Jon Cocco

I recently produced and uploaded this video showcasing the wonderful, first two minutes of the opening track. Please no feedback on this thread, PM me or leave a page comment via youtube. Link:

Visions of the Past is a mid-tempo album with psy/goa and ambient influence. This album, not E-Mantra's new goa one (that I just wrote a full review on here: E-Mantra - Pathfinder) but this ambient-down/mid-tempo one - frustrates me. Because the first self-titled track for instance sounds so beautiful, powerful, tragic, and moody (like something out of a masterpiece film) only to abandon its amazing, characteristic/fantasy, storytelling sound for a beat (with sounds) not a fraction as engaging. If you want to listen to an artist who develops his wonderful storytelling sounds throughout the song, listen to tracks by Electrypnose: Neverending Story, Tripad, and Out There. Or a dozen-plus songs by Asura. I realize the styles are different. Nonetheless, imagine if the opening song here continued developing its amazing sound that captures the senses during the first 2:16 (I admit that before the beat kicked in was most engaging). This song deserves a better continuation or a stunning remix in my opinion, with the opening two minutes/sound and feel developed throughout, even if there's a transition. For the first two minutes I was listening to a masterpiece. The sounds that followed weren't bad, but could have been attached to a different song in comparison. Aside from that, Last Day Of The Butterfly, ​Forever, and Secluded Trails are the only other two tracks that have so far arrested my attention. Maybe my disappointment after the first two minutes of the opening is causing an unconscious aversion. Maybe I appreciate E-Mantra's mid/down-tempo work more when its placed at the end of a goa album (see 2009's Arcana and 2011's Pathfinder). I realize that some will disagree. I simply find that the beats and/or their emphasis on certain tracks distract from the melody/sound work at times, and make the album feel more repetitive than it should feel. I also feel this way about too much punch in Secluded Trails that continues good work otherwise. Maybe some of the tracks go on for too long. I'm trying to enjoy the moods, melodies and I keep hearing Bomp, Bomp, Bomp, etc... For the record, I'm looking to experience the surreal sounds via the opening song to its potential. Such moods I never find again. I feel as if my heart was opened early on, only left to be teased by a magnificent world that quickly melted away. I enjoy some of the psy/ambient, goa work that takes place throughout this mid-tempo album that some will really like. None of the songs are bad. I'm just saddened to see the beginning feelings evaporate as if the artist had another masterpiece album in mind. This artist can produce amazing moods which is why I wish he would have relied less on the hard, continuous beats (Hypnagogia for instance; to his credit, he varies up the sound/feel of the beats every other song more or less) and focused more on the amazing feelings, moods, and storytelling within. Its generally the intros here that pull me in the most. I find the album "too much" to enjoy straight through currently for some reason. Had I not been exposed to the first track, I'd probably enjoy the album more, so I may try to hearing in starting on track 2. PS: I just wanted to get this off my chest because this artist is so talented. I've been holding in these feelings for months. I do believe that numerous people will feel less conflicted and enjoy this album very much. I urge others to listen to the lengthier samples and decide for themselves because in all fairness, there is some good work here. And it's not often that a goa artist releases a mid-tempo (with goa elements/influence) album. Favorite tracks: 1(first two minutes are superb), 2, 3, 7. Listen to the longer samples here: http://www.saikosoun...ase.asp?id=8717

E-Mantra - Pathfinder Suntrip Records 2011 1. Pathfinder 2. Metamorphic Resonance 3. Dansul Ielelor (Neurosect Edit 2011) 4. Valley of the kings 5. Above the skies 6. Distant Signals 7. Afterglow 8. Approaching Nibiru (Eleusyn rmx) 9. Deep Descent 10. If there is nothing Pathfinder has stronger melodies than Arcana. But Is it better than the debut? Yes or no is anyone's opinion. 1. Pathfinder begins with an interesting alien-esque opening. A melody lead with various supports after the fourth minute enhance the song. The leading melody returns in the end that makes the song feel more structured in a good way here. This is a solid, catchy opening. B+ 2. Metamorphic Resonance gets tastier, more powerful as it progresses (especially after the two minute mark). The crazy, echoed goa sounds at 4:24 are delicious. The vehicle carries infectious goa designs, atmosphere, melody leads, power, dynamic energy/build-up, and more (i.e: echoes creatively placed to enhance certain sounds). The artist incorporates a signature sound/melody lead (from 3:48 to 4:50 via War of the Hierophants) from the Arcana album. It's very catchy!, though, I found that it stood out more, the way it was produced on the debut. It works very well here nonetheless, and elevates the imaginative track even further. This song is like soaring through a futuristic worm hole. Stunning track! A- 3. Dansul Ielelor (Neurosect Edit 2011) starts off with the strong, characteristic tune from the original and progresses well. The song seems to offer less absorbing work in the last few minutes. While I'm a huge fan of Dansul Ielelor on the debut, (my favourite uptempo song on Arcana) the new version is good. The original stood out to me more for its originality, but numerous details enhance this sci-fi solid remix. B+ 4. Valley of the kings begins with deeper sounding beat emphasis. The melody/sound work is fantastic, especially from the second to nearly fourth minute. The ambient notes flow well too. I simply wish that the part after the forth minute transition included work as engaging. There is a cool buildup just before the fifth minute, and some catchy goa sounds. The last segment just seems a bit anti-climactic, or lacking in what made the first two thirds so catchy. This is a good song that could have had a stronger final act. B+ 5. Above the skies takes off with a delectable, echoed effect in its first minute. The chilling ambient notes in the background are effective; I simply wish they took place more. You can hear them clearly around 1:40. A solid, leading layer soon enters that is very catchy, and the shuffling sound enhances it. A brief interlude via pan-flute opens to new harmonies until another interlude takes place. A new melody lead arrives, accompanied by a bouncy goa tune. Although the last third feels refreshing, it's approach softens the intensity of the track's previous two thirds I feel, and thus lessons the song's excitement to some degree. There are some nice sounds towards the end. I just wish that more took place to captivate me towards the end. Strong track. B+ 6. Distant Signals first third involves an incredibly catchy, driving sound (around 0:55...) that solidifies a contagiously driving rhythm. The beat is temporally lost during a relaxing transition that fronts a solid buildup into new formations. The next part sounds great, though I initially missed the driving feel early on that made the first third (or half) so sweet. Nonetheless, the song avoids monotony (too much of a good thing can lose its edge) and develops extremely well. The buildup/release around 4:50 is solid, and the layers compliment. Even though I loved the first act, and imagined the artist re-releasing the driving element (sound/feel around 0:55) in the last act with even more energy and intensity than ever before, I think he did a great job with the psychedelic and melody driven ending. Excellent track. A- 7. Afterglow begins with characteristic, sustained notes that take place throughout parts of the song; these providing a personality and add appeal. The gentle melody around 2:20 stands out in a good way, and another, more psychedelic one around 2:36 compliments it. The flight reaches a nice transition that fronts a delectable evolution of psy/goa trance! This is an example of a song that starts good and gets better as it progresses! A greater sense of intricacy takes place in the middle act, with great, echoed sound effects to boot. A tweaked, sustaining melody via 4:09 takes edge off the excitement; the song could have done without it, but it's not bad. Suddenly, a buildup ignites gear and the vehicle lifts higher at 5:36. Additional layers and variations amplify the broth, and the key (that later become sustained) notes via sixth minute provide a moody, attention-grabbing quality. Strong track! A- 8. Approaching Nibiru (Eleusyn rmx) has a intriguing introduction, excellent progression, and strong, background atmosphere that seems to be moving with the marvelous soundscapes. Just before the third minute, the song picks up with new moves, edge and rhythm. The style and approach here is phenomenal. The song continuously becomes more infectious as it moves forward. How the beat/sound switches up around 2:50 for instance is incredible, exciting. A gripping mid-tempo transition takes place after the fourth minute. Superb melodies enter around 4:25 and at this point (and to be fair, regardless), this is one of the best tracks I've heard all year. After a brief drum beat, the uptempo energy, now evolved, releases at 4:40. My gripe (or nitpick) here is that the uptempo work before 4:40 had been on a getting-more-infectious path. The last segment here sounds great, but along with the powerful rhythm, seems to lack something even more infectious (possibly another layer) to really make this thing stunning in its final moments. Some song examples Suntrip Record's artists that blew many of us away at the end of their tracks include: Filteria's Earthrise on the Daze Of Our Lives album, Khetzal's Djaningar (on the Corolle album), and Merr0w's Citrus Circus (on the Temple Of Chaos) compilation. The artist here is on the right track and includes a strong, memorable ending nonetheless. The song is superb. A- 9. Deep Descent is the first downtempo track. It makes me want to here the next Distant Systems album, just to hear even more great, space-ambient-influenced downtempo. There is a brief sound at 1:18 (spaced apart multiple times) that sounds like a baby alien throwing a temper tantrum. The track could have done without, or something in its place. Otherwise, the song is excellent. This up there with some of Distant Systems/Asura's best space ambient-influenced downtempo works. Had Filteria's Float Away and Disappear (last track on the Daze of Our Lives album) extended its catchiest (tasty psy/goa) part, and had a more seamless intro and outro, it could have been closer to the greatness here. Although the first several minutes are strong, the gradual emphasis/sounds after the third minute is even more arresting. Furthermore, the goa influence is absorbing. A- 10. If there is nothing is another psy/goa-influenced (mid or) downtempo track. The previous seemed to have more taking place and that which hooked me, but this is well done. There is some good atmosphere too, and catchy melodies that develop into the second half. B+ Conclusion: Pathfinder is great. I initially missed the deliciously psychedelic, mid-tempo passages that existed on some of the uptempo tracks on Arcana. But the artist has found a way to cross over some of that amazing work into the uptempo here! The melody/lead work in general is a big improvement too. Still, more melody/sound leads in the future would probably not hurt. I found more memorable tunes on Artifact303's Back To Space album, though the work here is more atmospheric and on numerous occasions, more psychedelic. Those who are looking for leading melodies to the extent of Filteria or Khetzal may want to look elsewhere. That said, this is a strong psychedelic goa-trance release. After the fifth time through, I continue to notice subtle alterations and psychedelic details. I found the uptempo work more or less repetitive on Arcana around the fantastic mid/down-tempo work with exception to Dansul Ielelor. That's not the case here. One of my gripes with Pathfinder is that a few of the songs could have had more memorable endings, or last segments/acts. That said, the songs are often interesting. They pack much energy. There are climaxes. The melody/sound (lead) work on Metamorphic Resonance for instance, is outstanding and includes some of the best buildup/energy moments and sounds I've heard all year! Also involving great leads (sound or otherwise) includes Distant Signals, Approaching Nibiru (Eleusyn Rmx), and Deep Descent. The album is creative, involving, immersive, and at times labyrinthine. In addition, E-Mantra's down/mid-tempo work is excellent. Deep Descent I currently favor over If There Is Nothing, but both are interesting and enjoyable space/ambient-goa pieces. This sequel is more homogenous than Arcana. While it is less risky in that it avoids mid-tempo goa designs in the uptempo songs that added creativity to Arcana (while making the debut less dance friendly I may add), Pathfinder takes other risks that often excel the uptempo work. This is a easily one of the best Psy/Goa albums of 2011. Favorite tracks: 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. A- Samples http://www.saikosoun...ase.asp?id=8914 http://www.suntripre...t/item/SUNCD23/ http://www.psyshop.c.../sut1cd023.html http://www.beatspace...er+/detail.aspx http://www.goastore....roducts_id=4676

Good news and book! Jackson is so important. I hope he directs. A 2012 release date would be nice. Check out this LOTR spoof with me as both wizards. http://youtu.be/ciDHdzz9Z1I

Great video! Someone got creative with this wonderful film speech. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WibmcsEGLKo&feature=youtube_gdata_player

"But then came the Great Depression followed closely by World War II, which resulted in a long succession of deficits that caused the federal debt to balloon from $16 billion in 1930 to $242 billion by 1946. (Adjusted for inflation, that's about $206 billion and $2.67 trillion, respectively.)" The US debt is more than 5 times TODAY what is was in the 1930's great depression. Source: http://www.time.com/...l#ixzz1aUkhYAs3

One of his memorable speeches. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc&feature=youtu.be

I like their new style and I miss their older, more musically dynamic, vocal-free one. Tracks like Crystalline and Shine (just to name a few) really stand out whether you like them or not. I think the repeating "I wanna shine" at the end of Shine was a bit unnecessary but a catchy track overall. I love the sound of Train. Musically it, or at least part of it sounds not far from a strong Solar Fields or Asura track. The tempo of the voice is good too, though I can't make out all of the words clearly. One of my few gripes is that with some tracks, the singing voice could be a little clearer; I can't make out some of the words (same with Coldplay at times). I also think the artists could have involved more clear lyrics/singing on aware topics, such as: letting go, being/breaking free, consciousness, a new awakening beyond the veil of greed, power, control, negativity (see my sig video below for more on this). I suppose in some ways they've touched on some of this here; the album could have gone deeper without getting heady, in my opinion. System 700 has more of a psy-influenced quality that the album lacks. I wish the final track was a little longer, and think that the overall album could have benefited having a track or two without lyrics. I'm thinking of the long-time fans here. No song on the album I loved to the degree of Psychic Gibben on their previous album, but I really like a handful of the songs here! Good release overall. I enjoy listening to it straight though. Favorites: 1, 2, 6, 8. B

This album is such a beautiful, underrated sequel to a fantastic debut.

My girlfriend and I made this short film that's based on our lives and how we met (at the park with Mary's little mini pin dog "Becks). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_sh7JG8Ywc

I like the first 4 tracks (track 3 over 4). Not track 5 though; it's redundant and drawn out IMO. I'm sure a few will like it though. The last three songs are solid. Overall this is a good album. I believe Antares can do better though as far as the whole album goes. There is some GREAT work here. Update: I've turned my short comment-esque review here into more of a real one below. Re: Antares - Stick to great tracks even though your the one I don't consider great (track 5) has some really nice elements. Learn from the feedback to grow and develop into an even better artist. You have loads of talent and have produced some of the most solid goatrance songs I've heard.

Artifact303 2011 Suntrip Records 1. Magnetic Fields is filled with energy; it builds, becomes catchier as it progresses which is the ideal way to go IMO. The middle act maintains a growing edge with integrated sounds standing out over the first few minutes. There is an incredible, soaring climax towards the final third. Great opening track where each acts improves and compliments the previous one(s) in my opinion. A- 2. Trancemission is not very eventful or memorable. The driving/shuffling sound, while initially catchy, eventually runs out of steam. The overall song feels a little empty and unfinished. It needs creative events, higher highs to grab and expand out minds. A memorable lead could have helped. In the center the music transitions and-- doesn't really improve the whole! I can't say that the track is bad per say, just pretty mediocre/forgettable, and in that sense-- disappointing. The good news is that, having heard the full album numerous times before writing this, I can honestly say that this is the only (weakest) track on the whole that stands out as a low (for me) and that the best is yet to come even if the two tracks that follow are moderately better but nothing exceptional. Bare with it because something really great happens halfway into the album that captures the album's second half! C 3. They Will Communicate is a big improvement over the last track. It's sound/melody work is catchier and therefore more enjoyable. A catchy part enters at around 3:45, and is supported by a beautiful melody at 3:11. This is very well done; it's filled with feeling. The song continuously develops more like the first, with many catchy ideas, and eventually into climax. Although I feel that the artist has yet to let go and take risks with the album, we're 3 for 4 so far. This song's pretty good! B 4. For A Better World is another solid dance number, excelled by sustained, ambient-esque notes, and rich melody paragraphs. There is a catchy psychedelic element as well. Overall this is a nice sounding, rhythmic piece of more mainstream friendly Goatrance. I simply found the first song more riveting in how it evolved. This plays it safe like the second and works while it's on, but by the time its done, you'll soon forget it (at least I do eery time I listen to it). B- 5. Tropical Sunset (the mid-tempo number) is beautiful, emotive, and arresting. This song breaks up the more invigorating tracks nicely. I don't mind that it's not on the end because it's softer than the others. The song continuously evolves and is catchy (sunrise influenced?) throughout. I'v never heard a song like this by Artifact303. This is my top favorite song on the album along with track 7 and 8. Super track. A- / A 6. Mysterious Fantasy is another great track with lots of energy, melody leads, movement, excitement, and delicacy. It has catchy (ambient and/or piano?) background notes too and a bag of cool ideas (the wild goa melody at 5:50) that keep me entertained throughout. Overall it seems like a lot of stuff is being thrown at me and most of it sticks quite well. There is so much sensation over substance however that the song feels fairly fleeting after it ends. B+ 7. Beyond Lightspeed has some of the best climactic work I've heard in a while. I prefer the first two (more cosmic) thirds before the last (ethnic-influenced) one that detracts a bit from the other-worldy feel created so well beforehand. Nonetheless, the song is fantastic. It's filled with sonic infectious melody/work, change up, speed, and rhythm throughout. Great buildup coupled with stunning climax work that begins around 2:28 and further ignites at 3:28 are just a few of what makes this song so good. The (beat filled) transition of sorts (from 4:00-6:10) is great too, and seems Filteria-influenced at times in a very good (inspired?) way. Keep this level of work coming. The less edgy, ethnic finale arrests my attention a little less, but it's a solid change of pace and hardly takes away from such an excellent track. A 8. Close Encounter is just incredible. If the original Pleiadians were together and decided to make a third Goa-Trance album today, this is what a super song from it might have sounded like this! I'm continuously hooked and cannot find a complaint, let alone a moment when I'm not compelled or riveted by the stunning work. So this artist has it in him to produce groundbreaking work after all... If this entire album was as stunning as the second half of Back To Space, well.. few albums get much better than that. Amazing track. Every time i listen to this.. wow. A 9. Delirium emphasizes background floating textures (i.e: E-Mantra) in Artifact303's style and is good, though it took time to grow on me. I really like the stronger beat, and how it leaves at times. The song could have used some fresh evolution towards the last few minutes (a catchier melody), but its break to mid (from down) tempo, the echoed female sounds, atmospheric and soundscapes are well done! A- Back To Space is my favourite Goa album by a main artist since Filteria's Daze of Our Lives. I've been listening to this album again and again and my biggest gripe is track 2. It's forgettable and could have been replaced by a better song. Nonetheless, this is a solid debut. There's many stand out moments and tracks, as if the artist took his time to enhance the package before submitting the final product. Magnetic Fields (and especially for many) Tropical Sunset, Beyond Lightspeed, and Close Encounter showcase excellent/superb work. Trancemission could have been better and remains melodic albeit bland. Other tracks not mentioned here are entertaining too, just nothing extraordinary. Lastly, the second half of the album is noticeably stronger than the first. Back To Space is a good if not great album and the best by the artist to date. Nice work! Favorite tracks - 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 B+

I just heard it for the first time. I suppose I'm in the minority here. Not a fan of dnb (find it monotonous) but the work around it is very good. Also I've given this NO time to grow on me yet. I like the self-titled Atropos track. The background is hypnotic, infectious. The melody work, hymns, and ambient in Unleash is excellent. How I'd love to hear a psychedelic goa-trance version of Unleash. The ambient and melodies in Hayashis Journey stood out to me too. The track introductions are interesting. The album has atmosphere too, very nice! The musical elements in Starchild's intro pull me in; they're immersive. I really like the non drum/bass influences and admit my drum/bass bias. Atropos (as an album) is creative and quite good, being a cross beween atmospheric dnb, psy, and what have you. I'm simply less enticed by drum and bass (or breaks?, isn't a bunch of this breaks?) and feel that a variety via electronic beats could have been fun too. That said, the artist keeping the beats for the most part separate (with few exceptions) add to each of his distinct albums, giving him time to flesh out what he can produce on each sub-genre while incorporating his imaginative style among it. Update: I was listening to Towards The End Of Time last night and WOW, what an infectiously catchy track! Not only this but other work on here. It seems more breaks at times than dnb. Regardless, I have finally seen the light and enjoying this album on a whole other spectrum as my perspective has opened up. It sounds better than ever before. Well done! Did anyone ever open a review thread for this? I couldn't find one.

Cybernetika: The Scythe Of Orion Ektoplazm Records 2010 1. Lost Technology 2. Impossible Mirage 3. Tyrannis 4. Transmitter 5. Cryostasis 6. Molecular Probe 7. Calling Mercurio The Scythe Of Orion is quite possibly the best Psytrance album of 2010 by a main artist. It's also one of the best Psytrance (with Goa touches) albums I have ever heard. The album is atmospheric, powerful, provocative, moody, innovative, homogenous and captivating from beginning to end. It also showcases some terrific, infectious synth lead melodies and it's dark! This is the album I wanted E-Mantra's debut to be. It has the Goa-influence synth leads in addition with the strong soundscape textures and atmosphere. The album has a sci-fi voyager edge. There are mystical elements to add to the mythos. Chapters flow like an exciting, mature and visual story. The whole album is like one giant magical, dark (and light!), space trip through the cosmos. Did I mention immersive and visionary? This is my most favourite album by Cybernetika to date! It is awesome. I could do a track-per-track review. This thing certainly deserves it. Cybernetika’s album combines dark and energetic Psychedelic Trance with Goa, Industrial, and what appears to be breaks and more. Each track is wildly characteristic, distinct and great if not excellent, superb. Then there's the arrangement, the attention to detail. Rarely is all of this possible with an album! I wouldn't change a thing on the album. It's imaginative, ambitious and engaging throughout. Thank you so much for this creative work of art. It's a masterful Psy/Goa Space album with edge, atmosphere, powerful nass lines, sci-fi influence, and fantastic synth melodies and sound work. Is a sequel possible? Please? Complaints? I had to reduce the score from a close 10 to a 9 because I didn't want people to pass out from it being too awesome. I'd rather you hear the album first. I have no complaints. Download for FREE here... Thank you Ektoplazm and Cybernetika! http://www.ektoplazm.com/2010/cybernetika-the-scythe-of-orion

Last album I heard from by was Nanospheric, an underrated, atmospheric gem in Psytrance. Update: I heard the full album today. How has a review thread not been opened for this? The Scythe Of Orion easily makes my top 5 best Psytrance albums of 2010. It's excellent. Thank you for this passionately crafted and imaginative release. The brooding atmosphere, soundscapes, background textures, and melody/sound work flow together and produce a rich, mythical (and otherworldly) edge. The Scythe Of Orion is one of the best albums of 2010, bar none.

Are we doing an official best of 2010 thread like the last several years? This is the closest thread I could find to it. Uptempo Top 2010 Albums 1. Cybernetika - The Scythe Of Orion 2. V/A - Temple of Chaos Downtempo/Chill Albums 1. Asura - 360 2. Electrypnose - Sweet Sadness 3. Psyfactor - Futurized 4. V/A - Ether 5. V/A - Earth My favorite TRACKS of 2010 include: Asura: 360 - Regenesis - Longing For Silence - Getsemani - Le Dernier Voyage Electrypnose: Sweet Sadness - Out There - Triste Gaîté Cybernetika - The Scythe Of Orion - Impossible Mirage - Tyrannis V/A - Temple of Chaos - Merr0w: Citrus Circus - Nebula Meltdown: Encrypted Illusion - Daimon (Antares): Codex - K.O.B: Lost Belly (of Civilization) Psyfactor: Futurized (album) - Space - Cassiopeya - Discovering Andromeda

V/A - Ether Altar Records 2010 1. Astropilot Feat. Chronos - EXPECTATIONS (8:30) 2. Flooting Grooves - TOWARD THE LIGHT (9:24) 3. Mr Peculiar feat. Athena Etana - ANCIENT TRIBES (8:00) 4. Astropilot - ANSWERS (7:21) 5. Tentura - FREE YOUR MIND (7:16) 6. Distant System - ASTRAL MAP ERROR (8:00) 7. E-Mantra - EMPTINESS (8:11) 8. Shakri - LOVE AND DEVOTION (5:52) 9. Lab's Cloud - WINDS FAIRY (6:29) 10. Asura - EVERLASTING (9:18) Ether is the new (and final) compilation in the elemental (downtempo/chill, downbeat/Psy) series, and features new and exclusive tracks by Distant System, E-Mantra, Asura, and more. What a surprise to end the year on. 1. Astropilot Feat. Chronos - Expectations is a gentle opening, coupled with flute, piano, an ambient backdrop, and more. The track has an Indian/ethnic edge, and a warm feel throughout. The piano and (what appears to be organic) guitar/strings really stand out, and add depth and feeling to the flowing stream. Good track. B 2. Flooting Grooves - Toward the Light begins very harmonious in nature, with an effective flute that appears throughout. The introduction is pleasant, relaxing. So far, this compilation has a tribal/ethnic-influenced vibe. A beat eventually arrives, and a variety of psy sounds. There's a transition roughly two-thirds of the way through that changes up the tribal/psy feel. The musical elements, with exception to the flute however entice me less, possibly in part due to the beat and bass line that grows somewhat monotones as the song progresses. The flute sounds good though. This isn't a bad song, but I find it the least interesting track on the album. Lets see what the next one offers. Decent track. C+ 3. Mr Peculiar feat. Athena Etana - Ancient Tribes starts off really well. I love the bouncing, psychedelic buzzing coupled with chopped up female hymns to the moody ambient score, ethnic-influence, and beat. The song's energy picks up around 2:26, and a delectable rhythm takes form. The rhythm and melody/sound work is psychedelic, tasty; it's excellent from 4:35 to 5:47, enhanced by numerous soundscapes, and a haunting female voice. Soon after that, the voice alterations seem more produced to me than necessary, but the overall track is really well done. B+ 4. Astropilot - Answers is even more beautiful than previous numbers. It begins with a warm, harmonious introduction, and a stand out ethnic-influence that appears to have influenced the album so far. The song has a pleasant, upbeat, winter Holiday sound to it, as if the bells and chimes are paving the way for spiritual gifts. The song is beautiful and flowing. Astropilot just released a main album called Here and Now too that also showcases some really beautiful work for those who are into quality psy/chill (mid/downtempo) music. The song is gripping throughout. The sound from 5:28 to 5:35 is effective, and that's not even going into the dreamy transition and the song's final third. Another strong track. B+ 5. Tentura - Free Your Mind has more pick up and energy early on, thanks to a strong (but not too upfront) beat), some really good psy work, and a solid development that takes off from its foundation around 2:04. This track provides the compilation with boost, subtle intensity (while exercising beauty), and momentum than I've so far experienced here. Look for the part where thanks to a creative, integrated work, the song sounds as if it's slowly taking (or getting ready to blast) off. Also effective is the interlude that keeps things interesting before the last solid segment. I really have nit picks with this or the previous track. Both are great. B+ 6. Distant System - Astral Map Error has a cutting edge opening; like something out of a futuristic film. I feel as if we're in an evolved time capsule or spaceship. This is enhanced by a cool voice sample; the track gives the album an entirely different dimension of quality too. Aside from the intriguing introduction, the growing, vibrating beat is hypnotic. I feel as if I'm being more pulled in to the song's addiction and vibe as it progresses. After a sweet, psy-esque whirl wind, the beat enters and the vehicle shifts gears or lifts off. Around the bass line and beat is a delectably layering rhythm, coupled with healthy sounds, melodies, and more. This space ambient-influenced song caught me completely off guard. I really enjoyed the artists Spiral Empire album, and to here him design a new, great track here is very cool. His work is terrific. The track doesn't seem ethnic-influenced as the previous ones, more or less, but that's good too. With all of its energy, the song somehow manages to integrate well with the rest of the album and provide it with some super direction. Excellent track! A- 7. E-Mantra - Emptiness comes across like a world of colorful images and sights, thanks to many layers including ambient notes, soundscapes, background textures, melodic elements, and numerous, segmental melody leads. Such leads appear echoed with the intent to stand out a little less (then they could have) but they swim with the other sounds nicely. The ambient-influenced part in the middle is well done too. In the first half, I'm caught by the melodic elements and the atmosphere. A second synth/melody lead from 5:12 to 6:00 also works well. This song appears to give E-Mantra more opportunity to produce melodies. The song seems to be telling a story here which is cool too. Even in its final 0:35 seconds, the song sounds so beautiful, this could have enhanced the track a little more earlier I feel. I think the opening could have been more seamless, but the overall structure and how the song develops and is sculptured is very well done. This is solid track throughout, and becomes more psychedelic albeit chilled, and gripping as it progresses. Great work! A- 8. Shakri - Love and Devotion is another healthy and atmospheric treat. I love the electronica-esque melodies in this track that blend seemlessly in with everything else. This is one of the best song by Shakri I've heard in a while. It has a really nice sound and development from start to finish. I'm not sure the instrument that leads the story hear, but it's great. There's lots of heart and feeling throughout the song too, especially in the final third. Simple? A little. But sometimes less is more. Great work! A- 9. Lab's Cloud - Winds Fairy is a dreamy, floating number, and one of the best song's I've heard by the artist to date. Again, this tells a story with a magical touch. Is that a flute? It's beautiful. I love the bubbly, psychedelic sounds, female hymns (gives the track a ethereal, fairy-tale edge). But once they disappear, this ambient-influenced number turns into a psychedelic Goa-influenced number that slightly reminds me of the final delicious track on Filteria's Daze of our Lives album. But the beginning and ending transitions are more seamless here. This is a really good track with a fantastic, psy/goa influenced middle section. Great work. A- 10. Asura - Everlasting starts out with gentle, but arresting ambient notes, and atmosphere that soon develops into one of the most intoxicating numbers of the year. Early on, the song has a feel as if I've heard something like this before, but can't quite place it. Either way, it is this song that I currently wish Asura's amazing 360 album ended with. I would have possibly therefore given that album a solid A, but who knows for sure. This is a beautiful, closing track. Like an awakening in addition to a dream coming true, a major good bye song. But Asura will be here for some time to come, likely prodicuing superb numbers as both on 360 and various Altar Record's compilations including this one. What vibes! This is an excellent, beautiful song! A In conclusion, Ether stands out far more than Altar Record's previous compilation (which had some great tracks on it too). I was simply not impressed with the second track. But the album really picks up, gets better after that. I wasn't expecting both Distant Systems and E-Mantra to be on a compilation. Both tracks are great and compliment the ethnic/indian, and tribal-influenced Chill feel established early on. And lets not forget Astropilot's work (his second track here I like the most), Shakri's number has some really catchy melodies, Tentura's number is very enjoyable, and more. But after all the pleasantries, I find Asura's song to be the jewel in the crown. It's deep and beautiful, as I imagined after hearing 360 by Asura which is IMO the best Chill album by a main artist in 2010. The overall album leaves me in a state of warmth, peace, and harmony. While some of the songs appear more simple than others, Ether is thoughtful, relaxing, and one of the most solid Chill compilations of 2010 so enjoy it! And give it a track or two to pick up. This is a good release! Favorite tracks: 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. B+ Samples / Order http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/alr/alr1cd005.html http://www.goastore.ch/product_info.php?products_id=4258&osCsid=c95f07c9566fcd091097f6f300053c34 http://altar.bandcamp.com/album/ether http://www.altar-records.com/ether.html

If I ranked Suntrip's releases from fave to least favourites. Main Artist Albums Filteria: Daze Of Our Lives ... A RA - 9th ... A- Filteria - Sky Input ... A- Khetzal - Corolle ... A- Filteria - Remixed + Unreleased ... A- Electrypnose - Sweet Sadness ... B+ Merr0w - Born Underwater ... B+ Radical Distortion - Psychedelic Dreams ... B+ E-Mantra - Arcana - B Filteria - Heliopolis ... B+ Goasia - From Other Spaces ... B+ Ka-Sol - Fairytales ... B Afgin - Astral Experience ... B Compilations V/A - Sundrops: Lights In Motion ... A- V/A - Temple of Chaos ... A- V/A - Apsara ... B+ V/A - Energy Waves ... A- V/A - Opus Iridium ... B+ V/A - Twist Dreams ... B

V/A - Spiritual Rising 01. Gazzuar - Glyzerin 02. Astrancer - Koilon 03. Hypnotic Signal - Seven Nights 04. Zed Reactor - Velzevul 05. Joseph Mcdonough - Mindgap 06. E-Mantra - Ragnarok 07. Radical Distortion - IR 3109 08. Amanians - DNA 09. Psychedelic Quest - Project Meditate I don't know if this is better than Temple Of Chaos. It's well done though. Mastering could be better though on several tracks; the beat in Seven Nights sounds fairly low in relation to the layers, but that one or two tracks are incredible. Which tracks are they? Let's look at the whole album. 01. Gazzuar - Glyzerin has a really nice, driving feel to it. It sounds fairly Full On Goa-influenced, but in a good way. If Astral Projection produced cool tracks (to Goa fans) today, it might sound not too far from this. There's some good atmosphere here too, and although the track sounds a too synthesized (at times), the positive prevails. Great track! Solid production too. B+ 02. Astrancer - Koilon has the most captivating first minute on the album for me. It becomes so loaded at 0:40 however, that I was initially concerned that all of its strength had been revealed early on, thus contributing to an exhaustion peek sooner than later. Fortunately, the music changes up at 3:17; ambient notes fuse with the layers at 3:34, and at 3:46, and there is a wonderful, structure shift (part) soon after that leads a beautiful path throughout much of the second half. Most of the arrangements are fantastic. The artist keeps things interesting, and even brings back the delicious part, with added textures, in the last fifth. The part from 8:10 to 8:35 is great too; the vehicle drives relentlessly during this segment through a reduced, albeit ethnic-influenced layers. Strong production. The song could have ended a little better though. Excellent track! A- 03. Hypnotic Signal - Seven Nights is currently one of my least favorite tracks here. The beat's too low; the layers sound fairly tinny compared to surrounding tracks. There's lots of nice ethnic-influenced melodies. But the song sounds so conventional to me; it goes through similar sounding movements I've heard so many times before, but through the delicate vision of the artist here. There's some psychedelic work in the second half that enhances the track. I'm simply not hooked like the first two songs. Weak production and mastering compared to the first two tracks. B- 04. Zed Reactor - Velzevul starts out as if it could be a new Xenomorph album. The track is a roller coaster (the people screaming as if in peril sound fx remind me of a literal, run-away-train). These effects are great. The song's a monster dance number as Voodoo Serano's Blood Is Pumping song was many years back. But this has a dark (and mainstream dance trance) Goa influence. My gripe (not really a flaw) is that it's loaded with so much sensation, -the song's not much more than a big, adrenaline pump. That said, the climactic elements (such as at 4:18) after a quadruple-plus lift is impressive as far as energy (pick-up) goes. I thought the haunted (as if stuck in an evil castle) interlude was interesting too, though it went on for longer than I anticipated (for a song of this energy). The last forth varies the climactic arrangement. It's pretty good stuff. The song is just all (or almost all) sensation, and the least Goa influenced track here. But it's great for what it's going for: high octane, crazy/wild, dance friendly madness. The voice samples towards the end aren't necessary though; some may consider them cheesy (I wouldn't argue). That said, this is a pretty cool track, but I'm going to hear something that's more in the spirt of Goa now. B+ 05. Joseph Mcdonough - Mindgap is another artist I've never heard of before, producing a solid, elegant, and driving number. A soft, atmospheric backdrop comprised of ambient notes compliment its fluid rhythm and harmony. Although the song seems to play it safe, I'm hooked by its combination of elegant sounds, production, and smooth, floating rhythm. Another solid track. B+ 06. E-Mantra - Ragnarok was the most anticipated track for me since Astrancer's. One could some this up as eight minutes of atmosphere. But that would be short-changing it dramatically. Layers appear like one on top of another early on. I wish they appeared more seamlessly; the beat sounds a little repetitive. But the sounds somehow blend together really well. One of my issues with E-Mantra is that their songs, though atmospheric, occasionally seem to have no clear direction. This would have been my issue on Koilon, had the second part of that song not taken place. ayers. After an interlude, from 2:22 to 2:40, some form of a lead (though I wish its echoes were more subtle) takes place, providing the track with more catch to groove into. Since E-Mantra's melody leads generally come and go, or are seldom present, the earlier one fades out; the song enters a second interlude. There's a story being told here, though it seems vague at times. The beat returns at 4:14; layers build up to accommodate a powerful sound at 4:28. Additional, gripping sounds arrive; the song's quite climactic here, and absorbing. A sweet Goa melody dances in the background, from 5:03 forward, though it seems to have no direction; it compliments the immersive feel. The sound could have used a deeper sense of warmth and feeling however, and E-Mantra's echoes are sometimes so obvious that they distract from various, other soundscapes at times. Somewhere I think a more prominent, tasty Goa lead would have worked, with ambient support, etc. E-Mantra's style and visionary work is nonetheless ambitious and interesting. While it's impressive on a technical level, the song lacks being fun, as if it's taking itself so seriously. The ambient notes sound good towards the end, but why wait until the end to emphasis feeling?; they could have enhanced the interludes. Overall this is an interesting, strong, and (to some degree) epic track. B+ 07. Radical Distortion - IR 3109 develops nicely. I like how the artist(s) combine elegant with rough work, often switching it up, changing arrangements, combining, building, and making their songs more psychedelic as they progress. There is a multi-whistle sound early on that somehow works with the warm melodies, though the arrangement doesn't grab my attention. A wild, dancing Goa tune before the second minute is far more catchy. After a conventional interlude, the middle third integrates more psy sounds, melodies, and readjusts its arrangement for one more tasty and fun. The work here sounds influenced from some of the work on Radical's Psychedelic Dreams album, and that's fine. I feel that the song lacks taking some risks however due to that. Numerous times, an old section will evolve to one more involved. An example is after the second (or so) interlude/buildup, from around 4:50 to 5:30 where the track feels more full and satisfying than before. The ambient notes are cool too; they produce more of a relaxed, traveling feel. Each segment is well built here. I simply find that the song is playing it safe; it keeps me entertained, but never arrests me on a grander level, as track 2 and 6 have. The ambient notes return in the last minute; they sound great, and musically, the track (since it went this warmer direction) could have involved more emotion possibly (feeling in that regard), after hearing some of PD's fantastic tracks on 2009's Psychedelic Dreams album. Good track, but nothing superb. B 08. Amanians - DNA starts out like a breathing dragon before all-out-war. There's lots of rage and emotion here; possibly this song is influenced by Merr0w's Citrus Circus. Or not. The song grabs my attention early on and doesn't loosen for a while, until around 2:55... it becomes more interesting once the raging repetion fades fairly at 3:30 to accommodate an interesting/ambient-influenced approach to its madness. Parts like these produce more depth, substance to a song that could otherwise wear think as it progresses (for some people). The return of energy at just under the fifth mark sounds great. At roughly 6:12, the raging rhythm fades to introduce another refreshing variation. This keeps me interested until the next round of crazy/wild, headtrip, psychedelic mania. From 8:21 to 8:50 is the most unexpected change up yet. Both the beat and music fades until near extinct. Suddenly, both slowly return, gradually picking up speed.. faster and faster. The effect provides dynamic rush sequences to a solidly crafted vehicle. I'm sure many listeners will like Amanians intense and relentless Goa approach, especially in this track here. I find it more interesting, less one-dimenionsal than Amanian's Fireworks track on 2009's V//A - People Walk album. Great work! A- 09. Psychedelic Quest - Project Meditate isn't bad at all, the more I hear it. The opening, skipping sounds are catchy. The song has a deeper (lower pitched) beat that arrives at 0:41; this took time to grow on me. The skipping sounds continue, as more fuse together. The first several minutes sound pretty good; the layers work well together, though that lower-pitched beat's just a little distracting. But the selected sound/melodies, and skipping effect works. They thankfully leave for new images at 2:31; a bubbly bit takes over before a more authoritarian, coupled with Pleiadian-esque/skipping melodies take place. The skipping melody then takes over; basically the song is like a path comprised of islands, as it moves from one section of ideas to the next. This works to some degree, though I find the track less epic, rich, or visionary because of this approach. The beat changing up refreshes the feel of the middle third; a tiny though effective enhancement. Key changes enhance the track later on; the story seems more congruent in that regard. In short, I expected more after the previous song. This isn't bad though; it's simply not one of my favorites. B In conclusion, this is one of the best Psy/Goa-Trance compilations of 2010 along with V/A - Energy Waves and V/A - Temple Of Chaos. While I clearly find the mastering better on other 2010 Goa releases, including Crossing Mind's The Holographic Paradigm, the overall mastering here isn't bad per say; it could be better on certain tracks. The compilations has many good/great songs. I didn't care for the melody/sound work in Seven Nights, and the sheer sensation of Zed Reactor's Velzevul wears off after a while, though it will be great on dance floors I imagine. That said, Glyzerin is extremely accessible and fun. Astrancer's Koilon is grand. E-Mantra's Ragnarok is immersive and hypnotic, although the sheer power of its atmosphere seems to stunt potential fun it could have had with its melody leads. Amanian's DNA is excellent too, and numerous others are solid, though stand out to me less than the ones I'm mentioning here. I'm glad to say that V/A - Spiritual Rising is a solid compilations for fans of Psychedelic Goa-Trance. Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 5, 6, 8. B+ Samples / Order here http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/eer/eer1cd003.html http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display_release.asp?id=8526

Crossing Mind - The Holographic Paradigm DAT Records 2010 1. Andromeda 2. Terminal Fantasy 3. Magnesia 4. Mental Escape 5. Hypnotropic 6. Lunatic Transfer 7. Psy Crise 8. United Pulse 9. Out Of Time The Holographic Paradigm is Crossing Mind's Psy/Goa-Trance debut album. For those familiar with their track on Suntrip Record's V/A - Temple of Chaos, I wasn't crazy with their track on there, but as even artist Merr0w later proved on his debut album, Crossing Mind has its chance to shatter past perceptions, and for those who enjoyed their previous work, raise their bar. 1. Andromeda begins with some very distorted psy sounds. They skip across the beat as a variety of sound effects coat the growing rhythm. A catchy, albeit gentle melody enters at 1:49 and is accompanied by sweet, buzzing sounds. The track sounds nice, but its grip has yet to tighten. After a brief interlude, the music returns with more layers, a grittier support, and an excellent, psy lead that arrives at 4:09. The song is becoming tastier, as the backdrop hums along the sweet, driving rhythm. It's a good track so far, but the part after the brief drum roll is great. This involves more of an emotive, story telling approach via the melody department. Soon however, the psy sounds take over, leaving the melodies to swim with the atmospheric backdrop. Unsure of the song's next move, an intricate sound combination rises up around 6:15, and is soon supported by tasty Goa melodies. I really like the melodically driving rhythm throughout this song, and its development into the sixth and seventh minute. I feel that it could have ended around 7:27 however; the track begins to build new energy in its last 1-2 minutes. Fortunately, the return of some old, more emotive elements is pleasant. While this isn't the best track here in my opinion, it's well done, and this is just the beginning. B+ 2. Terminal Fantasy is far more energetic than the previous number. The melodies are confident and strong; they stand out more than the previous track. The atmosphere is good too, and from 2:15-2:28 is the sweet buildup that provides a fantastic rush, the first on the album for me. This staccato chorus-like segment is very different from Talpa's The Kingdom track, however it reminds of a less-crazy version of its climax nonetheless. The song seems less choppy however, more fluid and in that regard, tasty. This part takes place for a good minute or two, until a far, more blistering psychedelic Goa-trance rhythm pours into overdrive, arresting the senses in the middle third. So there's two great lead rhythms taking place here in addition to the track's strong atmosphere, and numerous, supportive sounds. Moreover, there's change up, angles of distortion, and rearrangements in the final act that combine both previous and new elements for a dynamic, final third. The last minute takes off many of the layers, and the less combined approach sounds catchy as well. Great track. B+ 3. Magnesia has an interesting introduction, ending with the voice of a little girl before taking off. The beat seems emphasized by subtle sound emphasis, as a powerful Goa-esque lead enters at 2:08, soon overlapped by a rich, ethnic influenced lead. I really like the driving feel, the rhythm, and the emphasis on the beat; the latter stands out without being too upfront. After a brief interlude in which the music chills in the background, a little girl's voice signals the next stretch of madness. This involves a radically different approach involving distortion; the layers seem to be being shaken up, put in a blender, and reconstructed. The overall effect is wonderful; you can hear this psychedelic enrichment more clearly from 6:50-7:00. Magnesia is a dynamic and psychedelic track with strong melody/sound work, unpredictable twists, and a delicious blend of wild atmosphere. It's currently my favorite uptempo track on the album. Excellent track! A- 4. Mental Escape nearly skips the intro via beat. The fast paced melodies hook early on, though an intro would have been cool. At roughly 2:04, a new melody sentence arrives. It sounds pretty good, but grow a little repetitive as it moves forward. The arrangement is soon altered, though similar behavior seem to take place. I notice a variety of movement in the backdrop that's interesting. There's also a lower key/grinding sound (it stands out even more from 5:39 to 5:53) that's great. My issue is that the melodies seem almost secondary (or repetitive) at times to the solid psychedelic work around them. For instance, the melody section from 2:03 to 2:52 soon grows tired, as if it's on auto-pilot to some degree. This takes place soon after, and again from 7:00 to 7:32; I find these parts monotonous. The melody work on previous tracks was far more gripping. That said, the melody work combinations sound great from 5:54-6:15, and again from 6:37 to 6:55, and yet again from 7:56 to 8:15. I simply find a decent amount of the melody work here less arresting than on previous tracks. All other supportive work is well done. B 5. Hypnotropic begins with a short but interesting, ambient-influenced opening. Here the layers seem to be pouring out of a tunnel on top of a "rumbling" generator. The first several minutes are psychedelic heavy, though I'm not in love with the higher pitched focus and miss a melody lead. Not to worry, if your attention hasn't been grabbed yet, it likely will at 3:00 when the rhythm changes up to adopt a rough, drivingly deeper tone. A higher pitched lead arrives at 3:31; it's quite high (maybe higher than I prefer), though the Pleiadians had layers that went higher. What's interesting is the combination between high and low synth work. There is a strong, healthy balance that ripples through the track throughout the middle third. One takes place from 5:35 to 5:50, and all the meanwhile, the vehicle (overall song here) seems drenched in acid. The same seems true for many songs here, and I may be missing a whole other layer of comprehension to the album's depth. That said, an intentionally choppy/tasty rhythm is highlighted throughout the final third. There is more taking place in the background textures, though the undercurrent sound is very effective, reminding me of some of the work on the Battle of the Buddha's - Twin Sharkfins album. Psychedelic track! B+ 6. Lunatic Transfer is more to my liking; the leads stand out more. The background work is psychedelic as they've been on previous tracks too. The melody work is really gripping here, especially from 4:33 to 4:56, and again from 5:17 to 6:30; these sections include some of the most infectious and most enjoyable melody/sound work I've heard all year. The track's just heating up though. I won't spoil everything, but before the seventh minute, the song changes up, gains a second appetite. The complimentary sound of what could be a clock reaching midnight (or whatever that "bong..." is towards the end) is an interesting, little addition too. Excellent track. A- 7. Psy Crise begins with radio-esque voice samples, as if we're on a station in space. The introduction is interesting enough; there's some bubbly sounds; the gradual/layer building works well. A catchy melody arrives at 2:14. Pleiadian-esque sounds swirl in addition to acid lines. A variety of soundscapes swim into the liquid as the texture heavy backdrop changes form. The beat and sound that overlaps it works well here; the less intense approach via beat gives the album more variety. The song's composure seems more articulative. Those who enjoy their work drenched in psychedelia may take note of this and several, previous tracks. The song continues this bubbly ride, developing its higher-pitched rhythms, and sounds pretty good to me, nothing spectacular. Suddenly, the beat fades Sounds disappear into darkness at 6:12. The interlude's intriguing, as if we're deep (and moving) underground. It's creative, unpredictable (and catchy!) work like this that I enjoy; the space provides a chance for change up and direction, for the song involve and evolve more. Although there isn't a melody lead that I can point out (save for the one around 2:14), the ambient-influenced work (even in the last minute) is great! This is another strong track that seems more imagination in the second half, as it takes risks to build new terrain. I may be giving this less credit than it deserves. The overall track is interesting, well done! B+ 8. United Pulse ... the mega uptempo (before last) song on the album begins as if deep in a borrow somewhere, adjusting how it will approach surface until breaking through the Earth at 1:52. This is a good example of storytelling I think. The first track seemed to reflect elements, like chapters in a story by using emotive notes. This is no exception; there is this warm feeling throughout that hooks my senses early on, eliciting emotions. I feel involved with the track. A spacey interlude breaks up the middle before the vehicle takes off for its next evolution in orbit. The lower sound compliments a few of the other tracks; note or key changes produce more of an organized, orchestrated feel too. I felt a little lost on Mental Escape, but here I feel more immersed, as if more attention as been invested into both the arrangement and overall structure of the track. This is an interesting, smart number that keeps me hooked without overwhelming my senses to sheer psychedelia. Strong track. A- 9. Out Of Time is incredible. I would love to hear more work like this from Crossing Mind. This mid-tempo vehicle feels as if we're moving in a rover across Mars (or in a dune buggy in the dessert) as the gorgeous, orange/red sunset bleeds across the sky with illustrated treasure. I can even hear a (whether intended or not) subtle Pleiadian-esque area (from 3:04 to 3:19). I think these guys could pull off even more amazing work if they let those artists influence them a little more at times; they're work on this track is captivating. Things continue to change, blend, develop, and evolve; and the melody/sound work is deliciously combined to the trekking score. I love the atmosphere around the beat, how the beat is deliciously encountered by a variety of Goa melody/sounds, and effects. Underneath the fairly driving beat is an undercurrent that stands out from 4:57 to 5:11. The chopped up sound/braiding section towards the end is sweet too. My only issue is that the track seems unsure how to end, as it fades pretty quickly. I would have loved a more satisfying, conclusive ending. Otherwise, Out Of Time oozes with greatness; it's one of the richest, most underrated, imaginative, and absorbing songs I've heard so far all year. Stunning track! A- In conclusion, The Holographic Paradigm has tracks that are much better than the artist's Cyclone in Your Heart song on the Temple Of Chaos compilation. I'm actually a little surprised that Suntrip released that track when they could have possibly released one of these. This isn't what I'd consider a homogeneous release because it wasn't cut that way, but rather a compilation of (some, if not all of) Crossing Mind's best work to date. The result is an album that will appeal to fans of Goa/Psy trance in general. It's simply not a story-driven album. There are other releases out there for that. That said, there are some really great tracks here. As with Derango's Tumult, although this is completely different, Crossing Mind's style is very psychedelic. If not for the melodies, I probably wouldn't like their work as much. But the melodies, combined with the psychedelic heavy approach can be very impressive and fun. I simply wish the album was more homogenous because hearing it straight through isn't as enjoyable I find, as breaking it up over maybe two listens. There hasn't been many Psychedelic Goa-Trance releases in 2010, aside from the one mentioned above, Goasia, V/A's Energy Waves, Amithaba Buddha's Myself In The Mirror, and most recently V/A - Spiritual Rising. The Holographic Paradigm may be more psychedelic than any of the above if we were to somehow measure. It's a solid release with some amazing tracks and work on it. Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9. B+ Samples / Order Saikosounds http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display_release.asp?id=8522 Psyshop http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/dat/dat1cd003.html Amazon.co.uk http://www.amazon.co.uk/Holographic-Paradigm-Crossing-Mind/dp/B003UEMSFI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1287577704&sr=8-4 Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Holographic-Paradigm-Crossing-Mind/dp/B003UEMSFI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1287577677&sr=1-1

Asura - 360 Ultimae Records October, 2010 http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/1479/inr1cd043b.jpg 1. El-Hai (featuring Ayten) (6:02) 2. Regenesis (6:13) 3. Altered State (Album Edit) (8:55) 4. Atlantis Child (10:56) 5. Erase (6:05) 6. Halley Road (8:45) 7. Longing for Silence (8:13) 8. Getsemani (6:52) 9. Le Dernier Voyage (9:48) 10. Virgin Delight (9:40) 360 is the 4th album by Asura. Ultimae Records released Life², Asura's third album in 2007. Although the first two albums were very well done, Life² was a beautiful, homogeneous release, filled with gorgeous, ambient/trance influenced down and mid-tempo numbers. Some listener's complained however, that a few songs had beats too upfront relative to the wonderful music. Fortunately, such issues have been addressed in 360. But where does it rank as a chill/downtempo release? Read on for more. 1. El-Hai (featuring Ayten) opens the story with a marvelous, ethnic influenced downbeat number. It involves beautiful, foreign, female vocals backed by a rich and atmospheric backdrop. Gentle instrumental sounds enter, in addition to vibrant melody/sound work, a tribe-esque drum composition/score, and what appears to be numerous, organic elements. The song is beautiful, dreamy, and infectious. This is a fairly simple song, but its lush atmosphere, elegant, ethnic influence, and sound produce a strong and delicious recipe. Excellent track. A- 2. Regenesis begins atmospherically. The first half of the song appears more ethnic, ambient-influenced via downbeat. The idea behind the song's direction here, reminds me of some of the incredible direction/work on 2009's Solar Fields - Movements album. But through the vision and sound of Asura. The result is equally stunning. Without dragging, the atmospheric world here opens up at around 3:27 to one of the most gorgeous melody/sound compositions. I initially had no idea where this was going, until it elevated my senses in the second half like a mid-tempo rush, burst of flavors. The melody work in the second half is superb, and makes every second leading up to it worth it. Outstanding track! A 3. Altered State (Album Edit) is a remixed, remastered, more homogeneous and enjoyable version than the previous one from 2008's Opus Iridium compilation. I felt that the beat was too loud/noticeable in that version, and took away from the song's potential. In that sense (among others), the remix is a big improvement over the original. Furthermore, the song seems to have more of a variety of structure than previous tracks so far. Beginning with warm, ambient notes, soon integrated into atmosphere, the song establishes a solid foundation early on before the beat arrives. A unique and catchy/mechanical sound effect that enhances the first act, and at 2:52, things really get moving. A catchy instrument around 3:50 works well with the driving rhythm, as the atmospheric backdrop gradually washes away the beat to accommodate an interlude. The transition here is smooth, and makes the song feel more substantial and whole. While the melody/sound work stood to me more on the previous track, this is a remix nonetheless. The artist has given new life to a vision that had so much potential to grow; such growth is realized here. This is an excellent, superior remix/version of 2008's solid/downtempo Altered State song by Asura. A- / A 4. Atlantis Child starts off with a gentle, ambient-trance influenced introduction. The beat kicks in to the smooth surroundings at 1:55. What appears to be piano drives enhances the warm rhythm. The first few minutes are great, with tasteful foundation development. My issue is the passionate, male vocal hymns that enter at 3:11. I love the melody/note, the idea behind the voice; I think the delivery would have been more effective (and less distracting to the music), had an actual instrument, such as a violin, or something creatively tweaked been used instead. Asura's work is just so immersive on 360. I feel less involved whenever the voice/effects appear. Around that (and they're by no means bad), the song's terrific. The middle section involves the beat switching up; petals appear to be incorporated. There's a distorted effect, most prominent from 4:34 to 5:00 that sounds great; it builds interest and flows well with the returning harmonies after a solid transition. The track ends with several more hymns that I'm just not a big fan of. Overall, this is great, if not excellent song. I simply wish the hymns were replaced with a complimentary instrument, as I feel less "free" to the music with them in. Great track. A- 5. Erase seems different than other tracks here due to a variety of psy-influence that includes some dynamic, faster-paced mixing. Naturally, everything unique here takes place with attractive sounds. There's not much of a lead melody in the first couple minutes, but the psy approach is catchy and compliments the album. After a catchy, crunchy moment, a more evocative synth arrives. The beautiful sound/notes provide depth and feeling. Towards the end, as the sound fusion is most strong (roughly 5:09) involves a brief, male voice / singing shout of emotion- which I find unnecessary and distracting from the song's finesse. I understand the concept of the artist expressing certain ideas and feelings through the music, to add, enhance, impact, etc. I simply found this moment least necessary here. I'm sure some listeners won't mind it, as it's brief- no make or break. The song feels less epic than some of the others, but allows for breathing in that sense like cleansing the palette with something less JOURNEY-ESQUE. It works! Great track! B+ / A- 6. Halley Road has seemed to garnish a buzz on the internet due to its melody/sound work. It's like a sun dissolving the rainy clouds, or a transcending experience involving body, mind, spirit, and Source. If you've heard the samples, you have an idea of how great this song is. The track is surprisingly simple. The first half of the song evolves into an elevating score, buildup; the second is like where that ball of energy/buildup is released. So much is accomplished with so little here. Even though the song is set to one, continuous path, its heavenly sound and delivery is beautiful. Wonderful work! A 7. Longing for Silence is (for me at least) even better than Halley Road. As with the previous gem, this compels in being simple, but has more layers, emotionally. The song tells a story, or chapter that is sad, and poignant. The song becomes very evocative at this point, with the entrance of what appears to be a gentle instrument coupled with subtle, female hymns. Remember the end of the film, "Man On Fire" with Denzel Washington, when he (John Creasy) gives his life in exchange for the little girl's? As the antagonists are driving him away, powerful music (like in Gladiator) scores the scene as the camera focuses in on John's eye. A song like this would work wonders in a scene like that. It's beautiful, sad, haunting, and contemplative. Superb track. A 8. Getsemani is a provocative, mature ambient piece. It begins with thunder, dark clouds, followed by strong ambient notes that tell an incredible chapter to this story. There is so much emotion throughout the track. Upon hearing it, I have currently experienced internal imagery (and feelings associated with) a post-apocalyptic world. As the song plays out, I see a balloon floating. A little girl's shadow appears frozen in dust from a nuclear explosion, and a child some miles away endlessly on a corner, clutching his stuffed teddy bear. From death comes rebirth anyway, from "perceived" destruction is change, and without change, we remain stagnant, stoic, the same. That's what I get from the song anyway. From loss and sacrifice comes a deeper understanding of who we are (beyond our adopted ego). Maybe this philosophy, or at least the post-apocalyptic scene I imagined was not the artist's vision here. The latter likely wasn't. Regardless, there is so much feeling throughout the song. I'm sure many listeners will interpret the track different ways. I find it raw in emotion, kind of like Golgotha on the previous album, but more ambient-based. This track seems to have impressed my girlfriend more than any song on 360. She was speechless (in what later I learned was a good way; she was affected), and we shared our personal feelings associated with the song afterwards. Getsemani is powerful and superb from start to finish. A 9. Le Dernier Voyage begins with chilling, icy atmosphere. Since Halley Road, this album has gone from excellent to outstanding, a solid A from me. Anyway, the first two minutes involve a healthy blend of ambient-influenced rhythm. Intriguing tunes enter at 2:01. Not just any old tunes, but carefully selected, beautiful sounds like liquid flames in a world of ice. Another arrives and supports the blissful voyage, soon joined by numerous soundscapes. The backdrop simmers for a bit before the arrival of an even stronger band at 3:12. The first half of the song could almost be described as two solid, curiously integrated developments, before choosing a complimentary (initially invisible) direction better than both, or in other words, evolving. The sounds fade for a breezy transition that opens up to a beautiful, beat-driven part. From 3:50 forward, the track sustains strong formation, and remains gripping until the final seconds. Even with what appears to be some experimental work over the sixth minute (doesn't take away but) enhances the spirit with floating ambient notes. The final third of the song has an infectious, celestial/ambient layer that ever so slightly reminds me of the gorgeous ambient notes on Hallucinogen's L.S.D. track. In short, it's superb, and adds delicious icing to the current life. This is yet another example of the evolved sound I love from Asura. The song's arresting, without any vocal bit(s) to remove me from the immersive experience. Excellent track. A- 10. Virgin Delight begins with a wave of dreamy ambient that takes over the senses in the first two minutes. I visualize flying freely above the clouds. The gentle beat arrives at 2:05, along with a sustained tune that initially stood out to me a little too much, but its grown me. It's here that I notice the influence from Solar Field's wonderful "Introduction" track on the Mirror's Edge soundtrack. I love the first 4:47 minutes of this song. I'd give it an A- to an A alone, but I'm looking at the whole. Many lush soundscapes and warm melodies swim throughout this creature, reflecting peace, freedom, love, and light. It appears that Magnus's gentle sound has been re-imagined to some degree, and the result is intoxicating. The female vocals from 3:41 to 4:47 flows beautifully with the other sounds. The beat leaves at 4:02, and beginning at roughly 4:48, a psy sound effect-driven interlude takes place. Unfortunately, the interlude seems too broken up, even a little random at times; it's ultimately less substantial, fulfilling, and confident than the previous section, and unfortunately off-sets the rest of the track for me. Maybe it's here possibly to reduce the sense of repetition. I feel that an opportunity to elevate the first 4-5 minutes to a whole new musical level of greatness (before seamlessly merging with the final act) has been missed. So in short, the middle segment is far less riveting and satisfying than the work around it. Otherwise, the song has many nice elements, a heavenly sound, is different in many ways than Intro on Mirror's Edge, and I've fallen in love with the first half. The overall track is simply not the masterpiece I had hoped to perceive it as. B+ In conclusion, 360 is the best Chill/Downtempo album I've heard so far all year. Simply put, this is Asura's most passionate, beautiful, and best album yet. Some of the work is relatively softer than Asura's previous work, and this "less intense" with the beats (for instance) approach I find more effective, satisfying. The beats aren't too soft; they're simply less evasive as they were on a few tracks in Life². There appears at times some influence to Solar Fields - Movements album, but this feels like a true Asura release, albeit one that has evolved, improved dramatically (in some ways) from 2007's Life². My gripes are that I wish an instrumental sound was used in Atlantis Child as opposed to the male hymns (appearing at times). The "hymns" don't destroy the track; some people may enjoy them. I simply don't. Add that to a couple sounds, whispers (towards the very end of Erase). And the last track, though influenced to some degree from Magnus's self-titled "Introduction" song on the Mirror's Edge Soundtrack, could have done more to separate itself (and possibly triumph its beauty in the middle) from it. Aside from these few quirks however, the album is stunning. I could throw a dart and any track it lands on will be great; that's when you know an album is really special. The album is so beautiful actually, that it's hard for me to not recommend this album to virtually anyone into music, especially listeners of downtempo, chill, ambient, etc. This is one of those albums that I think almost anyone who hears it will either like or love. For the record, I have yet to hear a better Chill album in 2010. Asura's 360 was well worth the wait. It's fantastic. Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 A Samples / Order Ultimae http://www.ultimae.com/en/releases/486/tracks.html Beatspace http://beatspace.com/dettagli/dettaglio.asp?id=5958 Psyshop http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/inr/inr1cd043.html Goastore http://www.goastore.ch/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=Asura+&osCsid=32d2f44b372c83fe061cae977e446400&x=0&y=0 Amazon.co.uk http://www.amazon.co.uk/360/dp/B004784FUW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1289234600&sr=8-3-catcorr

Psyfactor - Futurised Ajana Recordd 2010 1. Discovering Andromeda - 5:38 2. Flying Dolphins - 7:23 3. Are We Alone - 6:12 4. Futurised - 6:27 5. In Space - 6:00 6. Above And Beyond - 7:45 7. Cassiopeya - 7:03 8. Over The Edge - 6:53 9. Back In Time - 5:52 10. Purple Sky - 6:37 11. Neptunes Waves - 5:58 12. Out Of This World - 5:28 Futurised is the second ambient-influenced, Psy/Chill album by Psyfactor since the release of Endless Universe in 2008. I never heard that album (save for samples) so I can't really comment, but read some positive reviews on it. That said, a full review ensues of this new Psy/Chill release. 1. Discovering Andromeda begins as a dreamy, ambient-influenced score. There's what appears to be an altered goat and/or individual's voice laughing that somehow works wonders. A chilled, downbeat kick drum enters around 1:52. The song moves forward, surrounded by gorgeous soundscapes, emotive melodic and psy sounds. These have been combined very well, producing a heavenly backdrop. I love the beat, and virtually all ingredients throughout the track until the last thirty-eight (or so) seconds, the latter where the track seems unsure when to end. I think that the beat could have continued just a little longer; fortunately, the section with the beat changes up and avoids repetition. An evocative score pours across the layers like liquid at around 3:32. The entire world seems to be swimming in colors and lights; with elements ranging from romantic to intoxicating. The last minute or two could have used a little more touching up (direction and magic). But the first two thirds are engaging, and showcase strong craftsmanship. This is a magical, tasty, and beautiful opening track. It's sensual too. I love it. B+ 2. Flying Dolphins starts out with many psy sounds/scapes that are enhanced with ambient notes, multiple layers of ambient notes actually. There's an curiuos, fast paced sound/melody rising and lowering. It's soon met with more zesty, psy notes. Those notes temporally disappear to front a brief moment of breath before the song takes off via beat at 2:31. I really like this part, as the song seems to balance beauty and sensation fairly well. More notes arrive, some echoed; they carry the song to new areas of the land, and to a calm clearing, before soon taking off again. Tiny, melodic ingredients are gradually placed into the bigger pot, though the beat could have possibly changed up a little. The song seems almost bursting with sounds, for better or worse, and has less of a magical feel than the previous track. Furthermore, the sounds seem almost too layered at times; they don't flow as well, nor seem as congruent as the first. Overall this is a pretty good track with an experimental edge; I give the artist credit for taking risks. I'm simply not in love with the song. B- 3. Are We Alone begins with strong ambient notes that soon melt into a warm and intriguing, psy backdrop. Now THIS is the sound I love from this artist so far. I think the previous track was trying too hard. We're taken through a peaceful aura of colors in the first half. A slow, fairly soft beat appears, soon changing up, and letting the sounds breath in the infinite universe. At around 3:12, a tasty psy sound (like a skipping melody) trips over the reoccurring beat. The song develops nicely, and enters an evolved, celestial realm at around 4:10. There are so many nice elements working together here, yet none seem to overpower the other. In the last minute, the song loses its beat and elegantly returns to its contemplative, ambient-influenced direction. This is one of the most solid tracks by Psyfactor I've heard, and with a more satisfying ending than the opening, psy/chill number. Very good track! B+ 4. Futurised is an energetic and driving, uptempo number. It's loaded with cool sounds, melodic elements, ambient notes, flying soundscapes, and a fast, motivating beat from near start to finish. Although I found the second song fairly good at best, I better see the draw to Psyfactor's non-psytrance, uptempo work with this one. The beat provides an intense energy and gives the album more variety. I'm not bothered that the song seems more beat/driven than that with melodies, although there are many melodic elements. The style, approach, and energy is inviting and catchy enough. Cool track. B 5. In Space is my favorite uptempo track on the album. This is an energetically driving, sweetly textured, and visceral/pulsating electronica/psychill number. The kickass beat, and how it changes up around 3:30 reminds me of some of my favorite electronica tracks growing up by Prodigy, Chemical Brothers. But before the track falls into Psy-influenced techno, the artist changes up the beat in the second half after a fantastic interlude. Suddenly, the vehicle takes off with what appears to be breaks around the core energy and rhythm of the ride. Both my girlfriend and I really like how the song takes off and develops, as well as the break/beat (and all other) work in the second half. I don't quite understand why some people don't like song; to each their own. This is one of my favorite songs of 2010. Excellent work. A 6. Above And Beyond seems to have received some criticism, but I like to judge a track for myself, so I'm giving it the benefit of the doubt. This song begins more ambient based, and gradually attains many (to near exorbitant) sounds. A chilled beat arrives around 1:19 after a short, catchy lift. The song takes off, though remains down or mid-tempo. Melodies enter one after another, but the ambient notes really stand out as well done. They give subtle direction through the horizon until around 2:22 where a string of melodies pick up. Currently, the song is good. A peaceful interlude takes place at 2:57. Here is where new sounds arrive, particularly two or three (what I'll call) distorted, echoing cords. These distorted cords unfortunately get into trouble later on. Focusing on the song's continuation, the beat returns, and like a gentle tornado in concept: it absorbs numerous sounds around its deep, yet fairly soft and arresting movement. The beat works very well here, and as we cross over the forth minute. The problem is the distorted cords; they seem to become more out of sync to the point of distraction. There is a lot of overlap here, and in the case of the simultaneous pair of distorted cords; such overlap seems to throw off the measure, the timing of the beats. In this sense, I would have removed them entirely, or added something that better takes place. This flaw and/or gripe is heard without almost all other sounds in the last minute. I find it very distracting, and I have difficulty enjoying the song unfortunately due to this technical complication. C 7. Cassiopeya is a big improvement after the previous number. I realize that the artist likes to experiment, but this is the song I would have replaced the previous one with, as it's strikingly attractive, elegant, and catchy. The first ambient-influenced minute appears to incorporate numerous ticks, clicks, hi-hats, and various other elements that appear to produce a beat-free power. A shortly lived beat (great work) soon emerges, and updates itself into an even faster combination. The echoed melody at 2:24 I find rather simple, less contagious. However the ambient notes around 2:40 are very well done. The song is elevated by a lovely, musical fusion at 2:56. This part is wonderful, transcending. The artist pulls it off to an energetic beat those temporal excuses itself, in place of a beautiful interlude, from 4:17 to 5:03. At this point I've felt involved; I'm now enamored by the vibrant energy and harmonies entering. The beat returns as beautiful hymn-esque sounds layer a wonderous backdrop. Then they leave to accomidate a catchy, beat encore in the last minute before the warm atmosphere overpowers the final seconds. This is a strong and passionately produced number filled with lush atmosphere, elements, and harmonies. A- 8. Over The Edge is a healthy follow up to tasty, psy/chill, ambient-influence. The song sounds quite experimental, and although there are many sounds, none seem over worked or crammed. I really like when the artist takes time to develop the harmonies and backdrops, in addition to having unexpected, infectious elements at times. A psychedelic wave trips across the ambient notes and rhythm projected in the first half. The song seems to be growing, sculpturing itself to the magnetic sounds as it progresses. Then, at around 3:45, and before the track dragged for too long, a bizarre yet gripping sound combination enters. It's as if two insects are talking to one another. However both sounds play off each other to near simplicity and brilliance. The flow well, as the bass line appears to strengthen. Towards the final third, the entire melody approach changes up, though remains intact with the dreamy backdrop. I really like this track. It sounds inventive, creative, and diverse in ideas, while remaining solid throughout. Good track! B 9. Back In Time begins with numerous ambient layers. A strong melody enters at 0:32, and is soon enriched by ambient notes, a soft, but deep and effective beat, hymns, psy sounds, sustained melodies, and we're not even at the second minute yet. The beat soon picks up, becomes harder, more effective after the intro. The melodies are good here too, though the initial main melody remind me of a song I have by electronica artist Velvet Acid Christ. The song has a gripping interlude where the beat changes up and chills in the background to the atmospheric/psy elements taking place. It soon returns with its changed up momentum; the song avoids repetition by rebuilding in a sense, many new elements, and tweaking previous sound walls to the new skyscraper. In the final third, the strong beat arrives; it gives the song a more substantial, supportive feel. This is a good psy/chill mid-tempo number. I like the emotive, harmonious feel, coupled with floating backdrop, and beat work. There could have been some cool break work mixed in after the interlude I think, but that's no big deal. The song flows well and keeps my attention throughout. Good track! B 10. Purple Sky is a strong ambient-influenced number. The powerful bass line (without overdoing it) is great, and reminds me of some of Solar Field's recent work. I would have liked if maybe the melodies were developed a little more, but they sound good. There's some clever, dynamic mixing; the beat work is excellent, and sounds great with the melody/sound work, lush atmosphere, and ambient notes. The latter has supported the album nicely. It would have been nice if maybe more were done to build upon the tone and feel of the strong bass line early on. As the song seems to go through numerous sound details in order to hold the listeners attention. Take Solar Field's for example, who adds many details but also accomplishes so much power with grace, and typically less animation. Overall this is a pretty good track. B- 11. Neptunes Waves is yet anther ambient-influenced ride, albeit a consistent (without much of a beat) one throughout. It sounds nice, but I find the overall track more monotonous than the others, lacking in emotion and intrigue. What appears to be piano enters towards the end, but there are very few notes; not much seems to happen. I think piano in general can add good emotion depending on the artist's vision and musical abilities. The song here sounds less ambitious than the other tracks. It's okay, but kind of forgettable compared to many others I feel. C+ 12. Out Of This World utilizes a beat to support the melody work. I suppose the song is more interesting than the previous number, at least for the first half, as it seems unsure where/when to end. Among all of the sounds however, I find very little that arrests my attention. Sure, much of it sounds nice. I would have preferred if less subtle work was incorporated in these final moments, or last two tracks. Many nice sounds take place, but not much relative to structure or direction seems to happen. I'm left unsatisfied in this final chapter. Towards the last two minutes, it seems that whatever support this may have had, disappears; sounds kind of pour all over the place. It sounds kind of random to me, and not as congruent as the previous songs. That said, Psy/Ambient lovers may better appreciate this atmospheric number since it is more Psy/ambient based. C+ In conclusion, Futurizeed is an interesting release with some very strong work/tracks on it. This isn't ambient alone per say. Tracks are loaded with numerous elements. Some involve driving beats of various kinds. Others incorporate a down/mid-tempo feel. There's plenty of uptempo work too. The album isn't perfect though. For instance, the beautiful, sunrise, psy/chill opening could have had a clearer ending, and Above And Beyond "becomes a big mess" (my girlfriend's words, though she loved the opening) after the first several minutes. Flying Dolphins seems to involve almost too many sounds at times, and at the expense of numerous sounds appearing less connected with others. But I like it to some degree, and it's through experimenting in part that the artist's work has matured. While I'm getting my negatives out of the way, I'll add that the last two tracks don't interest me, and a track or two in the second half seems similar in beat to one earlier on, and the mastering could be better (especially track 6 which makes me want to pull my hair out the more it progresses). Relative to positives: Psyfactor seems to break, or at least bend conventions at times, combine sub-genres, and basically come up with his own. For starters, I love the opening, chilled track, which could have been inspired from Goa, to Psy/Chill, and downbeat. Both Discovering Andromeda and In Space put a smile on my face, similar to the way I used to feel when listening to one of my favorite tracks by Prodigy, Chemical Brothers, or Crystal Method, thanks to having strong direction, melody/sound work, beats, and energy. Naturally, these aren't techno songs, but deliciously influenced psy/chill numbers with lots of psy, ambient, down/mid, and uptempo work. The beats (and the changing up of them) are generally great throughout the album too. Furthermore, Cassiopeya is just beautiful. Generally speaking, there's no limit to improving, and if the artist's third psy/chill album can correct and strengthen what was weak here, a masterpiece (yes, it's a subjective word) album may not be far away. Futurized is an interesting, well done album with a handful of very good tracks on it. While there's some room for improvement (the same can be said for every artist), I'm currently adding this to my top 5 Psy/Chill (includes downbeat, ambient-influenced) albums of 2010. Good release. Favorite tracks: 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9. B Samples / Orders http://www.saikosoun...ase.asp?id=8409 http://www.psyshop.c.../aja1cd012.html It's on Amazon too and I imagine various other sites too.

Finally had a chance to get it and post a review. The album's great. What do you guys think? The review thread's now open. See below. http://www.psynews.org/forums/index.php?/topic/59923-electrypnose-sweet-sadness/