics / Rastaliens 6 Sonic Solutions / Cosmotech 7 Just Trying / Full Propulsion 8 Space Travellers / Menog vs. Holophonik 9 The Miracle Buddha / Yonilinga Grand opening, grand closing. Wow, that was fast. I know it's tough to make it in this business and unfortunately this label learned that all to quickly. This was their only release, but they seemed to have gathered an impressive list of characters. To honor them I will review their contribution to the psytrance scene. Last Warning- "I dream I'm floating on the surface...of my own life. Im on the outside looking in. Watching it unfold. Observing." Avenida de Belgica and Out of This World were superb full-on albums from this duo. And they pick up where they left off with a floating tune that drips with emotion. Thick with dreamy layers and ample twists and turns. Did I mention the lasers? It finishes strongly with great synth work. What an opening! Hallucination Generation- Dustin is one of the best producers of intelligent full-on today with Mind-dala and the almost perfect Infinite Evolution. This is a driving tune that sometimes drifts but is more straight forward. I'll be honest, I was hoping for something more. Tune left me wanting as it just went...well, straight. Talk to Wizack Twizack, I bet his mind is a landmine of the bizarre. My idea of hallucinations has a few more curves, monsters, talking monkeys and violence. Another Dimension- Logical Evolution was an awesome album from way back in 2004 so I gotta wonder where these guys have been hiding. Laying down a track with one of the co-founders of the short lived label, they come out swinging. Lasers, running synths, and rocket ship take offs. Groovy as hell and nobody lets loose with the sticky icky like the Suria boys. And man this doesn't stop. Great track! Black Spiral- Wow, this one was deliciously layered with effects and percussive elements. Spiraling (that was unintentional) leads that rise and fall and hardly a chance to breathe. Melodies are plentiful as he switches leads like fat men switch pants. Good for you sir! Psycho Acoustics- "Psycho acoustics is the study of the perception of sound." I know it's in their name, but their tracks seem to have that alien feel. Especially this one. Otherworldly effects are all over the place. Some of the sounds remind me of Pitch Black. The middle gets a little boring, but the flow is good enough that it doesn't seem that bad. It's dark and eerie, just the way I like it. Only at the end is a modulated lead supplying some melody, but it is tasty indeed. Sonic Solutions- I just noticed that this one and the previous tracks are also compilation names. I don't know who you are Mr. Cosmo Tech, but you've got a tough act to follow. And you did your best, but this just ain't the goods. It's full-on with out any of the depth of the last few tracks. Not bad, just needs some more seasoning. Just Trying- "And when you do get your hands on one of these magic black boxes, take the time to just turn it on and play." Yes that's true but it also helps to read the manual so you know what the f*ck you're doing. Like the label, this artist has been one and done. Maybe he had other interests or had a kid and incurred more responsibilities. I dunno, but this track got on my nerves. The lead was annoying and the track itself didn't have any real direction. Full on the whole way and very thin. Space Travelers- "Planet Earth has been visited by extra terrestrial travelers." No kidding, doesn't this prove it? Daniel and Ivan come together with synths that sound like concrete grinding atop more concrete. The distorted lead snakes this way and that, and it has its stable of acid bursts, but it feels a little empty to me. Miracle Buddha- "And you step into a garden that is actually quite familiar." Maybe, but all I can think of now is holy f*ck it is hot in this desert. Goats as far as the eye can see and I swear if that camel spits at me again I'm gonna carve him up like Han Solo did the Taun Taun. I feel like I need to kneel down for afternoon prayer as the flute blares form the mosque's minaret. Face the east bro. Your other East f*cktard. A nice breakbeat downtempo mixture of real world instruments in the first half and electronics to finish up. Enjoyable. That wasn't bad. There were some pretty good tracks in here with only a couple of fillers. Sad to see a label go when they had such a promising start. I would love to see Suria come back with something strong and Digicult and Rastaliens continue to impress. Obviously not essential, but some of the tracks will get you there. Psyshop Beatspace Saikosounds Goastore Mdk

Artist: Cyrus The Virus Title: Virtuoso Label: Vision Quest Date: July, 2007 1. The Gathering 2. Quantum Mechanics 3. 2 be or not 2 be 4. Virtuoso 5. Acid system 6. All I need 7. Kingdome of heaven 8. Innocence 9. Out of time This is the 2nd album from Jan-Willem Bot and if you look at the surface of things it is just another full-on album. Shanti Matkin? Pop Stream? Atomic Pulse? I don't think you can get any more full-on than that. I mean Vision Quest released it and they have a compilation called: yep you guessed it "Fresh Full On Trance." Also, can you really call it an artist album if most of the tracks are collaborations? Still, I somehow keep coming back to this. Call it a guilty pleasure. Now I'm not going to blow smoke up your ass and tell you that this redefined the genre blah, blah, blah. Cause it in no way does that. But I will tell you that there is a level of detail in most of the tracks that you don't normally get in today's full-on. Got Ya! This is pretty much color by numbers full on. The Gathering- Ahhh, the gathering. If you ever wanted to see the largest assembly of white trash in one spot then this is a must see. Usually held in the middle of nowhere ICP freaks congregate for a festival of fun. Kinda like psy festivals. Without the incest, unemployment and faygo. See any CEO's in that picture? Of course you don't. The first track is a collaboration with Shanti Matkin. Is that him singing? I've heard this "song" in other tracks, but I have no idea who it is. The Arabic sample sets the mood as the tabla is struck. The only remarkable thing about this track is the synth at the end. Super powerful and engaging as it streams over the running bass line. Great? Nah, not really. Quantum Mechanics- "We need a new realm, a new vision. We need a new spiritual way of understanding the nature of what it is to be." Quantum mechanics is a heavy subject which reminds me of a class I took at university called Quantitative Analysis. It was tough and I was elated to get outta there with a D. Maximum respect goes to Sebi for his 2003 album Respect which I thought was brilliant. This one is deeper with more layers and a thicker sound. Plenty of synths vie for attention as it gets pretty groovy. The break and samples are big pluses here. Good stuff. 2 Be or Not 2 Be- I hate it when people don't spell out the words. Why stop at 2, why not just type b for be? Just a pet peeve. *Pulls big boy underwear on and continues review.* So here you get a triple play of full-on artists with Jan and the first lead gets the life strangled out of it. Very poppy with chopped up synths but the break shines as a new lead swirls underneath. It's slick and demands someone twist the cut-off knob. As one synth melody comes another one goes. It's very smooth and what I would call a guilty pleasure. Virtuoso- Virtuoso is another in the growing list of "words that are thrown around too casually department." Like special. Or sex addiction. See what I mean? Do we honestly think he is a virtuoso? He can't even put his hat on straight. Quick, get some water, he's on fire! I would say this was pure full-on, but the samples are interesting and the leads are very active to keep it fresh. Also, it has pretty good pace. Don't throw away your U-recken disc, but we have all heard a lot worse. Acid System- See, here he goes with that nimble lead of his. It's dominant right into the break as new melodies slowly germinate (took a plant biology class) like a rebirth. I liked it...it was not too complex and went by quickly. All I Need- Oh f*ck. Hear that synthesized voice? That can only mean that the bizarro version of CPU is on the track. That is the only explanation. You cannot tell me that the guy responsible for Computer Error is the guy making music today. "All I need?" You need to stop putting out sh*tty music. I wonder if this will help me sh*t? Yes it will. Kingdome of Heaven- The sample is definitely futuristic and I would've typed it like I normally do, but I heard it, and I still don't understand what I heard. The only computer class I had in high school, I failed so that put an end to my computer study. Give me a break, it was when the language was Pascal and Basic before the intarweb. Full-on to the bone with chopped up choir pads and 4 on the floor tempo. Stop me if you think you've heard it before. Innocence- More full-on bass line and drifting pads to start things off. The hi-hats jump in and he snaps his lead like a belt. The break is pretty deep and comes across as pretty emotional. The best on the disc. Then it's right back into the bounce. Good stuff. Out of Time- The writing is on the wall gentlemen...your track is...what's the word I'm looking for? He's good with the leads, I'll give him that. Also, makes the most out of a his breaks. I think he has talent and remember this was done over 4 years ago. Doesn't hold up well however. Full-on all the way. It's decent, but the only problem is there are like 872 other acts that sound the same. Virtuoso? Uh....no. Psyshop Beatspace Saikosounds Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Wingmakers Label: Dragonfly Records Date: October, 2004 1.Silicon Sound – Wired 7:57 2.Laughing Buddha & Pogo – Dragon Wings 7:40 3.Dickster & Pogo – Try This 7:48 4.Tristan & Pogo – Freakin' Out 7:36 5.Graham Wood & Franco Rossi – Resurge 9:05 6.Prometheus – Golden Triangle 8:07 7.Quadra – Alien Life Form 7:42 8.Wingmakers – Phoenix Rising 8:30 9.Polaris & Hopi – Wise Man 7:58 Dragonfly Records has to be discussed when talking about great labels in the old days. Reading their Discogs page is like a whose who in Goa Trance so they knew how to release some great stuff. 2004 was a time when full-on was king and this compilation was one of the last things they released. Their website although operational hasn't been updated since 2007, so like the new Astral album, don't hold your breath. I heard this when it was released, but I wanted to give it another go to see if it still held up. Compiled by Pogo it is the first in a so far two part series. The second being released by Nano Records 3 years ago. Wired- Pure Analog was always a special album for me as it was one of the first that introduced me to this genre. The fact that it was pretty damn good doesn't hurt. Johannes is able to create really descriptive music that tells vivid tales. This however is not his best effort. Whereas the tracks on Pure Analog were beacons of creativity, this seems to just coast by. Not surprisingly though the break is a dreamy trip that really has beauty with its pads and effects. The mood is eerie and the lead at the end isn't bad at all. The rest though, doesn't hold up. I think we all know he has done better. Dragon Wings- "It's like you come on this planet with a crayon box. But it's all in what you do with the crayons, the colors that you're given. And don't worry about drawing within the lines or coloring outside the lines, I say color outside the lines, you know what I mean, color right off the page! Don't box me in, we are in motion to the ocean, we are not landlocked I'll tell you that!" Where the f*ck were these? Not in my box of 64. Ahhh, this is much better. Jeremy and Jamie come together for pure British psytrance. It's driving and deeply psychedelic. Effects shimmer and the pedal is mashed to the floor. You can see this style represented in the next installment of the series. Long and evolving to put you in a true state of trance. Try This- "Dude you gotta try this!" Uh, no. No I don't. This is why blondes should only be allowed to live on the first floor. Dick Trevor and Jamie deliver another psychedelic gem. Bass sweeps and reverb effects cascade all over you like a waterfall. If you're looking for some sunshine look elsewhere as this is a dark rumbler. Not a lot of melody to be had, but still pretty deep. Freakin Out- "Holy Crap I am freakin' out!" Pogo again? Hey, superstar...if you want to drop multiple tracks, put out an album. Which I would buy because of your talent. This is more subdued, with a bunch of effects. My favorite part was the sample in the beginning. I can't believe that show has been on so long. You guys are old. Resurge- "How are you feeling? Psychedelic?" Umm, yeah, with his accent I am having a real Hostel moment. At first I hated this track because I was all about the go, go, go. Whattaya want, I was a dumb kid. This is really complex and deep with loads of effects and numerous shifts in focus. There is some goa flavor here and the break has that truly creepy sample of a scientist asking me how I'm feeling. If you allow yourself to delve into this it's quite good especially with that funky breakbeat. Golden Triangle- His latest album Spike was underwhelming like a vegetarian pizza. You know you're all set for the pepperoni and sausage, but when it comes, nothing but spinach. But this was over 7 years ago so...you know...retro start. It's very techno heavy with an industrial slant. Effects dominate as it crawls along its psychedelic path. I like it more now than I did then, but I think we've established that I was stupid back then. Alien Life Form- Ido has been fairly prolific with his full-on style and his album Serotonia was out near the same time. Like that album, this is some of his better stuff. Four on the floor with sweeps and echoes in true Pogo style. Did he help you with this? The break is another exercise in expansiveness, not in duration, but in feel. The lasers fire at will right up until a lead has had enough and ups the groove factor. The pulsating synth at the end is a nice touch. Really good track. Phoenix Rising- I recognize Pogo and Dick Trevor in this group of 4, but that's it. It's another full steam ahead track with a loud lead moving frantically above some effects. The layers begin to stack up before it breaks down and reorganizes. It of course comes back, but it doesn't really hold a lot of interest for me. Instead of rising, this phoenix seemed to have to be coaxed out of retirement. Wise Man- Polaris again. Like I said before, I wanted to like him as an artist, but his crappy music kept getting in the way. Pure generic full on. I think the less said about this the better, don't you? I think I actually appreciate it more today than I did when I first heard it. True British psychedelia like the others before me have stated. Some really good tracks and some I don't ever have to hear again. If you liked this, check out the 2nd one, it's even better. Psyshop SaikoSounds GoaStore Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Network Label: Nano Records Date: June, 2005 1. Uberstar / Allaby 2. Dr. Freakenstein / The Commercial Hippies 3. Big Dipper / AMD 4. Real Stuff / Aphid Moon vs. Laughing Buddha 5. Welcome To The Future / Headroom 6. Hoax Trigger / Manmademan 7. Unbelievable / Hydrophonic 8. Coral / Scoofy 9. Mental Master / Polaris I just sat through a Jennifer Lopez movie about having a baby. Voluntarily. Solely to remove it from my DVR which means that I actually chose to record it in the first place. Nobody to blame but myself. Sure it had a couple of laughs that I could appreciate now that I am a parent, but it could've been written by a fourth grader. Every cliche you can name was in this. Single successful woman meets mysterious stranger and falls in love only to have to overcome her own hangups. Seen it a million times. And yes, when she was brand new I was all over the J-Lo kool aid. Now that she is on American Idol (a show I have a healthy hate for) her bitchiness makes me want to put my foot in her over sized rear. So as you can imagine I am not proud right now. I feel dirty. But not the good kind of porn dirty...no, it's more like the caught by mom in the bathroom not combing your hair dirty. Nano records has a lot to be proud of. They have released some of the best full-on out there. Protoculture, The Commercial Hippies, Aphid Moon to name a few. It's groovy and intelligent and proves that it can be done. And at a time when generic full-on was at its height don't think that was an easy thing to accomplish. Sure they released the boring Fearsome Engine nonsense, but hell, I still put my son's shoes on the wrong feet sometimes. Uberstar- Not that one? Matthew Allaby hasn't released an album to my knowledge, perfectly content to skate along the periphery with compilation work. This is a good track to start things off. It's driving without being overly complex. You know the type, no real melody to key on, but you can feel what the artist is trying to say? It's a drifting track that has oodles of atmosphere. Not light, but not intensely dark either. Liked it. Dr. Freakenstein- "Let us understand one thing doctor. These are not theories. I have successfully proved every point over and over again in my laboratory. You want me to believe that you've produced these...things?!?" Love me some Commercial Hippies! These guys have the Midas touch as their two albums were superb. With a dirty bass lead and effects the menagerie begins. It rumbles just beneath the surface creating a dark feel, like something is behind you. Can't see it, can't outrun it, but you know it's there. Synths percolate like coffee brewing and with no real melody line they manage to blow you away with a dark stormer. Bravo gentlemen! Big Dipper- "He was trying to spread a little love and joy together..." All men want to do that. It's called hooking up. Big Fish was a great piece of work, but that was still 2 years away when this was released. It gallops along in full on fashion with sounds echoing on all sides. The sample is extensive but not intrusive as the track rolls on. Not super powerful, but still a good effort. Real Stuff- "I don't wanna bring you down, but like, let's try to sort the real from the trip." Jules is the man with several strong albums and this was before Jeremy released the impotent Sacred Technology. This is a dream team that brings forth a churning track with a nimble lead that soars. The break is an exercise in ominous and uncertainty as a new lead shimmers with loads of delicious reverb. The end is a little anticlimactic but still one of my favorites here. Welcome To The Future- "The future begins today ladies and gentlemen. More sophisticated, more intelligent..." This is Adam Metcalfe and he released a great album called Artelligent a few years back that I urge everyone to pick up if you can. Plenty of effects over a rolling bass line as he places sounds in all the right spots. It has a techno vibe to it with samples and changes in tempo. With numerous twists and turns it turned out to be a very interesting track that begs more listens. Hoax Trigger- Never been a fan of this project. Well, I liked their goa period, but after that it was one thick slice of boredom after the next. Between the robotic "you don't stop" and the guitar riffs it takes all I've got not to just skip this sh*tshow. I'll give them this, it is groovy, but I need more than that please. Meh, it's not terrible...maybe I'm just being a grump. Unbelievable- "Are these real." Umm...no. No they're not. What the f*ck is wrong with you? Stripper with Daddy issues or niche porn star? You make the call. Only a matter of time before the Tacon brothers and co-owners of the label had their say and they do a pretty good job. This compilation would be a year after their Aquabatics album. It's a lead that sizzles right into the break which has a sci-fi theme. Very appealing and descriptive as they set you up for the finale. Great track. Coral- This is what I think of when I hear the word Coral. She was on the tenth season of Real World back in 2001 but that's how old I am. I remember the first couple of Real Worlds MTV forced upon us. Sure she was a bitch and her forehead was actually a five head, but those boobies...it's like crack to a young guy. Scoofy's undulating synths grab my attention right away, and you could be scuba diving off the Great Barrier Reef. The break is a treat that is very vivid as another lead dances out to finish it up. Pretty good stuff. Mental Master- "Elevate you to a spiritual plane." See I always wanted to like this artist, but his boring repetitive music got in the way. However, here his track starts with a very drifting electric guitar. Just wavering in midair. Sure it's over the same bass line you've heard a million times, but the sum of the sounds is greater than the individual parts. Dreamy and mellow full-on which works well for the last track. Solid compilation with good tracks surrounding some really good ones. The vibe is futuristic with a dark feel that all the tracks have in common. This was done over 6 years ago and still holds up. Recommended. Psyshop Beatspace SaikoSounds GoaStore Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Quantum Label: Free Freak Music Date: July, 2008 1. Redefine Reality / Badbug 2. I cant sleep / Sensifeel 3. Makkrokosmos / Suncollector 4. Staralliance (Purple rmx) / S-Range 5. Further steps to infinity / Solar Spectrum 6. Forgotten (Deep rmx) / Nasa 7. Stouni / Mirowsky 8. Olimpia / El Zisco 9. Electric Morning / Celles Free Freak what? Never heard of this label, but always being on the hunt for a good groovy progressive record I stumbled upon this. Some names are easily recognizable like S-range of course, but most are unknowns. Redefine Reality- Great my kid is still asleep from his nap. It's f*cking 7 pm! Let me redefine my reality. Up until 10 or 10:30 with him begging him to go the f*ck to sleep. Who the hell takes a nap for over 4 hours? See Samuel L. for more funny sh*t. http-~~-//www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeKxIaG_f_c&has_verified=1 This was an ok opener, with some nice groove. Nothing more, nothing less. I Can't Sleep- "Help me to love you" You know what helps me sleep? Knocking out a few knuckle children. Too much info? Just sayin. Everyone knows Philipe Sencier as he has been doing his thing since before you kids got out of high school. His track is a bouncy little diddy with some female vocals giving it a house influence. It's not intrusive at all, just smooth and it's hard for house to do that at times. Groovy. Makkrokosmos- Some of you might close your eyes to the obvious code, but not me. Mine are wide open. Think I don't see the three k's in the title? Racist. I would put a gif up of the little boy screaming, "That's racist" but I've already used him. No repeats. Never heard of this guy, but aside from being a flaming racist (facts not checked, proven, or accurate) he delivers a pounding beat. Slow and steady with sounds flowering like the first day of spring. But unlike Spring, this is cold and delightfully desolate. It's fairly minimal but also not so much that it can't carry you to outer space. Very enjoyable. Staralliance (Purple Remix)- This is a remix of Anthony's Space album and while I didn't really care for the original, this remix ain't bad. It combines spacey synths with some bongo percussion even if I felt it went on a long time. I mean, 9 and a half minutes...but there are some key changes which I enjoyed. If those were more of the focus I think it would've been better. Still good. Further Steps To Infinity- This is the progressive side of Mr. Rastaliens and it starts off like a great track. It's dreamy with sounds arriving ever so gently and then fading away. The groove is tight and the synth melody fits like a bug in a rug. When it shifts focus about half way through the percussion is in the spotlight and I felt that went on a little long as well. More than a little long actually. C'mon Ralph, hit another preset! He switches it up at the end, but too late to fill the enormous hole in the middle. Drive a truck through that boredom hole. Forgotten (Deep Remix)- "I believe in the third eye or what the Hindu's call the gyananakashu" Is that what they call it? What do they call the third nipple? Mikkel released his debut album as Nasa in 2009 called Unique and it had some pretty good tracks on it. This is deep churner with some balls. Juicy bass and intruder alert leads drive the point home as washes flitter by. The final bit is a funky affair and this is my favorite on the compilation. Stuoni- Yeah I don't know who he is either grandma. Now how bout some of that meatloaf? When I tell you that there is absolutely nothing remarkable about this track you should believe it. Fill...ERRRRRR. Olimpia- Born in Chile but moved to Germany? What the f*ck? Were you in the military? I used to live in North Carolina, but when I moved it was to the next state over. Don't like Argentina? Yeah, I hear ya. Too many nazi's. Off topic...well, more so...but I swear judging by his Discogs pic you were in Clerks. True story? I'm not even supposed to be here today! As far as the track goes..another sleeper. And I mean that in the "man what could I use to make me go to sleeper?" Yeah, like that kid. Electric Morning- Another unknown artist, but their names are on Discogs. I told you I was lazy. What starts as an electro snoozer...becomes a groovy bit o bizness. I could do without the stabs, but the sounds are nice and the other percussion keeps the flow going. I feel like Pitbull should be singing over this. Nice close. So this was worth it. It's not the best bit of progressive I have ever heard, but it was different enough sounding in most parts to be an enjoyable listen. Some nice funky and melodic moments that passed the time. You could do a lot worse, people. Psyshop Beatspace Saikosounds GoaStore Mdk

Artist: Lost Buddha Title: Untold Stories Label: Phototropic Records Date: March, 2011 1. Transfiguration (Anti-Gravity mix) 2. Lost in a crystal sphere 3. Psyramid (Live mix) 4. Tabernacle 5. When the universe was created 6. Southern Oracle 7. Ataraxia 8. Lost in paradise 9. Mysteries of the women Stop me if you've heard this one...I'm surprised nobody has reviewed this yet. Filipe has long been in the scene and has released so much great stuff (a lot of it for free, hippies) that I will merely direct you to his Discogs page. Maybe it hasn't been reviewed because these untold stories were released awhile ago. So, technically I guess these stories have actually already been told even though the tracklist is slightly different from the original release. These are tracks from 2004-2007 and it was only recently that the original files were found and given a fresh coat of sound paint. Now I can't tell a Lost Buddha from an Amithaba Buddha but what I do know is great music. Anytime Filipe deciedes he wants to release some goa trance I will be first in line to check it out. He has great skill creating melodies and swirling layers that I can't get enough of. The cover is simple with beautiful colors created by another talented individual, Ivan Richpa (he of Neogoa fame.) Transfiguration (Anti-Gravity mix)- "Maybe I'm dreaming with my eyes open. Which means, maybe I'm awake....dreaming I was asleep." Deep, dude. Think about that, truly a chicken and egg scenario. Quick with soft pads and racing synths that tumble in waves like surf. There is a delectable floating quality in the breaks and a powerful attack when all the leads come out to play. Mystical sounding as he jumps from melody to melody without losing the atmosphere. Lost In A Crystal Sphere- Don't fart in that thing...no escape. As I've said before, Filipe doesn't believe in long elaborate intros as he comes out swinging his 303 hammer like Thor on a ecstasy bender. Groovy times 10 as the layers wash over you...so lush. The break combines crawling electronics with the Indian flute giving a spiritual vibe to an outerspace track. The end isn't super, but it maintains it's strong focus. Psyramid(Live Mix)- Live? I can't tell...I don't hear chicks screaming or the sound of grandma's bloomers thudding upon the stage. Maybe that doesn't happen at a show. I dunno. But I reviewed this track here. on his EP of the same name. So I won't go into it here, but let me say it is one of my favorite tracks by Mr. Santos. Full of power and melody with a f*ck you attitude. Asian strings and bubbling synths usher in a nitzho kick. Man he was bringing it back even on this release! Dude, are you using an accordion sound to make a goa melody? Nice of you to give Weird Al some work. He just continues to weave leads upon each other without sounding abrupt or foreign. This has a delicious sunshine feel as that 303 ripples its way across the track. He comes full circle for the final push as he lead shuffles yet again. Cool thing is it never sounds cluttered or as Salieri would say...too many notes. Wow, that's a lot of notes. When The Universe Was Created- How about...no intro. Like the track name indicates the effects open up the beginnings of the universe. Melodies twinkle here and there before a dominant lead scrambles leaving flames in its wake. I would say this track is a bit more drifting, but still brings the intensity. Another gold standard. Southern Oracle- Probably didn't mean this one, huh? The only thing this oracle sees is a trailer littered with empty beer cans. Now you can find this track in 3 (now 4) places. On the Ataraxia EP, on the Golden Vibes compilation and the State of Spirit comp. That should tell you about its grandeur and staying power. Rich melodies sometimes straying into the nitzhonot camp combine with a heavy beat and a strong undercurrent of spirituality. It's loud and in your face, but never fails to please. Enjoy the story and give in to the layers. Ataraxia- I reviewed this here but if you're lazy like me I will just paste what I wrote... "If you want a job done right, I have to do it!" This one is steeped in the goa feel and all its reverberating glory. The melodies drip with sunshine shining like a searchlight, once again moving in and out. The break only drops the beat as the mysticism continues. Each lead has its own sound, making it more distinctive as if they are all actors in a play. This is high power that leads to a spiritual high. Superb. Lost in Paradise- This can be had on the Pyramidal Trancendance compilation and it is another cracker. More bouncing melodies and a playful Nitzho feel. But like he has always done, gone is the cheese and all that's left is substance. Dressing this track in layers like a toddler venturing out into his first winter wonderland it's beautiful to listen to. Ever seen a Christmas Story? No? God forbid he had to take a sh*t...no way he would make it in time. Truly, I am adrift on solar waves during this intricate journey to paradise. Mysteries of the Women- The leads here shimmer like the Northern Lights and instantly I feel like he teamed up with E-mantra. What are the mysteries anyway? Why they can hold a grudge longer that you can hold a job? Why they can tell you they're ok when inside that mind is more theorems on why you f*cked up than a geometry class? Or maybe, just maybe it's how they control the world with solely a pair of boobs. And make no mistake, they have all the power. This is danceable melody at its finest with more layers than your cousin's wedding cake. It drifts, it bubbles, it screeches...home run baby. Does the fact that I have heard all these tracks before make this non-essential? I don't believe so. The recent Space Tribe offering Continuum Vol. 1 is a best of, but I didn't like all of those tracks the first time I heard them. Maybe not a fair example. The Alienapia album Goapocalipsis had 3 tunes on compilations that were heard before and that is a modern day classic. This disc was awesome as well sounding very old school. The fact that he can get so much out of equipment that is now obsolete is a testament to his skills and his ear for how to construct a song. I love this release and am pleased that Phototropic (which he has a history with) finally released it. Goa trance through and through. Do not hesitate. Psyshop Beatspace GoaStore Mdk

Thank you Ionized...I think The gifs served a purpose. As I have mentioned many times before, I used them to spice up boring text. As far as I know it hadn't been done before and it seemed to awaken some interest in the review section which was severely lacking. Whether you loved it or hated it, you noticed it. I just tried to entertain and make people laugh. Hmmm...maybe I should do a poll and see what the people want? But this ain't about me, it's about this glorious piece of musical art which we have the privilege to enjoy over and over again. Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Malfunktion Part 01 & Part 02 Label: Dropland Recordings Date: October, 2010 and March, 2011 Part 01 1. Madworm Experiment - Earworm 2. You Go Bonzai(Magneto Remix) - Smashed 3. Out of Time - Terraformers Part 02 1. Bankai (2K11 Live Edit) - Ex-Gen 2. From Ashes - Poizon 3. Psychoslut - A-Mush Dropland is a Spanish netlabel that focuses on digital releases. Their sh*t is available most places digital stuff is sold including iTunes and Amazon. I heard and reviewed the new Geko EP and was less than impressed, but not being one to deny a second chance I picked these 2 EP's up and let's just say this time around I was all smiles. If you like the twilight sound, this will not disappoint. Madworm Experiment- Max from the USA has never disappointed with his intense and insane brand of twilight psy and brother he isn't going to start here. 4 on the floor at a blistering pace with acid galore...it's getting sticky up in here. The head keeps bouncing throughout this delight as it is coated in dark and eerie atmosphere. You Go Banzai (Magneto RMX)- Who knew this poor kid had it in him? Magneto delivers a fabulous remix. Wait, I don't know that it's a fabulous remix as I haven't heard the original, but it is one hell of a track. Another bumping tune with plenty of effects and acid to wash it down. The final break is replete with cyber sound effects and is poised to hammer the final spike into your coffin with a metallic bouncing lead. Good show old boy! Out of Time- This one is slower in tempo without a real melody to follow, just a bunch of studio magic. The bass line after 3 and a half minutes is quite funky and the rest is whooshes and other effects. Metallic and clanking I guess you would call it. It has it's Artifakt moments so it is interesting and also it's nice to have a track that isn't hell bent on kicking you in the nuts. Psychedelic no question. On to Part 02! Bankai(2K11 Live Edit)- Heeeeeere come the Spaniards. I got to thinking who the most famous Spaniard I know and came up with Antonio Banderas. Is that sad? While that may be incorrect and narrow minded, did you see what he did to Angelina Jolie in Original Sin? He did things to that chick that you wouldn't do to a farm animal. And that was basically the entire film. Hey wasn't Christopher Columbus from Spain? Hmmm...forgot about him. Anyway, they drop a groovy little number that is quite rich in atmosphere. The lasers take their rightful place at the forefront and it's all out until the break at 6 minutes. The break allows you to catch your breath before a pretty good buildup and then it's right back in your mush. Not very imaginative but a powerful stomper. And as Angelina will tell you sometimes you just need to get manhandled. From Ashes- Excuse me waiter, there is some darkpsy in my twilight. Scraping leads and deep rumbling bass line that together sounds like a car accident on repeat. It's full throttle and unrelenting. Little too angry for me. I would check this guy's house for automatic weapons. Just to be safe. Psychoslut- "You gotta be f*ckin' kidding!" Nope, his name is A-Mush. Seriously. There is no mystery to this track whatsoever as it pounds the grey matter like it stole something. Juicy acid is on the menu and get ready for a heaping pile of it. Whew! Did someone get the number of that truck? All I see is a trail of roadkill. Pretty enjoyable for 2 EP's. Most tracks were just my style with acid, atmosphere and a groovy sensibility. I could've done without the Terraformers and Poizon track this go around, but I have heard good tracks from them both so I won't hold it against them. Recommended. Juno Part 01 Juno Part 02 Mdk

Artist: Javi Title: The Aural Exciter EP Label: Neogoa Date: July, 2011 1. Something Is Crawling 2. The Forest Masters 3. Wie Een Put Graaft Voor Een Ander Heeft Flink Gewerkt There are a lot of things to be disappointed with in this world. When you don't get what you want for Christmas, that's disappointing. You try and teach your child good manners and they insist on embarrassing you when they are invited to someone's house. "F*ck you Aunt Cathy and your socks for my birthday!" If someone you thought was a friend takes something of yours without asking, well...I would be disappointed too. So wrong. But so funny. Alas all that pales in comparison to the disappointment I felt when I found out that Neogoa was shutting its doors. Virtually I mean...a website doesn't have doors silly. A label that Ivan worked tirelessly upon to provide the listener with free goa trance as well as information for the uninformed in one tidy place. It's tough to work and lose money, but to not get paid in the first place and then for people to crap on his efforts...seems kind of juvenile. Bah, there is a whole thread for that, this is a review thread. Apparently there are still 4 free things in the works so at least we can look forward to that. Javi is the first one and peoples let me tell you...we are headed in the right direction. Something Is Crawling- When I see the word crawl I cannot but help think of the mind-altering track Congratulations (Crawl Into My Mouth) by Kiriyama. That was an insane effects-laden trip for sure. Lots of crazy effects shatter sharply above a very fluid and clear bass line and kick. If you were waiting with baited breath to hear some more funshiney goa...whoops. This has 2 feet in the dark, strange type that has been underrepresented. Hell I wouldn't even call it goa, but very psychedelic trance with a goa whisper. Still high powered and rhythmic with a classic 50's sci fi bent. Nice! The Forest Masters- The track name tells you where you are going. I love it when goa and forest are combined as you can tell from my appreciation of Kiriyama. Right off the bat the goa vibes ripple with a very scratchy lead which is then joined by another lead. So much deliciousness going on with a distinct forest feel even though the sample is of an astronaut. This track is so lush and immense with sound and fury that I didn't think possible. It's the Temple of One of goa trance. Awe...wait for it....some. Wie Een Put Graaft Voor Een Ander Heeft Flink Gewerkt- Last track of the EP and it is Dutch for...I don't remember seeing that rash on my cucumber. At least that's what Google translator told me. God knows that thing is never wrong. Regarding the track...it's f*cking great with eerie sounds and general weirdness while goa melodies thrash on top. The end reminds me of some old school sweetness and drives the point home. With a sledgehammer. Wielded by a monkey. Superb. You know what they say...you don't know what you've got until it's gone. Even though I am disappointed to see Neogoa go, I have high hopes that it will rise from the ashes better than ever. This was a great little EP that should please those that don't want to hear any more good time, fun in the sun goa. Nice Job Javi! Coming Soon Mdk

You know what else does that? Sleep. And that's free! I liked your review. I knew to stay away from this one. Glad my hunch was correct. Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Disco Meat Market Label: Organik Media Date: April, 2011 1 Ode To Orff / Deliriant 2 Log Off / Random L 3 Zerotox 2.0 / Terrorbyte vs. Cybernetix 4 Red Button / Orca 5 Switch Craft / Rubix Qube 6 Black (Cybernetix Rmx) / Biorhythm 7 Point Of no Return / Mantis 8 Breathing Liquid / Slug 9 Tonic Clonic / Ctrl+Alt+Del More twilight music? Don't mind if I do! Fresh of the review of Arecibo Chronicles Vol. 1 I was surprised to see another twilight compilation with almost the identical artists. Well you know if one pizza is good, 2 pizzas are twice so. Organik Media is a South African psy label that is quickly following in the footsteps of Timecode and Nexus Media. Twilight intensity with melody and atmosphere is the name of the game. I've heard 2 of their compilations before, that being Classical Distortions and Digital Decadance. Both were pretty good (reviews imminent) with the latter being spectacular. Compiled by the Cybernetix duo they aim...no wait. What the f*ck is up with that cover? How in the hell does that signify Disco Meat Market? Word on the street is this was the original cover, but they didn't think it would sell. Ode To Orff- "Thank you for trying this demo." South African Shane Renew's debut album Chemistry was an awesome release back in 2009. Total twilight madness. He picks up right where he left off with a funky groove and laser precise synths. What's cool is he combines this with an operatic song Carmina Burana from German composer Carl Orff. I remember it from the first Conan movie, but that was back in 82 before you guys were even born. So I might as well have said from the first moon landing. Now this could've been a disaster, but he makes it work. Why? Because he uses it and doesn't let it dominate the track. His crazy synths and lasers do the heavy lifting with the opera in the background for atmosphere. Well played sir. Log Off- "Chemical reactions involve change on two levels. Matter and energy. When a reaction is gradual the change in energy is slight. But if a reaction happens quickly...the faster they undergo change, the more violent the explosion." Case in point. Sit my son down and let him drink his chocolate milk and everything is rosy. Give it to him and let him run around and you're spending the next hour cleaning up the inevitable result. Craig Hudson who seems perfectly content to appear on compilations rather than release a full album Logs Off with a pretty straight forward track. Nothing groundbreaking, but solid nonetheless. Zerotox V2.0- This collaboration destroyed it on Arecibo Chronicles Vol. 1 with their Nano Tech remix and they blow the doors off again here. Fast bass line and acid assaults bring the power as leads swirl from the darkness. It growls and screams at the same time with maximum intensity. Keep an eye on these guys cause they are kicking ass and taking names. Red Button- Alon Lifer isn't afraid to crack a few heads to get his danceable point across. Liked Fist of Fury very much thank you sir. The laser leads scrape with Frozen Ghost frenzy and for the most part it's pretty great, but I can see where that lead can get annoying, especially with the build up. But it ain't so bad that you have to throw the baby out with the bathwater. Keep the kid. If you don't want it Angelina or Madonna will adopt it. Go ahead...you know you want to. Switch Craft- South African Kieron Grieve has delivered some of the best quality twilight psytrance in recent memory, but somehow I feel he gets overlooked. He really paints a post apocalyptic picture with this one. Very industrial sounding but what's up with the profanity laced sample? Not that I have a problem with a little vulgarity, but cursing for cursing's sake seems weak. F*ck me? F*ck you! Dick Snot Pussy...thank you very much. Too old for you guys? Great song though with its laser barrage and heavy beat. You could do a lot worse, partner. Black(Cybernetix Remix)- I guess nobody likes Biorhythm's tracks because artists seem to be remixing a lot of them. These two guys on the remix have a skill that is easily heard. They get it. Grungy, dark, and pumping. Sounds like my first time! Hi-Yo! Please tip your waitress, I'll be here all week. Seriously, I will. The scratchy lead just oozes dirt, love it. They got the lasers too, along with the eerie carnival feeling. Freaks. Half expect to see Violent J with a carving knife. The climax is a juicy lesson in anticipation as it funks with your mind. Groovy sh*t, ladies. Point of No Return- "This is it. We've gone past the point of no return." You said that already. I get it. This is Chris Hoy right? Aka sHiFt, aka Mr. Kicknutz. You spooky sonofabitch bringing that little twinkling sound to put me ill at ease. See now he does guitars right. You know, where it actually sounds like a guitar. Has that crunch to it. Dark and brooding with a penchant for rocking out. I bet he would be good to see live. This track is pretty loud and in your face typical in his style. I don't care for the repetitive sample, but I like how the final bit combines everything in a wave of sound. Breathing Liquid- Liam Gibbs (one half of Pitch Hikers) is another South African that continues to hold it down. The best part of this track for me was the break, as a new melody was introduced. Sounded like a zither. Who uses a zither? Anyway, his weaving of the synths with a plucked string is also impressive, but I think this one isn't that great. Not bad, but I have heard more powerful and intense stuff from him. Tonic Clonic- I don't know who this artist is, but some tracks I've heard weren't very strong. Why you would want to name a track after a seizure is beyond me though. This however isn't that bad. It's fairly detailed and I had a good time listening to all the nuances of the track in the beginning. Sure it's much tamer than the previous tracks, but it is the final one on the disc. But the more I listened to it, the weaker it became. While not as good as Arecibo Chronicles, it places a close second. If you're like me and are always up for some good twilight music, this is a good choice. Psyshop Beatspace SaikoSounds GoaStore Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Arecibo Chronicles Vol. 1 Label: Fractal Records Date: May, 2011 1. Total Integration - Lost & Found 2. Funk Me - Digital Talk 3. Konan the barbarian - Rubix Qube Vs. Xatrik 4. Keep the change - Orca Vs. Technodrome 5. Master of the krusher - Rabdom L Vs. Khopat 6. Intensified Frequency (Smashed, Ex-Gen rmx) - Ex-Gen 7. The real deal - Sidhartha 8. Nano Tech (Cybernetix, Terrorbyte rmx) - Biorhythm 9. Brain Purge - Artifakt 10. Star Child - Earworm Holy crap look at that tracklist! When I first saw this I couldn't get my wallet out fast enough. Then I calmed down, took a deep breath and remembered this was how Turn On, Tune In, Burn Out started out and we all know what a sh*tshow that turned out to be. No? Check it out. All the artists here have been known to drop a smasher so confidence is high. Confidence is high. Fractal Records is most recently coming off Fractal Energy 4, a quality twilight release that is as good as any that preceded it in the series. But this is also the label that released the steaming pile known as the Brainwash album Maximum Overload. So like Forrest says, you never know what you're going to get. One thing though...what the f*ck is up with that album cover? You got alien spaceships, satellite dishes, a tiger...floating cities? Total Integration- Dude...how long are we gonna have to wait for your album? Doesn't matter because he is that good. He makes music with an attitude and no exception here. The groove has a chip on its shoulder and dares you to try an knock it off. Like all his stuff it's dark but melodic with the throttle wide open. There are plenty of twists to keep it fresh and the end has a screaming lead that scours your ears clean. Awesome! Funk Me- "Do you like it hard? Or do you like it fast?" Well, that depends what's on TV. Can't it be both? If there is something good on the tube it will definitely have to be both. Me likey the Digital Talk. Frenchmen Julien Fougea and Luc Achintre released their latest Audio Extremists last year. Review here. You're welcome. Like their album it ain't the most melodic endeavor you'll hear, but they are still funk masters. Read the title, it's all right there. Still funky though it may be, it is a step down from the opener. Plenty of flow killers in it and I found the lead a little grating. Not your fault guys, it's like bagging a playmate and then having a go at her grandmother. Tough to win that. Konan The Barbarian- This was also on the Rubix Qube EP Saturate which I reviewed. You lazy motherf*ckers...here. Since I reviewed it there already I won't say much about it. Super track, but the Terminator is having a rough time of it lately ain't he? People were shocked that he was a womanizer, but I don't know why. Multiple Mr. Olympia titles back in the era when free sex was like an introduction. Besides have you seen Maria Shriver lately? Still, if you're banging the maid you ain't workin' that hard and are just hitting it due to proximity. Arnold, that's just lazy. Keep The Change- "Keep the change ya filthy animal!" Orca's debut Fist of Fury was very good and I still spin the Ninja turtle album pretty frequently. This is a clean up hitter that knocks it out of the park. Powerful, aggressive, and it just oozes acid from every pore like a teenager with a raging pimple problem. Groovy as hell and what is known in the business as a true stomper ladies and gentlemen. Ladies, like any of them are reading this. I don't even mind the buildup. Master of the Krusher- The intro to this is eerie and reminds me of a game I used to play on my PS2 called Nightmare Creatures. I'm still using my PS2. Played Midnight Club Dub Edition today. What? I know it's old, but so am I. Besides money is a bit tight and I am raising a kid you know. The track is pretty massive and in your face. Like I will be if you keep snickering at my PS2. Lasers fly and cybercrime sounds resonate while the groove pulsates. Great stuff that keeps the intensity high with numerous leads. Intensified Frequency (Ex-Gen Vs. Smashed RMX)- Ex-Gen is pretty reliable in delivering a good track and here the threesome teams up with consistent collaborator Smashed for an acid laden water balloon fight. I haven't heard the original, but when the artist responsible for the original remixes it, tells me he wasn't happy with it. Well, this is some good sh*t right here nephew. Full steam ahead right into the break which is expansive and well done. Then pop! right back into the acid. Loverly! The Real Deal- A jerry curl and a mullet with a lavender blazer and rhinestones. Wow, that is the tri fecta of embarrassment isn't it? Obviously that isn't Nuno. Everyone knows his blazer is green. All kidding aside (I think) he is like the Godfather of twilight music in a way. If I didn't know any better I would've thought this was part 2 of the last track. Heavy beat, acid lead sticky like a summer cold's sneeze and it is also relentless. It's an all out nutcracker that just assaults with wave after wave of acid. He uses that Vanilla Sky sample from Kurt Russell which is pretty cool. You go Nuno. You go. Nano Tech (Cybernetix Vs. Terrorbyte RMX)- "A galactic event that takes place only once every twenty five thousand eight hundred years." Terrorbyte. Terabyte. Get it? This one takes a hard left into darkness with a deep growly bass line and whiplike acid leads. But it's that bass that gets me. It's like getting a funk enema. Groovy as the sounds pile on. It's visceral, like something still alive crawling on the floor even though you thought you smashed it with your boot. F*cking sick. Brain Purge- And if this compilation wasn't brain crushing enough, the master of dark tech-trance delivers a knock out blow. He is the Trent Reznor of psytrance with his industrial leanings and cyber technology sound. Usually his stuff doesn't wow me, but this kicked ass. A dominating lead with post apocalyptic effects and a groove to match. Did he wake up and hear all these people making twilight music and say "Not in my house bitch." This is an awesome storytelling journey with groove abrasive and melodic sounds. Bravo sir. Bravo. Star Child- "We begin with the big question...." Don't I know it. What's for dinner? I had Beef Lo Mein tonight and my son had Lightning Mcqueen noo noos with a pickle, and mandarin oranges. Finished it off with a chocolate milk and some muffin. From a picky eater no less. Sure he stayed up to 10 pm to do it, but I don't give a f*ck. If he eats like that he can stay up as late as he wants. We end the compilation with Mr. I don't make a bad track but in all honesty it's a bit of a letdown. It doesn't have the same power as the previous, what... 9 did? Still he has his acid maker working and minor key strings are in effect. Not bad, but he's got some tough acts to follow. Man I wasn't even gonna write this one today, but I started listening to it again and the power of acid compelled me. This was smash after smash in full twilight brilliance. The weakest track for me was the Digital Talk one and even that was all right. If you love this type of music, do not hesitate to cop this. Congratulations Fractal Records, you are on what is known as a winning streak. Psyshop Beatspace SaikoSounds Mdk