Trance2MoveU
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Woah. That is some twisted, melodic insanity. Love it. UAF is kicking some major tail.
Mdk
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I found this to be boring with no real evolution. It could almost be described as "Ultimae Light." Because sometimes, Aes Dana is just too hard.
Mdk
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First off thanks for the free music. I enjoy a lot of the compositions, but I have one question. Does anyone else feel this is too loud on the first few tracks? I don't know if it was recorded this way or it is a mastering issue (I don't even know the science behind that, so if I'm off base, please let me know.) As I listen to the tracks they sound distorted or "scratchy."
It sounds this way even if I turn it down.Mdk
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Artha album - check
Astrancer album - /
Artifact303 album - /
Antares album - /?
Mdk
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Goa trance becoming melodic trance
I voted awesome, but if you're in the mood for a darker goa experience, I just reviewed an EP from Direct Brain Access in the 2009 reviews. It's a free release and a 22 minute track. You will not be sorry.
Mdk
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Artist: Direct Brain Access
Title: Solar Eclipse
Label: Qulture Production
Date: December 2009
1. Solar Eclipse
You know I come across so much music that it is hard to keep track of. Some things I get and listen to for weeks at a time and others I listen to a couple of times and then never take it out again. There are CDs all over the place and one day I will convert my music to digital media as the room is rapidly vanishing. I don't know how I came across this artist, but I do know that I don't have a disc so I must've downloaded it. Looking at the file now, I'm sure I did. After a quick Google, I realize this was a free release and is widely available. Qulture Production is a Russian label born in 2007 that caters to all music electronic.
I have no idea who this is, but this is where I got it from. Let me tell you that it is only a one track release. And that is more than enough. This is hyperactive, powerful and melodic goa trance in the high bpm's. 303's scream and tempo changes shift back and forth allowing this 22 minute (yep, that's not a typo!) epic tale to unfold. It wastes no time out of the gate and I'm thinking there is no way that this amount of intensity can be maintained. I stand corrected. What. A. Ride. The cover art is a thing of beauty as well, totally trippy.
I highly recommend this track to add to your goa trance collection. If you want a break from the awesome light that Suntrip has provided (fanboy) and are in the mood for a darker sledgehammer to the face, then get to your computer and download this.
Mdk -
I have to respectfully disagree with the above reviewer's opinion. This was very deep! Rich layers and melancholy pads...felt like I was listening to some Ultimae. It's mostly what I would call Ambient Trance. Very beautiful.
This one snuck under the radar and deserves some more attention.
Mdk
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This sucks.
And by sucks I mean is freakin' awesome!
Mdk
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I smell an Amithaba Buddha 10 track free release update.. Powerful storming goa trance blasters inspired by this incredible find.
Pretty sweet!
Mdk
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I think they are relevant. No question they can evoke some powerful emotions with their melodies and beats. I've read where a lot of people have said this music changed their lives in some fashion. That said, I like how you described the missing band member. That is exactly how I feel.
I would put a lot of the downtempo albums in the psy genre over any album by BOC. As I explained not only does their melody work lack evolution but those ridiculous interludes serve what purpose? Just to switch gears?
They aren't bad, and I have heard worse music of course, but the Discogs ratings are ridiculously inflated. Like this music was the soundtrack to peoples lives. Maybe it was and they remember a time that was really special.
Mdk
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I had a long day of hiking and I needed some slow tunes to relax. I'm listening to their music and this is what I wrote on Discogs...
"I can describe this outfit very simply. Minimal repetitive loops strung together by non-sensical interludes over trip-hop beats."
Sure, they have some cool melodies, but there is no evolution in any of their tracks. It's the same loop all the way through. They surely know their way around a drum machine, as I find a lot of their beats funky. And the interludes...they don't add anything to the listening experience.
Just my .02
Mdk
P.s. I don't even know if I should put this in this forum...or maybe into other electronica.
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I had a long day of hiking and I needed some slow tunes to relax. I'm listening to their music and this is what I wrote on Discogs...
"I can describe this outfit very simply. Minimal repetitive loops strung together by non-sensical interludes over trip-hop beats."
Sure, they have some cool melodies, but there is no evolution in any of their tracks. It's the same loop all the way through. They surely know their way around a drum machine, as I find a lot of their beats funky. And the interludes...they don't add anything to the listening experience.
Just my .02
Mdk
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This was pretty good! Long tracks but lots of changes. I find the ones with the hints of goa in them the best. Great work!
Mdk
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Sigh...Take two doses of V/A - Ministry of Chaos, V/A - Macao, and Timecode's Retrospective albums and you should be fine. Also, Deliriant and Hypnoxock album were super.
Mdk
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Artist: Amithaba Buddha
Title: Psyramid EP
Label: Phototropic Records
Date: March, 2008
1. Psyramid
2. Mental Maze
So if it seems like I am reviewing a lot of goa trance these days you're right. I have a lot of stuff here and am trying to provide some info for people who might not know about certain projects. Also, when I find something I like, I compliment the artist by 1.) buying their music and 2.) writing a review. Now I don't recall if I bought this release (was it ever for sale?) or I downloaded it, but I thought I would share my views on it. This also allows me to describe how the music makes me feel. I've gone through a lot of Filipe Santos work and this is one of my favorite projects. The "Goa Gate" album was a high energy journey through goa that I adored. This is the EP that came out beforehand on the label he helped create. The cover is beautiful; an ancient pyramid radiating power from its tip amidst a body of water.
"Psyramid"- Bouncing bassline that is aggressive as ever. In no time a smooth melody descends from the heavens and then gives way to another, carrying me along on breezes of Jasmine and lilac. The break (short as always) allows enough time to take a quick look around before being thrust back into the dreamy superhighway. The colors are rich and sticky, clinging to me with transparent intent. Carried higher into the glaring sunlight, twisting and turning until I no longer know up from down. Damn you Filipe you have me writing like a stoned out hippie. Super work!
"Mental Maze"- Screw you and you need for an intro! Right into the mix with melody layered ontop of melody. All the while keeping the beat churning methodically underneath. The break is pretty limited as he really likes his kick. The leads during the short intermission are less interesting to me on their own, but when presented as a whole, they really work. This type of music keeps me dancing like nobody is watching. Another triumph!
So there you have it. This guy knows how to make goa trance that speaks to me. It's intensely melodic, it's relentless and it takes me to that place where I can close my eyes an drift away. I don't know if this is still available, but if it is...get it. You'll be in for a trippy experience.
Mdk
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Artist: Lost Buddha
Title: Ataraxia EP
Label: Metaphysic Records
Date: October, 2006
1. Ataraxia
2. Southern Oracle
This guy is all over the place. Either he needs some schizophrenic meds fast or he just has a lot to offer. Filipe Santos aka Lost Buddha, aka Amithaba Buddha, aka Pandemonium! aka Rama, aka Bit-Head...whew! When I first discovered his music on beatbiz, I was surprised at its power and intensity. He takes rich melodic goa trance and infuses it with adrenaline that moves you. This is his first release I believe. As you can see by his aliases he goes on but the same cannot be said for poor Metaphysic Records that folded soon after the release of the Mindphere album.
"Ataraxia"- "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.
"Southern Oracle"- This track was also featured on the GOlden Vibes and the State of Spirit compilations. Once again or maybe I should stay still he wastes no time with long intros. The beat starts immediately followed closely by the melodies that arc skyward in ever widening spirals. Shortly, there are some intricate Nitzho melodies which really get the blood pumping. Just non-stop motion. Love it.
What I like about his music is the detail and the melodies of course. Super lush and very complicated arrangements. Or at least it seems complicated to me. Once his tracks get going, there is no stopping until the end. Even his breaks only provide a brief respite. He introduces his melodies and instead of stopping, they seem to flow into the next series which gives his tracks continuity. I believe this is some of the best new school goa made and am glad I have this EP. Highly recommended.
I wouldn't even know where to get this now, but he is a member on this forum, so email him and he will tell ya.
Mdk
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Artist: Pandemonium!
Title: A Mad Scientists Night EP
Label: Metaphysics Records
Date: May, 2007
1. A Mad Scientists Night
2. Ali Baba and the 40 Acid Puzzle
Wow, a lot has changed since this came out. First of all Pandemonium! if you didn't already know is one of the projects of Filipe Santos. Now he is heavily involved in his acid projects, but when this came out, it was a revelation. This was a free release, (you can still find it here at Ektoplazm.) The label was set up in part by Filipe, but soon folded.
"A Mad Scientists Night"- This sound is so full with a lot going on. Sunshine trance this ain't! Acid leads replace one another with swift determination as a 303 screams itself above all else. This track has it all. Evil distorted vibes, you betcha. Groove a plenty? Ditto. It is like a trip down the rabbit hole but instead of helping Alice, I'm kicking her in the face!
"Ali Baba and the 40 Acid Puzzle"- The Middle Eastern feel shoots to prominence right from the get go. Screaming leads fire off in a barrage of acidic warfare. The sounds are so lush that it just holds you tight and makes you feel like you are part of the track. The deatails are strong, creating an rich atmosphere but doesn't sacrifice any of it's innate danceability.One melody leaves, no problem a new one takes its place. Stellar!
His work here is outstanding and had me ready for more. I liked a lot of his album "Muinomednap!" and there was talk of a 2nd Pandemonium! album, but I guess that got shelved after the....unpleasantness. Nonetheless, we still have this gem and it should be enjoyed to the fullest. Between Lost Buddha, Pandemonium! and Amithaba Buddha there is plenty of good tunes to go around.
Mdk
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Title: The Sitting Goddess
Artist: Various
Label: Phototropic Records
Date: March, 2009
1. Dhamsuta - The Sitting Goddess (8:51)
2. Radical Distortion - Journey Into Your Mind (8:44)
3. Aerosis - Anazasi (9:50)
4. Amithaba Buddha - Obsidian Stones (8:35)
5. Pandemonium! - 4 Snobs In A Row (7:01)
6. Goalien - Spititual Rising (7:41)
7. Aurari - Instant Transmission (8:21)
8. Astreveta - Graviton (8:59)
9. Zirrex - Infinite Space (9:20)
Well, here I am with another Phototropic Records compilation in my hand. That makes 3 for 2009 ("Artificial Sun", "Ya Wichna" and now this) not to even mention the re-releases of Synsun's earlier work. These guys have been busy! I was pleased with the two earlier compilations and am looking forward to this one. It seems like another great track list with a few newbies, but mostly established artists. Wow, even a Zirrex track! This label along with Suntrip, Cronomi, DAT Records, Ezel-Ebed and Ultiva are responsible for keeping the old school spirit alive with outstanding release in the melodic goa trance style.
"The Sitting Goddess"- Title track by a pair from Kosovo. Pads and skittering rushes bring the unknown to this track. An ominous goa melody cuts the air like a knife for over 3 and a half minutes. Nothing in your face, just lurking in the background. Waiting to strike. When it hits, you don't know until it is too late. This track is subtle, more slither than sledgehammer. Great opening track.
"Journey Into Your Mind"- These guys are on quite the roll. Their album Psychedelic Dreams was super and their compilation work continues to impress. The thudding kick springs a saddened melody as it snakes its way around my mind. Devious, I would call it. The final melody grows out of a short break and this track finishes strong. Great!
"Anasazi"- C'mon already, where the hell is this album we have all been waiting for? Aerosis is Bobby Ognyanov & Jeremy Green and they have released several tracks that were received very well. Gurgling sounds give way to rich, textured pads speaking for the ancient Pueblo Peoples. This is a spiritual sledgehammer. All aspects come together for a lush mind warping experience. Leads bounce, pads sing, and the bass grumbles. Superb.
"Obsidian Stones"- Filipe is at it again with one of my favorite goa trance projects. He does not disappoint. The Indian mysticism is thick with possibilities. Leads seamlessly meld into each other as the kick thunders underneath. Full power. The 303 screams in defiance and anchors more delicious leads weaving about with razor sharp precision. This is the definition of melodic goa. Outstanding!
"4 Snobs In A Row"- This is one of Filipe's other projects. Is that an accordion? Clever. More goa melodies zip about and the track has a phuncky feel to it. Whereas the last track was full steam ahead, this is more bob and weave type stuff. No less entrancing however. The accordion gives the track a European feel which is an odd combination with the goa mystique. Nonetheless, I loved it.
"Spiritual Rising"- Boris brings the bubbles and sputterings to go along with the synth kick. The pads speak of Armageddon, but the melodies say the spirits shall rise. There is his penchant for Nitzho in the melodies, but they are full and racy, not silly. It's like looking out over a destroyed city but seeing the possibilities of what may be again. Good track.
"Instant Transmission"- Here are newbies emli Robaj, Liridon Uka & Albert Hasani from Kosovo (two of which make up Dhamsuta.) Gentle melodies creep up the spine as other worldly sounds penetrate the ears. The kick is light, but the atmosphere is one of dread and danger. Nice and dark. Different sounds keep the track fresh. This is another one that won't bowl you over, but it does effectively keep things moving.
"Graviton"- After a pretty good track on "Artificial Sun" the Kosovo-ites are at it again. This one is a grower. Starts minimally, but the melodies come in with a whisper growing to a growl. A new melody asserts itself during the break and then others pile on. Not great but, pretty good.
"Infinite Space"- I don't understand why Zirrex is not put on a pedestal like Hallucinogen or the Pleaidians. His album "Lost In Time" for me is one of the greatest goa masterpieces ever. The track "Hollysterius" is 15 minutes of pure goa deliciousness. He must be some kinda good as that album was re-released this past year. This track is a downtempo goa number. Rushes and pads fill it out as a breakbeat drops underneath. Goa melodies flourish below as a lead combines with others above. It's a sunshine explosion! The track creeps along with a thick washy lead that would be acidic in psytrance. Awesome way to end a compilation!
So there you have it. This label should be very proud of what they have done in 2009. All of their compilation work was strong as well as re-releasing some hidden gems of yesteryear. They have a good bunch of artists who know how to make deep and emotional goa trance that I for one will never tire of. They already started 2010 off on the right foot with the very impressive "Goatronika." This disc is highly recommended and I am looking forward to their next offering. Great. Job.
Mdk
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God I hope not, the last 1200 Mics album was an insulting bitch slap to their fans! I don't care that an artist changes their style, that's up to them but to just make such a half hearted attempt at an album with the same track on it twice was just pathetic :rant:
Your review was...um..not kind.
Mdk
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Title: Elixir of Life
Artist: Various
Label: Ezel-Ebed Records
Date: January, 2010
1. Erk Duasy'
YAN ETKI
2. We've Been Contacted
PROJECT COSMONAUT
3. One Step
HYPNOTIC SIGNAL
4. Galactic Singers
BONEVA
5. God Of Light
GOALIEN FEAT. AGNETON
6. Resurecting The Dead
TRAVMA
7. Eclepsia
GAZZUAR
8. Red Planet
NEPHILIM VS RUDRAKSHA
9. Faran
ZED REACTOR
Ezel-Ebed Records is proud to be Turkey's first psychedelic label and well they should be. The label is run by Travma and they have quite the stable of artists. Some I have heard of, but most are unknown. They released the outstanding "Alternative Colours last year." So how do they follow up? Let's start with that beautiful cover. The colors are inviting, and the text speaks of old worlds. The bottle containing the elusive elixir is in the center.
"Erk Duasi"- Yan Ekti starts his track off with a melancholy pad before a quick bassline enters. The journey underneath the pyramid begins. The melodies dance on booted feet as soft pads guide them farther down the stairwell. More melodies with different sounds seek to relax the listener as the light begins to fade. This is a track that is not a smash but a subtle trip through the mind. I had to listen to it several times before I got it. I am glad that I did.
"We've Been Contacted"- Project Cosmonaut is Eli Yarkoni and this is is 3rd track released. A dark melody erupts right at the outset and is quickly joined by one of a higher tonality. Then another until it is just a thick soup of hallucination. The layers threaten to suffocate, but only caress. The kick is gentle allowing the leads to soar. Several mini-breaks help me refocus on what is happening all around me. Beautiful!
"One Step"- Russians Alexandr Makushev & Dmitriy Rusov had an absolute cracker of a track on "Goatronika" called "Cosmic Sphere." This one starts with a rampaging bassline and the all too familiar giant leap for mankind sample. The pace is quicker and the melodies are thick with the promise of what may be. Whatever was sleeping seems to have been awakened. Alien effects from the movie Pitch Black add to the cosmic appeal as new melodies join the fray. The break arrives with some percussion and a wailing lead. It's not long until I'm hurtling past stars at ludicrous speed as more melodies combine with a groovy key change. These guys have IT. It's tangible and I cannot wait for their album. Stupendous!
"Galactic Singers"- You know there is an osteoporosis drug in the US advertised as Boneva and it supposedly helps with bone loss. Probably not what this artist was going for. Melodies take hold around a nitzo kick as they envelop me, hot to the touch. A soft pad promises that everything will be alright, but dirty, sticky leads beg to differ. I catch my breath at the break and look to see where I am. The Nitzho element is evident as it combines with the goa feel to carry me away yet again. The distorted sample at the next break is unintelligible, but the artist is having fun with the kick. The final part of the track is a nice ride into whatever star they are taking me into. Great track.
"God of Light (Golden Path Remix)"- Everything about this track title screams sunshine. Agneton needs not introduction, but Goalien is Boris Huskic from Serbia and he has been rather busy releasing several tracks on compilations and appearing on Elias's album "Horizon In Your Head." Alien rushes hint of a species that has visited our planet before. The Nitzo kick is again present with an intense bassline. Arpeggios swirl above me with frenzied speed then collide into a slower tempo fury. Everything comes to a halt with a BOOM! as pads resurrect the ominous atmosphere. This track is more Nithonot than goa in my opinion, but it still works very well. These guys remove any cheesiness that might be associated with Nitzhonot. Great track.
"Resurrecting the Dead"- Label manager Travma gives us a track that starts with a bassline and a crash. A chopped up melody germinates slowly amidst a soft beat until we are in full blown Nitzho mode. Melodies combine in an explosion of light as they twirl ever higher through the clouds. The layers are added to each other to acheive a fuller, richer sound with magical results. Good job Travma....now about your album...
"Eclepsia"- Sounds like a disease. Yeah if the disease was kick ass! What I noticed about this track was the melodies. Odd to say, but they are so in your face on this one. The beat is your generic 4/4 but this guy pulls it off. There is a key change which gives the track a friendly feel. There isn't a lot of variation in this one, but again that is ok. It was an enjoyable listen.
"Red Planet"- I have no idea wo these cats are. The track starts with bubbling effects as the tension builds. The melodies start off strong, but then seem to get kind of lost. The track plods along with much of the same with only slight changes. It's not a bad track, but not great either.
"Faran"- Zed Reactor is George Antonopoulos and this might be the last goa or Nitzo type track we hear for the guy. According to Discogs, he now makes industrial music.
An evil horror movie type sample of a dying soul starts us out. This is on the darker side of our scene with a bassline that sits out front and doesn't change at all. Melodies are scarce, but the dark atmosphere is there. It's just that without melodies, there isn't anything to focus on or to carry the tune. And that sample...is that from the movie Aladdin? Are they taking the piss? Anyway, I suppose they wanted to end the compilation with a different type of goa. I wouldn't of done it, but I'm just some guy with a computer that listens to music.So there you have it. This compilation started off like gangbusters and hit its stride right in the middle. After the Travma track though, it started to go downhill. I get what the label is trying to do and that is introduce various types of music that fit into the Goa Trance and Nitzhonot genre. You can't be sunshine all the time, right. All in all, I would recommend this compilation as some of the tracks are brilliant. So for those of you keeping score, this label has had 2 releases and both of them were excellent. "Alternative Colours" was better, but hey, it's tough to follow that beast.
Mdk
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Title: Artificial Sun
Artist: Various
Label: Phototropic Records
Date: June, 2009
1. Antares - Prophecy (10:26)
2. Amithaba Buddha - Eye Can See You (Bright Remix) (6:28)
3. Zolphinia - Elixier (8:24)
4. LandScape ObServer - Dream Flow Controls (7:13)
5. ArmagedDance - Temple of Maya (8:41)
6. Goasia - Parasomnia (8:10)
7. Party Droids - Biogenesis Blaster (6:50)
8. Astreveta - Matter Magna (10:21)
9. Psydiver - Voyage to Ohmega (7:33)
This is my 3rd review of Phototropic Records who is one of the driving forces in the resurgence of goa trance. Based in Austria they have released several quality compilations (including this one) as well as artist albums such as "Goa Gate" by Amithaba Buddha and "Utopia" by Zolphinia. Whereas Suntrip has a stable of proven thoroughbreds prolific in this genre, Phototropic seems to come up with quite a few new acts. Starting with the cover, it is another colorful and beautiful image with sunshine hues in the shape of a flower. Really gets you in the mood to hear some intricate music.
Prophecy- Simon Felix has released a few tracks professionially, but has composed many more. Check out his page at Electrobel. There is some awesome stuff there. Which brings me to this track to open things and it is one of my favorite new school releases. This has a hint of mystery and Egyptian royalty as you stare across the desert. The bass scrambles forth as strings provide the backbone. The leads are cat quick and twisted just right. Melodies swarm the senses overlapping in a ballet of blissfull awareness. This is a perfect example of a track that grips the mind and takes you to far off places without a lot of changes. Out-fucking-standing.
Eye Can See You (Bright mix)- Sure Filipe is currently involved in his acid projects as well as the 8-Bit stuff, but he always manages to keep the old school flame burning. His "Goa Gate" album continues to see heavy rotation by me. But this is the project that appeals to me most. This could've been on his album. The bass is aggressive, but pales in comparison to the power of the leads. They are agile, adapting to the bass changes without a thought. The strings provide solar winds on which to soar as new melodies are introduced. True goa feel, through and through. Superb.
"Elixier"- Zolphinia is Tiago Braga who has also released a few things, his best track being "Land of Gods" on his album and Golden Vibes III. Bubbling synths clamor over a kick as tribal percussion sets itself in. The melodies ease in and they are stealthy, as they don't hit you over the head. I imagine another desert scene where the king looks out upon his subjects surveying all that he has come to acquire. Not a bad track, but nowhere near the equal of the previous two.
"Dream Flow Controls" Landscape Observer is Kirill Yumatov from Moscow and I first heard of him on the Resonant Earth site. More eerie beginnings as the synth rolls into a glass like lead. The undercurrent is that something wicked this way comes. The break brings a simple melody as the previous lead returns, but I am not a fan of that sound. And then it comes back again. Choose another preset! There isn't too much going on. Good, but not great.
"Temple of Maya"- Artur is at it again as synths and creatures unknown scurry from the forest with some percussion sounds. This definitely has a darker element. Melodies morph into each other with wispy strings. The break at four minutes allows me to see where the path has taken me. Fluttering butterflies on gossamer wings draw me deeper into the forest. An abrasive lead takes control, but it isn't long before it disappears from whence it came. The final bubbling lead is delicious! While not as powerful, it does the job creating a delicious atmosphere.
"Parasomnia"- Goasia are Balint Tihamer & Vladislav Radulovic and we are all eagerly awaiting their new album. A speedy bassline and soft pads give way to rolling melodies. Smooth transitions here, as new leads are added putting my mind in the clouds. I'm flying on eagle's wings getting closer and closer to the brilliant orb in the sky. Totally different that the last track in that this is all light. Fantastic track.
"Biogenesis Blaster" Party Droids is Filipe and Agneton and this is their only track. But wow! You can hear Filipe's influence straight away. Massive in scope with the signature melodies from Agneton. It sounds similar to the Amithaba Buddha track on this same compilation, but whay do you expect. Wide open pads with a flanger like quality, as the lead jumps about as if on hot coals. I love the Nitzhonot touch, very goa without becoming a cheesefest. This just drips with the Middle East vibe, and makes me nod my head with approval. So detailed with melodies all over the place. Awesome!
"Matter Magna"- Astreveta are Veton Avdiu, Liridon Uka & Albert Hasani from Kosovo. Good to see something from that area. This track grows slowly as a garbled radio message tries to warn us. Two and a half minutes in the melodies arrive as a 303 growls underneath. The break at 4'20" (coincidence?) brings back the radio message along with a forlorn lead. As the beat slows down, the synths become fatter and more commanding. I felt that this track went on to long and could've incorporated more melodies. That said, still a pretty good track.
"Voyage To Ohmega"- Slower in tempo with a wicked swagger. The melodies are out front and are a force to be reckoned with. They evolve and maintain that sense of other worldliness. Climbing higher and higher, they twist into the stratosphere. New sounds join the old creating quite the mixture. If this went on for 30 minutes I wouldn't complain. I will be keeping an eye on this Russian. Awesome!
And again Phototropic Records comes through with a smash! This is as good as "Goatronika." Like the promo said, this will go from light to dark sounding goa trance. The melodies are warm and supernatural. There isn't one bad track on this disc. I highly recommend this piece of aural art, you will not be disappointed.
Mdk
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Album: Ya Wichna
Artist: Various
Label: Phototropic Records
Date: May, 2009
01. Imba - Tales from Outer Space (Intro) (1:10)
02. CoaGoa - Eternal Sunrise (7:02)
03. Arronax - Forest of Twilight (8:23)
04. SETI project - Stoned Henge (8:25)
05. Primal Source - Cosmic Anaconda (7:26)
06. E-Mantra - Trans Neptunian objects (7:56)
07. Jikooha - Underground Spirit (7:01)
08. Agneton - Fermi Paradox (6:51)
09. Goalogy - UFO over Moscow (5:42)
10. ArmagedDance - Another Reality (10:00)
Here I am again reviewing another Phototropic Records new school goa compilation. Goatroinka was awesome and I have been meaning to get to this for some time. It isn't available at the usual suspects (Psyshop, Sailo, Beatspace...)as this is a CD-r. Don't let that deter you though. It was mastered by Digitoxin (quite well I must say) and compiled by our friend Imba. The cover art is by CoaGoa (who did a beautiful job and has a track here). That's called getting full use of your talent. Phototropic continues to keep the scene alive with their quality offerings and I am happy about that. The promo is that the listener will be treated to shades of light and dark on which I can agree.
The first track is an intro which I usually skip (sorry Imba).
Eternal Sunshine- CoaGoa is Aleksandar Popovic and apparently this is one of his first works. Not a bad job starting out! The track begins with a gurgling bass as soft strings whisper in the background. The lead sound didn't do much for me until one sneaks in around 3 minutes. There isn't much evolution to this track as it felt slightly empty. He released an Ep later on which had a more polished sound, so he seems to be moving in the right direction.
Forest of Twilight- Whiporwhills herald a bassline as synths echo in the background making me feel as though I am deep in the forest. There is a spacious tack to this one as the spirtual sounds multiply. He makes good use of ancillary noises to create atmosphere. The flow is smooth as sounds dive in and out and melodies change. Not as full as some, but not empty either. A little more dark in feel as it becomes more eerie with multiple listens. Great track.
Stoned Henge- Cute. Paul Yelland released "Tribal Trance" on the UAF label which was decent. This track is more subdued and laid back. The melodies are not as in your face as some, nor as pristine. The child's voice seems kind of silly and this track didn't move me. I would say this one was the weakest on the compilation.
Cosmic Anaconda- This is Dan Vlad Petrea from Romania. I love the eerie ambient beginning; it brings an air of mysticism. Gets going after 2 and a half minutes. Drum roll at 6 minutes or so was a little forced. Still an awesome goa track.
Trans Neptunian Objects - What can be said about E-mantra? His album on Suntrip was an absolute smash and really raised the bar in my opinion. He starts with a dark ambient opening with a wailing soul. You can hear it bubbling, churning, trying to break free. The sound is very similar to his album. One melody enters just as another leaves so there is some overlap seamlessly weaving a rich tapestry. AWESOME!!!
Underground Spirit- I think I was in the minority when it came to Jikooha's album "Revolution Spaceship" as I really liked it. His track "Bay Hall Magic" is just pure bliss. A Goa riff at the start which fattens up when a sticky lead joins in. The twinkles make the melodies seem heavenly. The whole track is arresting, as melodies shift but the backbone stays the same. WONDERFULL!!!
Fermi Paradox - No idea what that means and I am too lazy to google. That is super lazy. But what we have here is the master of Nitzhonot! Gurgles and whiporwills give this track a forest feel. The Nitzhonot melodies arrive shortly thereafter and do not stop. Spacey effects combined with clever breaks keep the momentum flowing. Great tune!
UFO Over Moscow- This is the shortest track on compilation. In the beginning you have tribal voices in the background as tune rises. After a short break the melodies appear and dance nimbly over a simple bassline. As they combine I find myself smiling. There is a key change near the end, but I don't feel it was necessary. I wonder why he named the track so. Good track nonetheless.
Another Reality- This is Artur Mataryan from Russia who has had several net releases. Another track that doesn't waste any time. The base is loud and swirling effects are all around. One minute in the goa melodies fly all fighting for dominance. The break is short, not allowing the listener to catch your breath, before the thumping kick returns. A track that is 10 minutes long cannot be short on ideas and this one isn't. Halfway through a new set of melodies weaves its way into the subconscious. There is so much going on it doesn't allow for boredom, but isn't overpowering either. Nice job!
So what can be said? Phototropic has done it again. While not as polished or professional as "Goatronika" it was a great compilation. The standout track for me was the E-mantra effort, but let's be honest, that guy is just really good. I can easily recommend this disc as the goa trance revival continues full steam ahead.
Mdk
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Album: Goatronika
Artist: Various
Label: Phototropic Records
Date: January, 2010
1. Analogue
RADICAL DISTORTION
2. Goa Trance Mission (Jikooha rmx)
SPACE ELVES
3. Inner Poison
ALIENAPIA
4. Next steps to the stars
SKY TECHNOLOGY
5. Uncharted Planet
AMITHABA BUDDHA
6. Cosmic Sphere
HYPNOTIC SIGNAL
7. Cassiopeia
BLACKSTARRFINALE
8. Four Points
VOX
9. Synesthesia
NK47
10. The journey continues
ARRONAX
I know I did an abbreviated review earlier, but I thought it was time to go through this track by track and kick the tires again!
Phototropic Records is another label that is continuing to release new school goa trance or SWOG (Second Wave of Goa
.) Based in Austria, they are responsible for goa compilations such as "Ya Wichna, Artificial Sun and The Sitting Goddess, just to name a few. Their style is high energy and loaded with beautiful melodies. This effort was compiled by Imba and Digitoxin with cover art by Radical Distortion. Geez, is there anything that those guys can't do? The cover is beautiful; showing an alien against a multicolored background. I know this has been an area of contention, but I think it is a nice composite of the two worlds; one ancient and mystic, the other futuristic.Analogue- The Greeks open the compilation with a track that slowly evolves with a pretty dirty bass lead focused more on groove. Not long after more traditional leads appear and it is more of a mellow offering. Some of the leads are floating some are twisted. Not blasting right away, but gently easing you into the experience. Good track.
Goa Trance Mission (Jikooha Remix)- Jikooha had a pretty good album in 2008 with Revolution Spaceship and here they give the Space Elves the remix treatment. It's fairly driving and very old school sounding. What you don't hear is the stacking I've mentioned before of countless melodies but again a more toned down approach that is just entrancing. Like they used to do it in the old days, give you one central melody and build around it. Pretty smooth.
Inner Poison- This is a track off of Alienapia's brilliant debut (review coming) Goapocalipsis. Much more aggressive than the previous two tracks, with swarming melodies and grungy leads. The break is a nice display of a new lead flowering without losing momentum and still keeping the atmospheric feeling. The last third of the track really picks up some power finishing strongly. Great track!
Next Steps To The Stars- Sky Technology's EP Time and Space (free at Ektoplazm) from UAF was a strong statement that brought out the chaos and beauty in goa trance. He wastes no time after a short intro melody by jumping right into the battle with crazy filtered leads and an even crazier melody line. It's totally different than what I'm used to with beautiful melody combinations with great pace. Sure it has the goa melodies we are all familiar with, but it is what he surrounds them with that makes this track stand apart. The feeling of a higher consciousness and spirituality is definitely present. Super!
Uncharted Planet- Filipe can do very little wrong in my eyes, as he has made track after track of pure goa bliss. He starts right away with arcing pads, and a fairly plain beginning lead. It doesn't stay that way however, as it gets twisted and filtered to within an inch of its life. Middle Eastern melodies cascade above 303 stabs right into an outer space break. Quite the pace young Skywalker. No more 8-bit stuff, the Buddha rules!
Cosmic Sphere- "First there was darkness. Then came the Strangers. They were a race as old as time itself. They had mastered the ultimate technology. The ability to alter physical reality by will alone. They call this ability...tuning."
I love a Dark City sample and ones I can understand more. Beginning with some tribal percussion this track growls, speaking in low hushed tones before spiraling skyward into melody. There really isn't a lot of evolution, but what is given works very well. This track makes the alien on the cover seem more relevant and keeps the theme focused. Good track.
Cassiopeia- This is his 3rd track (actually 2nd since this came before the Dimensional Gateway comp) and he has been pretty solid. This one has a shimmery start almost noisy with some 303's underneath. At the 3 minute mark it changes and becomes more melodic with the 303 becoming more prominent. It takes over, actually. Fast and furious is how I would describe this track, and I liked it.
Four Points- This is Tomislav Crncic from Croatia and his album Innerpolarity was quite good back in 2007. He also released a stormer on the V/A Protozoa this year. Analog leads, thick and fat storm to the break, and then out of it, becoming a little monotonous. It takes almost 5 minutes for the goa to come out and then the lead melody dances around like a butterfly. I would say that this track was weak in the beginning, took too long to get strong and then didn't quite make it worthwhile. Good, but not great.
Synesthesia- His Outer Space Shaman EP showcased his talent with three strong tracks. The outer space feel is here with nice melodies that shoot past stars, with a great amounts of reverb. Nice alien effects pelt the small spacecraft, into the break with a filtered synth crying the whole way. An interesting song, pretty good.
The Journey Continues- The bass in this one is a filthy affair as a lead tries to be heard. Groovy, sure, but it doesn't stop there. High pitched tones that speak of other beings pop out. This is not a track that bombards you with wave after wave of melody until you submit. It shows you several of its sides, one at a time, leaving before it becomes repetitive. A different take on how goa can sound is always refreshing, and this one is pretty psychedelic.
I think when a new goa album or compilation comes out one of two things happens...we tend to be overwhelmed by its newness and the accolades start pouring in or we dismiss it entirely. I know when this was first released I hopped right on the bandwagon and enjoyed the hell out of it. I still do. This is a good example of the sum being greater than all the parts individually. Most of the tracks are good on their own, but when listened to all the way through, they seem more cohesive. Although I didn't care for the Vox effort it wasn't terrible. One could say this is a mixture of different styles of outer space goa trance. There are more powerful goa albums, but this is still a worthwhile addition to one's collection to hear the style of different artists. And don't forget, it is still melodic as hell. Highly recommended.
Mdk
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Album: Iwasankai
Artist: Various
Label: Yabai Records
Date: March, 2010
1. Free Man
BRAIN HUNTERS
2. Black Out
KHOPAT AND SINFUL REACTION
3. Kind of rush
ORCA
4. The Universe
B-55
5. Reborn
TIME TWISTERS
6. Don't get me mad (rmx)
PHATMATIX
7. Brain Damage
DAPANJI
8. Rising Waves
TOXIC
9. Yottabyte
ATEAM
Yabai records is another one of my favorite labels that delivers the goods. Power, melody, and insanity. Their artists are heavy on rhythm and skilled in creating atmosphere. Compilations like "Macao" and "Ministry of Chaos" were very good. Here there is a mixture of the well known artists as well as the not so well known. "Iwasankai" according to Psyshop is Japanese slang for blowing your mind. On the outside the cover looks like some grafitti on the side of a train. Nice colors and the business fits the style of music. There is a lot going on.
Brain Hunters- Free Man Spaniard Alfonso Zambrano starts things off with a powerful track with a sample I am unfamiliar with. This track also has one of those ridiculous buildups which I hate, but thankfully it is short lived and he gets back to the acidic goodness. Plenty of groove that is guaranteed to move. Like it.
Khopat & Sinful Reactions - "Black Out" Khopat is Vasco Pedrosa and has been in the game a long time. Sinful Reactions are 2 brothers Orlando Pereira and Luis Pereira who have had a couple of releases. The bassline rambles and the break at 3'30" is clever. Acid is present of course as a nice melody drops in at 4'19" to give the track a fuller feel. Some may find one of the leads a little shrill, but it doesn't kill the song. Not bad.
Orca - "kind of Rush" Loved his debut album, full of hard beats and melodies. This track has lasers, acid, and even a Detroit style rave sound that ups the groove meter. It almost sounds like it was done on a turntable. The intensity rises delivering quite a good track.
B-55- "Universe" Japanese duo Keisuke Fujiwara & Takashi Sekiya have been hit or miss with me. Some of their tracks are a little too dark for me, but the ones that appeal to me are smashes. This is one is a smash, dirty and funky, loud with an attitude. There are high tech noises that give it that futuristic atmosphere. Stellar.
Time Twisters- "Reborn" No idea who they are, but they did have a track on the "Not For Humnan Consumption" compilation. This one has time signature changes and is most assuredly different with arpeggios of chimes as well as dirty acid. The leads fit well with the groove sounds similar to what Frozen Ghost uses. Enjoyable.
Phatmatix- "Don't Get Me Mad Remix" Stephane Rault has the Midas touch. I don't think he has the ability to produce a poor track. His compilation work as well as his 2 albums are awesome. This one (a remix of his on "Manga") starts out with a cool British sample and it isn't long before it delves into dark territory. True to form, there is acid, groove and leads that creep about. He even put some electro influences in there. Very good.
Dapanji- "Brain Damage" These guys released an album? Never heard of it. They are Israeli duo Ran Rajuan & Daniel Aminov and they have the longest track on the album. And if their album is like this, I will pass. A lot of starts and stops, obligatory LSD sample, and full on to the core. Is Dapanji really Tetrium? How the hell did this get on here?
Toxic- "Rising Waves" Another Israeli duo Alon Atias & Avi Aboresi have released a ton of tracks on lots of comps. As prolific as they are, I find their musice to be good, but missing that extra something to put them over the top. This one wastes no time, bringing full power and an in your face style. It's pretty groovy, but plagued with a few too many builups for my taste. Good, but not great.
A-Team- "Yottabyte" Minor key psy bringing an air of uncertainty to the track. Around the 5 minute mark this beast picks up momentum right into a nice earthquake sample. It starts to growl, you can feel it getting angry. Once it does, it gets pretty heavy. Thick like Xerox's "Battleship." Pretty good.
All in all, quite the good compilation. There is a lot of energy and acidic craziness here, just the way I like it. B-55 is the standout for me, but most of the tracks bring something good to the table. Yabai continues to pump out quality twilight psy, and I was happy to add this to my collection. Recommended.
Mdk
Beatspace
"V/A - Alternative Colours"
in 2009
Posted
I just listened to the Liquid Flow track "Second Coming" and I have to say it is even more perfect than when I first had the new listening glow. Awesome feeling in this powerful offering.
Mdk