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Jon Cocco
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What's the story with this album? Their debut was so popular here when it released in 2006. Did anyone else get this album who has more to say? I could never find a review thread for some reason.
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Great album with a healthy and evolving sound to various degrees throughout. Unfortunately, I never heard their follow up album to date. The samples sounded different (less psytrance) to this one. It would be really nice if they made a strong psytrance album closer to what lacked in layers though what worked best (MELODIES). I really liked their driving, edgy, and philosophy/mystic driven style, and for those who like tribal psytrance, this has a solid track or two. The album's grown on me over the years in a positive way, though I notice 4/5 seem to like it. That's still high compared to many albums now days. I remember being quite popular here when it released. Then the second one arrived and no one seemed to know about it, no review thread to date, nothing.
Anyway I hope they make a delicious Psy/Goa-trance album in time for one of our end-of-the-year holidays.
They actually have a 2nd album out now i noticed. any good?
I too wondered this over the years. My only assumption is that it wasn't stronger than the first, and people overlooked it (or they released it too soon after the first!), but I cannot say for certain. They have potential to produce a real fireball yet. Cheesy (okay any at this point coherent singing/lyrics will hurt their work in psytrance).
Mantrix : Neoteric
Track list :
1. Undercurrent
2. Solid State Logic
3. End Of Time
4. Come Get Some
5. Interconnector
6. Infinity
7. Turn On Your Brain
8. Shine
Samples to Mantrix's second album
What I like: The first 2-3 energetic tracks and "Interconnector" (the crisp and evolving sound and style). Shine (minus words, ack). This is what people generally like from them. I wish they'd put more energy into that more!
What I don't like: Overuse of and/or words on Come Get Some and Infinity. It's no wonder this album was less popular. The music is good and then (on few tracks) cheesy singing/lyrics come in. Prodigy and Chemical Brothers got away with it, but Mantrix's music is good and imaginative enough to breath and move fluidly without it.
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=6994 -
V/A - People Walk Funny
Cronomi Records
2009
01. O.O.O.D.- Freon (First Time Lucky '98 Mix) ... 08:27
02. New Born - Purity ... 07:52
03. K.O.B. - Go Cyborg! ... 08:06
04. Jikkenteki - Automagic (Subra Remix) ... 07:53
05. PortaMento - Sugar Shock ... 07:37
06. Liquid Flow - Synergy ... 08:12
07. Artifact303 - Levitation Device ... 09:26
08. Amanians - Fireworks ... 06:45
09. Artha - Sannjasin ... 10:04
10. Unknown Artist - Untitled ... 00:28
V/A - People Walk Funny is a growingly popular 2009 Psy/Goa-Trance compilation by Cronomi Records who better watch out. They're not allowed to lose their sword after sharpening it with this release.
1. O.O.O.D.- Freon (First Time Lucky '98 Mix) starts interesting, sounds more like an intro track (as is here) to an album then a dance song. Granted they were making something less energetic (I presume they knew they were doing the intro). Nonetheless, the song is fairly good; I find it the least strong here. Not because it isn't high octane. It's not bad though. I occasionally skip it to hear the uptempo numbers. Moreover, the song has a repetition that grows tired for me at times; other times though the song sounds just right, though simple, moreso during the first half, before various ideas recycle. Musically the track has some good elements. B-
2. New Born - Purity is the first energy pill on the album. A good melody lead compliments its Goa/Psy work. A harmonic melody begins around 1:00 and skips around the beat until a short interlude which softens the tune to compensate for a clear and present backdrop. The tune is reprised around 2:08, an effective little lead around carefully articulated atmosphere, backdrops. Into the second and third minute, the song builds well around its star lead. The song becomes more psychedelic into its second act; I'm simply less enamored here, sound wise. The second interlude around 5:10 is curious; the main tune is lost as little sounds release into the background, but not much occurs ahead of this that's new or gripping. This is a pretty good track. B
3. K.O.B. - Go Cyborg! is Jannis of Filteria doing a completely new and novel sound and style/artist, as this debut to-my-knowledge track by the anticipated K.O.B. It's a great, playful, and energetic/catchy track and if he can make more on this level, the artist should make more tracks. Great work. For me this is the first great track on the album. B+
4. Jikkenteki - Automagic (Subra Remix) offeres another high octane blast, this one more intricate thanks to Jikkenteki's wild, elaborate, technological, tasty style. To be honest, I find it a bit too machinic for my tastes, though it's still very good and/or great. Unfortunately, there's a metallic tune/sound that hurts my ears, from around 0:40 to 3:46 or 3:52.. it fades and basically ends around 4:53. It just really bothers my ears for some reason, and I with the artist used a less piercing melody because I generally love his psychedelic style. That said, the section from 4:55 forward is the infectious story-telling that's a dream come true from this artist. Furthermore, the evolution, the final act (third) is excellent. Overall, this is a strong track with moments of greatness. B+
5. PortaMento - Sugar Shock is another solid track with gritty sounds around the beat. For some reason I find the thick, gritty textures a little sharp a la the previous track, but maybe that's just me. I like how the energy increases, develops into the final third. Layers pull back from the mid-third minute until 4:38 where the tone shifts, creating a contemplative mid space. Build up elevates the interlude until the general music returns around 5:30. The Goa melody that enters around 6:24 is good. The song's quite psychedelic and offers a tasty metallic sound a la Toi Doi - Technologic (album) that compliments the track. Good/great track. B+
6. Liquid Flow - Synergy is more to my liking than the previous two tracks that were also strong. I love the melody/sound work here, how it takes off. The song flows. More gentle sounds surround the driving rhythm beat. It's all very delectable and high speed while incorporating more elegant sounds. B+ / A-
7. Artifact303 - Levitation Device is excellent. This is a super song with three super acts. At the lowest I would give this a 9/10, and that's the lowest. This is a clobber popper, a super dance song with no silly voice samples to age it via 2009. The only reason why I wouldn't give it a solid A is because I find certain parts excellent, not superb, but that's subjective. This song is awesome; each act is gripping, infectious, with an ending that is wonderful, beautiful, delicious! Thank you Artifact for producing another gem in the Psy/Goa genre. This is one of their best tracks, period. Keeping it up. A-
8. Amanians - Fireworks is a ballsy, angry, and daring stress creator, or stress reliever depending on one's perception. It's a pocket of aggressive energy and fire, possibly darkness perceived. To those who thought edgy/dark Goa ended with Tandu, Menis, and very few others, your wrong. This is an acid temper on adrenaline, a non-stop driver that could be in a new Resident Evil game during one of its most climactic moments. While Goa/Psytrance songs are seldom this intense and an entire album in this style would be too much IMO, having a track like this here is sweet. It is one-dimensional for the most part, but builds, an interlude compliments its changing anarchy, decent into chaos but in this case. The song is uncompromising and hellbent, effective in that sense. I have heard this interesting, dark/driving Goa concept done before by Tandu (for example) with more infectious sounds, a more dynamic structure utilized and created respectively, hence my grade. Nonetheless, strong work. B+
9. Artha - Sannjasin is another hard edged psychedelic Goa number. Again it has certain synth work and/or sounds that I find sharper than preferred by me. But some will love these harder edged sounds. Great track. B+
10. Unknown Artist - Untitled (00:28) is a little moment that sounds completely pointless here, like a song just beginning that suddenly ends abrupt. It's presence; I don't know. Doesn't seem to belong here. I won't even bother scoring it.
In conclusion, People Walk Funny is great, and the best uptempo compilation I bought thus far in 2009. I agree with Rino to some degree. Goa/Psy compilation aren't usually this consistently aggressive, mischievous (at times). The energy on the compilation has been overlooked to some degree in place of the more maximal, sunrise, and general Indian and/or Eastern Goa sound over the years. While I'm not a fan of the slower opening track, it isn't bad. I like O.O.O.D., but I don't care for the opening. The comp gets good/great (occasionally dark, edgy, fierce) after that however, offering some of the best Goa/Psy-Trance songs of the year and in new school Goa/Psy-Trance. This will win many plays in your disc or iTunes. It's one of the best new school comps along with Apsara, Opus Iridium, and very few others. There are some feelings around the intensity, such as on Artifact's excellent third act, as well as Artha's Sannjasin; great stuff. This is generally not a compilation for those into sweet and/or sunrise melodies; it's more nighttime driving, at times intense, dark and/or edgy, and PSYCHEDELIC. I recommend it.
Favorite tracks - 3, 6, 7, 8, 9.
B+
Samples / Orders
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7839
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After several weeks and many (I mean MANY) listens, I have this to say.
01. Zymosis - Zeta Bieng [Flute Mix] is arguably the weakest track on the compilation. I won't argue that. I occasionally listen to it though, as the compilation improves dramatically afterwards.
02. Aquascape & Skydan - Voice Of The Universe is awesome. It's dreamy and transcending. The first half to two thirds is magical.
03. Dj Zen & Jace - Speak Your Mind [Open Air Mix] is very well done. There is a part in the middle where the entire thing breaks out into deep, harmonic tribal trance. There are so many cool influences on this track.
04. Tentura - Discover has a strong, driving beat a la Asura's previous work around catchy melody/sound work. I really like this number it's good and/or great.
05. Shakri - Aurora Borealis is simpler than previous numbers, includes a nice, female-esque albeit reoccurring rhythm and/or sound throughout. The song is more progressive. It's not the strongest track on the album, but pretty good nonetheless.
06. Chronos - Sacral Meeting [Rmx] is interesting, psychedelic, but seems like it's missing bass (oomph), creating technical production strength as surrounding tracks have. If someone told me that this song had skipped the mastering process, I'd believe them. It's still a cool track though.
07. Asura - Dust and Daffodils is contemplative, more peaceful, and harmonic than their more known space ambient-influenced trance. The production is much better here than on the previous number, though the direction is more nice sounding and relatively catchy than super or infectious to my ears. This is easily one of the better number's here.
08. Aes Dana - Air Conditioning is a foggy ride to nowhere interesting. It's a less catchy segment on an otherwise good compilation. Still I can't say it's bad; subtle sound/atmospheric work around the beat gives it life, albeit less energy and addiction that I'd prefer by them. I feel like this song could have been so much better had it evolved in the last third to something really delicious; the final result comes off as forgettable; I'd even say lazy. That's just how I'd describe it.
09. RA - Cloudwalker is another well done track, one of the better tracks here as well. It just sounds a bit too similar at times to a song they released last year. So I tend to find it less refreshing, though it's good and/or great.
10. Solar Fields - Air Song [Remix] is a gentle breeze of delight. It has a really nice atmosphere and developing tune that hooks to some degree. The track's grown on me. That said, their most impressive work to me is on their 2009 album Movements to date, though this is a new song in that general, wonderful style. It's a bit more subtle, very well done.
For this first compilation in the elemental series (next is Water, now reviewed), and after hearing it numerous times, I would give Air a B, not a B+
In conclusion, the strengths outweigh the weaknesses when looking at the whole. Air starts out a bit bumpy, gets better after that, and has a handful of healthy highs. The compilation has room for improvement, and I expected more from the track list, but with exception to Aes Dana, I'm satisfied with the other well known artists. RA's is great, and while Asura's is less spicy than what I've heard from them before, the song is mature, thoughtful, and moving. I like it, and I look forward to Altar's next release, considering they have the artists here, the potential for something amazing. Overall, Air is a nice mid/down-tempo/chill compilation with some good and great tracks on it. No more. No less. Listen to the samples and decide for yourself.
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PequalNP - Riemann Hypothesis (track)
Track review
2009
This is what we are missing in Goa-Trance now days! A super Full On GOA song with dark synth work, addicitve sounds/melody work, high octane (determined) energy.
Great opening. RAW. EDGY. DARK. UNCOMPROMISING. THe UNORTHODOX sound of GOA. Creativity and catch-wise, I like it A LOT.
I have criticized many artists on these forms over the years, but I have nothing negative to say about this track other than please make more wonderful, individual (stand out) super GOA songs. And don't mind incorporating quick complimenting moments of fast, passing thunder storm/crash atmosphere too (not overdoing it). The part from around 4:28 to 5:10 hints at this atmosphere; it's very subtle but intriguing, interesting. The first third has a strong, driving movement that hooks; it continuously develops n a catchy, fire ball way. climax at 5:25 is excellent! The song evolves. I love how it begins good and gets better, more crazy, dark, infectious, and powerful as this shifting vehicle of chaos and energy moves forward.
Hell, this makes me wonder why Tandu never came back and released a second super album to Multi-Moods, one of the greatest electronica albums ever made; one of the greatest dark (and in general PSY and Goa) albums of all time. This song here reminds me concept wise, of why I love Tandu - Alien Pump. It has a searing climax that elevates the already great track before it.
This track receives one of the highest grades from me to a "single" (unreleased) track released by an artist in years. It's excellent. I love it from beginning to end. A raw, psychedelic, dark, and fierce head rush beast of bubbling energy and fire. And somehow managing to make it Full On friendly to some degree while letting it breath with GOA influence. I'm impressed.
A-
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The score was produced by Solar Fields??! This is some of the most beautiful, optimistic, and positive sounding music I have ever heard. It follows up some of his work around Movements really well.
Soundtrack clips via trailers for Mirror's Edge. In short, I love what I've heard so far. Solar Field's is so talented!(I adore the music in this first trailer, especially towards the end. I want this song.)
Samples / Orders
Amazon (full album via Amazon MP3)
http://www.amazon.com/s/qid=1244755575/ref...rack&page=1
Amazon.co.uk (full album)
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_ss_w_h_?u...amp;x=0&y=0
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Well-produced this long-awaited album from Vincent. Although still, probably the most inferior Aes Dana album.
Signs is my favourite track from the lot.
Good album, but not excellent.
We need a review up soon.
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Ahhh, it's out. For me, Aes Dana works best (with few exceptions, such as Lysistrata which is one of my track faves by them) when they make powerful, moody, and emotive/ethereal scores with intriguing introductions and drums, beats, and strong atmosphere. Not dance beats per say.
I'm not a fan of the beat/atmosphere without feeling. Btw their track on V/A - Air was forgettable, though I enjoyed other tracks on that compilation, surprisingly by various other artists more. In short, I hope this album or the next one (if this didn't do it) has a handful of super songs, infectious tracks that get stuck in your head for days as 2009's Solar Field's - Movements achieved.
Btw I don't like to comment much on samples (I'll probably buy this eventually as I own his previous two albums), but based on the samples I've heard so far, I'm not impressed. The album sounds nice, pretty good but nothing great. I hope I'm wrong because I like Aes Dana.
Aes Dana - Leylines (Longer Samples)
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7998
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It's too early to judge then. We'll know soon enough, though I said this before hearing the third Pleiadian album and what a bomb (POS, disappointment) that was. Regardless, AP will always have a place in my heart. I absolutely love their first several albums all the way up and through Another World, but that's where it ends for me. These guys could produce something infectious and refreshing if they want to; then they'd do it.
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And I promise, everyone will be surprised with this album... not like their earlier albums, but pure goa trance
Good. Because they do great Goa-Trance.
I think key changes often make the music corny or nitzo. Look how many full on releases do it currently, and check how it sounds.
I agree to an extent (it's a technique that has become exploited to some degree), though I feel that Filteria is an example of an artist who knows how to utilize key changes in a way that enhance the album. He implements them well, never overdoing and/or killing the track.
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Great album. One of my favorite dark psytrance albums of all time. I find the album cover quite appropriate too, especially when hearing the album. Btw many of these comments could theoretically be in the review thread for this album.
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This compilation actually sounds pretty cool (as does V/A - People Walk Funny). Too bad it's not on saikosounds though. I'd love to hear the longer samples before potentially ordering a copy. At least it's on Psyshop, but the samples there are shorter than the ones on Moonquest's myspace page.
Is it possible to make Moonquest's samples longer? By around 2-4 minutes please? On another note, it's nice to see Artifacat303 back to less AP-generic styled tracks. IMO Artifact303 should produce a wonderful, edgy, and refreshing (delicious) Goa-Trance album and have Suntrip release it. That would guarantee them their Goa/Psy-Trance audience.
Samples
http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/mon/mon1cd901.html
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I like The Eye Of God, A LOT, from Protexologia Volume I.
Zen is excellent too, by Protexologia (earlier Goa work). That song gets me visualizing, feeling, sensing. It's emotive, gripping, evolving, and deepening.
I'd love more aggressive, penetrate the senses fantasy/story-telling and twisting Goa-Trance like that from this artist, but for our time now. Maybe a kickass (new) fireball Protexologia album? Something to consider? Or at least a new Protexologia super song for a potential compilation via Suntrip or whatever?
Some of these tracks are really fun to listen to. Some I enjoy and find more artistic, catchy, and innovative than some of Afgin's most recent work too.
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It's nice to see other people agree that Rise Up to the Sun is a great track.
Lured by the Nymphs, Born Underwater, and Mermaid's Twin Sister are magical. Poseidon Lullaby is great too, very uplifting without being cheesy. Atlantis, Aquarius, and Mind Blowing are strong as well. Blue Planet is very well done for a closing track. I love the beginning minute and often return to hear it again along with the entire album straight through.
The only track I'm not a big fan of is The Pleiades, though it has some good elements. It feels less refined at times, less satisfying and well produced than the others. I'd say with The Pleiades, that the whole doesn't equal the sum of its parts, so to speak. Fortunately the song isn't bad; some of it's quite good, but it could have been better.
When I first heard Merr0w's track on the Twist Dreams compilation around 2005 I did not like it, and found it the weakest on the compilation! Yet this release is a big improvement. The track variety is healthy too. Each song has identity, character well developed, and doesn't similar to the one before and/or after it. The album has intensity too not often expressed in Goa now days. Filteria is one of the only new school artists that has edge (intensity), followed by RA (and with few exceptions, some other artists/tracks).
I can't believe Suntrip Records has released 15 albums since 2004, and Afgin just came out! My review is up for that now.
Good job Merr0w! Take your time to make an even stronger second one when you're ready.
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4. Dark Magus is awesome!!!
It's filled with edge and daring synth work rhythms. I love it. I love virtually every track on this album. I think it's because of the emotive edge coupled with the super songs back-to-back here. The only track I'm not in love with is Snarling Black Mabel, though it's a strong track ahead of its time. I enjoy listening to it with the rest of the album straight through.
This is the one of the most infectious and driving Goa tracks ever produced. It's an evolving, psychedelic demon dipped in acid with a focused direction and energy whereas previous songs were less-linear in structure and design. I love every track on this album. For our time now, this album is incredible sounding. Whenever I say 1995 to those who hadn't heard it before, their eyes go wide, often followed by a WOW. Furthermore, the emotive elements on this album make it overall better IMO than The Lone Deranger, which is more or less superb.
I really hope the third Hallucinogen album is wonderful for our time now. Twisted is magical, and arguably the greatest electronica album ever produced. Every time I hear this album it is a totally different experience!
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I don't know whether to be excited or confused, so far the latter. Wasn't this album finished years ago, or didn't AP have an album titled Open Society back around 2004-2006? I remember hearing about a new Full On album by AP after AMEN; I even posted a thread years back here (and e-mailed them on their site) but no news returned.
Does anyone know if this album has been collecting dust for several years or if this is different from the Open Society album talked about back here on these boards back around 2005?
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Afgin - Astral Experience
Suntrip Records
2009
Track list
1. Astral Experience ... 11:10
2. Old Is Gold (part 2) ... 8:07
3. Journey Through acid ... 9:23
4. Dreams In Motion ... 8:37
5. Emotions ... 8:47
6. Heaven's Tears ...10:02
7. Northern Exposure ... 10:39
8. Aden Prayers ... 6:55
Astral Experience is Israel artist/producer Elad Afgin's official debut album. His style is generally uplifting, morning/sunrise influenced Goa-Trance. Afgin's style appears inspired and at times influenced by California Sunshine, Astral Projection to some degree, though generally less aggressive than the latter. He's released numerous tracks on various compilations, and a debut album that was released over the internet years before this release. The track that caught my attention the most however was From the Heart, released on the Suntrip's kickass Opus Iridium (double album) compilation in 2008. So can Afgin release a desirable enough album after heated Psychedelic Goa-Trance competition from Merr0W - Born Underwater and Filteria - Daze Of Our Lives? A full review ensues.
1. Astral Experience begins with a relaxing wave of ambient, highlighting the first chapter of a huge journey in the form of psychedelic morning Goa-Trance. The opening segment is great. It doesn't rush the beat around 1:07. The artist soon releases a tasty melody around 1:35. Additional melody work boost the growing infection around 2:01. A beautiful backdrop flows with the leads coupled with psychedelic sounds, key changes enhance the rhythm, and this is just the first half of the second minute! Various layers are removed for an interlude that brings the energy down. The vehicle appears to be preparing to retire. Suddenly, a strong line of acid breaks out at 4:16, arresting the senses while summoning the angel back to form. This is one of the coolest, most unpredictable aspects I've heard by Afgin yet. He often specializes in warm harmonies, and it's nice to see him break out to some degree. Nonetheless, more zesty elements like the part around 4:16 would have been fantastic. Why don't we have more aggressive, dynamic parts like that here? That said, there's many elements of attraction working together here. Great track. B+
2. Old Is Gold (part 2) is an older influenced uptempo track. It's more aggressive than the opening. It has a strong core foundation rhythm, a la Another World (by AP) (self titled track) and 2008's driving Octagon track via the critically acclaimed RA - 9th album. The under rhythm is supportive and catchy, yet grows tired as it continues. Nonetheless, the eastern melodies work well around it. An interlude breaks up the driving rhythm; alterations enhance melodies, becoming juicier. The song takes off after a second interlude, and appears overall to be paying homage to old school Goa-Trance. I prefer the previous track's more refreshing approach, though this song is like a tribute to the golden days to some degree. The under movement works well with the melodies; the latter bubbles up and dances around the beat and bass line with excitable energy. Yet the song feels old school without the magic and/or infection; the song wears its sounds out as it continues; the effect is something less desirable, no matter how paying homage or influenced by the golden years of Goa it is. The overall delivery is fairly good I suppose albeit (been there, done that) yesteryear. B-
3. Journey Through Acid is yet another aggressive, uptempo number. It's more dynamic than the previous track too. The song takes off at 1:05; the melodies reach for higher ground as the the layers fuse, the energy builds. The first third layers the driving pattern. It's good. As the song progresses, moments of beauty arrive and spread, infecting the second and third act. Two interludes surround a core rhythm, different though reminiscent in concept to the previous track. Birth to an interlude begins around 4:11, surrendering the spirit above the clouds. The interlude is creative, floating, and lasting nearly two minutes! The music returns with key changes, melody/sound evolutions. One is around 7:05, a sound that's lifted to higher ground before descending towards the oceanic rhythm. The song could have utilized a more prominent melody lead earlier on, but the part from 6:11 to 7:03 does the trick; surrounding support is very well done and attractive throughout. Great track. B+
4. Dreams In Motion begins more psychedelic since aspects in the opening track. The song has builds nicely, picks up in its second minute. A repeating, altered Goa melody dances around the relatively climactic melody lead. Gradually, an intricate sound fusion is formed within the first third followed by a dreamy melody lead that takes notice around 3:12. This sound is fixing yet intangible, with elements of beauty. The song does get a little repetitive in the middle though, unfortunately. The energy pulls back for a short interlude and abstract voice sample, and seems less gripping as the music re-enters the realm from 6:44 on. I was expecting more, musically, in the last third. The song is an uplifting sound, but lacks imagination, taking risks, and being unpredictable considering the track title. C+
5. Emotions is the first track (for me) that seems to highlight emotive Goa over high energy. The introduction is interesting, involving Goa influenced chill work, very pleasing. Ambient notes are present, initially as if to convey a growing realization to the listener relative to a voice sample. Quicker, little melodies pick up with the flow. Key changes accentuate the kinesthetic communication. The emotive trance layers melt into a swimming interlude around 3:57. The effect is peaceful, bringing the energy down into dreamy, atmospheric cloud floating. Soon buildup returns the beat, and the song continues, though similar in sound as before. A second interlude appears more effective both in what follows, and its evolved features, including a voice sample. Followed up melodies are better than before, bringing energy and animation into a fairly conspicuous direction. Whereas the song could have ended short, the artist gives it a healthy extension. It's nice. I like this song less than some of the others in the melody department, but its emotive storytelling, dancing Goa elements, and final third is solid. Good track. B
6. Heaven's Tears starts on the coastal beaches and takes off soon after the first minute. The song has a morning albeit modern day, Astral Projection influenced sound. The approach isn't intense and compliments the traveling melody leads that in return give life to the warm ocean/wind atmosphere, presence. An interlude runs from around 4:21 to 5:14; it's richly produced with substance, sound art. They're more than just breaks or moments of wind drifting space before the next melody lead, and in that sense they're often great, enjoyable. The overall song is really nice sounding. As it progresses, its direction becomes fairly predictable but that doesn't destroy its appeal. Great track. B+
7. Northern Exposure begins with several notes of ambient, soon coupled with layers of emotion, carrying the seventh chapter of the story. Melodies have room to breath. They're gradually added into the mix; the effect is like a fine broth being delicately arranged by an articulative chef. The first several minutes show case harmonious development. An interlude around 4:00 opens the path to an elegant, opening moment around 4:38. The delectable sound fusion grows, carrying an ocean of colors past the five-minute mark. Afgin has a strong melody lead here. An awesome, wind blowing as if at the top of the world interlude takes place from around 7:10 to 8:26. It's magical, euphoric, floating. The artist avoids mainstream formula for wonderful, soulful storytelling and listening pleasure, experience. The music returns at 8:27, a healthy boost that carries the final two minutes across the skies. The ambient at times echoes From the Heart. The previous track felt more involved, but this is well done. B
8. Aden Prayers is a Goa/Psy and ethnic influenced downtempo track filled with strong melodies, atmosphere, sound, and euphoria. I never feel lost for a moment when listening to this; it's like a developed spirit who has moved beyond body/mind consciousness, and is free to experience the celestial realms in peace. An interlude simply permeates the already knowing number, that we are simply forms of experience, consciousness. The song is like letting go in a blissful stream of dreams and joy. This is a very passionate and uplifting piece with a bright downtempo/Sunrise high from around 4:30 to 5:00. I wish there were more chilled songs on the album like this one. It gives the album an all too refreshing feel at the very end. Beautiful track! A-
In conclusion, Afgin's Astral Experience is an morning-influenced Psy/Goa-Trance album. Those into Afgin's style" the more heartfelt, uplifting side of Goa will likely enjoy this album. While not every track is what I consider super or even great, the genre has been lacking warm releases these past few years. Elad's style was never to overload or fire ball the listener's senses. His music is generally more emotive, lively. Unlike Astral Projection and California Sunshine who have also made many euphoric, warm tracks, this release could have been less linear, interesting, and even included a mid-tempo track or two. There is a loving energy to Afgin's music that differentiates him from many pioneers in the electronic field today. I hear it here unfortunately on fewer tracks, such as in Heaven's Tears and the last one. Afgin's music is typically more peaceful, but it could be more dynamic, playful, and fun. Furthermore, the album has a same-sounding feel to many of the sounds, tracks. One could argue the same thing about Filteria's debut, to be fair. There are some great tracks here nonetheless. The opening is vibrant, arresting, and terrific, with a super part around 4:20 that shows a more psychedelic/exciting side of Afgin seldom present throughout the rest of the album. The artist missed the opportunity, I feel, to have more of a variety, and super songs (such as in the middle as some of his inspirations have done). However, the last number shows that Afgin can create a chill track better than many downtempo/Psy artists today. It would be cool if in the future, more zesty, unpredictable, and adventurous work had stronger presence in the album. Some of his work is so beautiful; I hope his future works seem less intended for the dance floor, and more for the heart and soul as his intent has seemed to be in the past. Listeners looking for a warm and positive/Sunrise influenced Goa album will find a passionately produced one with Astral Experience. Just don't expect to be blown away.
Favorite tracks: 1, 3, 6, 7, 8.
B
Samples / Order
http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/sut/sut1cd015.html
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7962
http://www.suntriprecords.com/product/item/SUNCD15/
http://www.goastore.ch/product_info.php?products_id=3130
http://www.goastore.ch/product_info.php?products_id=3130 -
V/A - AIR
Altar Records
2009
Track list
01. Zymosis - Zeta Bieng [Flute Mix]
02. Aquascape & Skydan - Voice Of The Universe
03. Dj Zen & Jace - Speak Your Mind [Open Air Mix]
04. Tentura - Discover
05. Shakri - Aurora Borealis
06. Chronos - Sacral Meeting [Rmx]
07. Asura - Dust and Daffodils
08. Aes Dana - Air Conditionning
09. RA - Cloudwalker
10. Solar Fields - Air Song [Remix]
Air is the first major release in the "Elemental Series" by Altar Records. The compilation is down and mid-tempo, and includes new tracks by artists: Aes Dana, Asura, RA, and Solar Fields.
01. Zymosis - Zeta Bieng [Flute Mix] begins with a gentle, female voice sample. It starts interesting; a drifting ambient score builds around peaceful sound scapes. A flute accentuates layers of melodic movements before before the beat kicks in. However the song doesn't seem to have a main focus or hook, though the atmosphere and worldly influence is nice, present throughout. The beat soon picks up, but the song appears more dependent on its layers than creating a captivating direction and delivery with them. An exploring interlude takes place from around 4:09 to 4:30, and it is during this section that I'm intrigued for the first time since the beginning. The music returns around 4:40 with the accommodation of an echoed melody. It's catchy, but disappears all too soon, leaving the last two minutes to rely on its surrounding sounds of support. Overall this is a decent opening track that could have been great. C+
02. Aquascape & Skydan - Voice Of The Universe is beautiful. Wow. This is up there with some of the most gorgeous downtempo work I've heard so far all year. The song is capitalizes on the celestial, spiritual growth, as reflected and experienced by the heart; here is a song that really evokes the senses. The first minute passionately builds, flowing. Soon arrives a wonderful melody lead, carrying this wonderful creature as it becomes more opening. A refreshing, weightless interlude takes place from around 3:00 to 3:40, where the song collects itself for the final act. This is one of best down/mid-tempo songs I have ever heard. It's gorgeous, opening, and beautiful. Wonderful track. A
03. Dj Zen & Jace - Speak Your Mind [Open Air Mix] follows up from the previous track with a stronger beat. After an intriguing, extended intro, the beat appears. Slowly the song awakens like newly born energy coming to its senses. The vehicle picks up, lifting off around 3:54 to a seasonal blend of percussion, movement, mid-tempo, atmosphere, crisp melody work, and ethereal female hymns, quite catchy. I think it sounds great, providing a second layer of emotion. An involved interlude arrives around 5:15, and the music returns around 4:45 as more edgy and aggressive than previously. A tasty melody soon emerges; tribal influences compliment the mid-tempo rhythm. The female hymns return in the final third which is nice. While the track seems stuffed with sounds and ideas at times, its intricacy actually works to its favor. The song has a varied, energetic, and artistically layered sound that permeates the senses. It's simply less easy to digest due to involving so much, but this involvement adds replay value, lasting appeal. I like it. B+
04. Tentura - Discover is far less intricate, layered, and packed with various ideas than the previous number. In being less loaded, Discover has a clearer feel, and a near Goa/Psy influenced hook that stands out in its first minute. A strong melody coupled with ambient notes appear around 3:00. The beat emphasis is great too; the song moves forward collecting new paragraphs of sounds, never abandoning its strong foundation. A clever albeit brief ring tone a la bell enhances the beat. This is a very well composed track that follows one direction throughout with solid results. It's both lighter on the senses and more simple than previous numbers, less ambitious but very well done. Good, if not great track. B+
05. Shakri - Aurora Borealis continues the previous track's concept in the sense it follows one solid direction and builds on it. What appears to be a female (and quite catchy the way it's utilized) hymn compliments the beat. A nice observation is how the beat picks up; it becomes fast and more supported past the two minute mark, adding strength to an already developing body. A chilled, atmospheric interlude takes place from 2:55 to 3:14, introducing a peace instrument and numerous other sound. Key changes also seem to be present. The melody work is really nice too. An even catchier element takes place around 4:50; the song becomes more euphoric and uplifting. A simple albeit pretty good track. B
06. Chronos - Sacral Meeting [Rmx] is interesting. More industrial, psy, and metallic/futuristic sounds are born out of this happening meeting. More colors and sounds express as moments, particles rather than formulated and developing rhythms. The song continuously collects, releases sounds. It's interesting to see the album attain unpredictable, less linear tracks, as the previous two built strength on a relatively predictable path. I can't sense where the song's taking me here. Its ability to regroup, recoup, and redesign itself as it progresses is impressive. Lots of alterations seem to take place that enhance the track, but my favorite parts involve the little lifts, such as the one around 3:17. The song has a handful of these "lifts" that provide bursts of energy around the psychedelic art. Unfortunately the track seems to have the least mastered, finalized process, production wise. I can't feel bass; the song seems thinned out to some degree, soundwise. Overall, this is an interesting, psychedelic track. B+
07. Asura - Dust and Daffodils is the first artist on the compilation that more familiar with. What Asura creates here is fairly different in style from their previous work; a more soothing ambient-influenced trance piece. The beat appears to be secondary, though paramount as foundation to the harmonious, moving walls of melodies. From its first-melody wave around 2:05, the song becomes more musical and emotive as it moves forward. Listen to the gripping part before the track evolves around 3:55. Their is a unique moment that lasts around :45 seconds. This doorway opens for new sounds, smart layering like an enlightened orchestra. Strings, pads, ambient, and various tunes play to the simple albeit effective beat. This is mainly a tune driven track filled love and light. It sounds so simple initially, yet its melodies are quite effective, warm, and memorable. Strong track. B+
08. Aes Dana - Air Conditionning is almost a little too subtle to me. Some listeners who enjoyed Aes Dana's more sutble work before their stand out melody work on Lysistrata via Opus Iridium compilation may enjoy this one. It has a nice background sound to it. I just don't find it does anything interesting all too much as it progresses. Progressive ambient-influenced mid-tempo is more like it. Without a clear hook, I'm not arrested, though the song is filled with a gentle, dreamy atmosphere and tone from beginning to end. A creative female voice alteration moves in the background to peaceful, open space. I think this is a pretty good track; it's just more atmosphere driven around a beat than anything, so I don't remember the track very well once it ends. Overall I expect more from Aes Dana. B-
09. RA - Cloudwalker begins with strong albeit gentle waves of ambient, in tune with a growing, psychedelic chemisty until the first melody lead takes place around 1:13. The song has a very nice sound to it, continuously building. Around 1:50 establishes more energy, melodies, and supporting sounds in edition to the attractive lead from 1:13. More development arrives at 2:28. The song is like a beautiful piece of sculpture that continues to evolve and know itself. The song has strong eastern melodies and flows very well. Those who enjoyed RA's mid-tempo work on 2008's 9th album will notice inspirations right away. Included is a souring sound in its final third, evoking more than a passionate nod to RA's Gateway Eight track on 2008's Sundrops compilation. The song is filled with passion and emotion, though less groundbreaking than their work on 9th. Great song. A-
10. Solar Fields - Air Song [Remix] has an answer to some degree to those who liked and/or loved their amazing 2009 release of Movements. I wouldn't place it in the top three of Movements, but Air Song [Remix] comes very close to the near perfection of style that I loved on Movements. It's great, and ends one of the better compilation of 2009 with strength. A-
In conclusion, this is an interesting compilation. I really miss mid and downtempo releases, and this is a quality one. While my least favorite track is that by Aes Dana, I'm surprised with how solid some other tracks are, save for the opening which is lackluster compared to numerous others. I hadn't heard of Aquascape & Skydan before, yet their Voice Of The Universe number is awesome, and that song appears before the more known line up. It's also nice to see Solar Fields following up their style from 2009's Movements album, which is superb. Air is one of the better compilations of the year. Update: Water and Fire are now released (2009) and both are better IMO.
Favorite tracks 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10
B
Samples
http://altar.fonderieart.com/air.html
Order
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Celtic Cross - Hicksville (Remastered & Remixed)
(Liquid Sound Design)
2009
1 - Mundis Imaginalis (Tribal Dawn Mix) (10:40)
2 - Khatmandu (Iona On The Ganges Mix) (7:49)
3 - Jade Gates (Beauty Knows No Pain Mix) (11:51)
4 - Mundis Imaginalis (Flowercolouredpowerchild Mix) (7:02)
5 - Schwazz (Until Nothing Can Reach Us Mix) (7:57)
6 - Straight For The Jiggular (Crystal Journey Mix) (5:34)
7 - Mundis Imaginalis (The Acoustic Mix) (7:34)
8 - Khatmandu (Short Cut Mix) (6:46)
9 - Digajigg (Babba G Mix) (7:43)
I'm surprised they remixed Mundis Imaginalis three times here. Once we add the two Khatmandu remixes, that's more than half the album sharing two main tunes. Things sound similar. Fortunately they left out a track or two, possibly three from the original that were lackluster and not really worth putting EXCEPT Hicksville was worth it. But then I realized that Hicksville never seemed like it could use remixing. It was wonderful the way it was. Why mess with it? The artists remixed and remastered the other best tracks. I can understand some listeners being disappointed since the artists acknowledged their best Celtic Cross work (to my knowledge) minus Hicksville. Nice colorful cover btw, though they photo-shopped a piece art or crap (you decide) and made it look cool. Lovely.
THE GOOD
The mastering. The music sounds so much more clear, broadened, and enhanced in comparison to the original. There are several strong remixes here. I prefer Digajigg (Babba G Mix) here over the original version. I think it's great. Fans of the original will appreciate this release. I'm sure it will attract new listeners too. Musically, it's well produced. Simon Postford and company added a lot, while keeping in tune with what made the original the sleeper cult hit that it became to some degree.
THE NOT SO GOOD
Three remixes of one track takes up one-third the album and gives it a samey feel to some degree THROUGHOUT. I got TIRED fast of listening to Mundis Imaginalis due to it appearing three times. Its main "pleasant" tune may exhaust listeners by the time the album's finished. Also, Mundis Imaginalis (The Acoustic Mix) is little more than an ongoing loop of the main tune. There are some nice sounds around it but it's TOO REPETITIVE. I find it the weakest, most unnecessary one here actually, acoustic or not. Few remixes are just not THAT good, and both Khatmandu remixes appear to have little to distinguish the two. I feel like I'm hearing the same song twice on the same album, regardless of the differences.
In conclusion, if one can look past the shortcomings, he or she is in for some great music. Celtic Cross - Hicksville (Remixed) is definitely one of the better releases of 2009. Due to one remix too many though, repetition, I was disappointed to some degree. Moreover, this is not better than Solar Fields - Movements. My favorite track is actually the last due to the strong and danceable Goa influenced sound and vibe. I don't mind the celtic tune. I love the skipping female vocal and various other voice and sound work. The song's fun and energetic; just like the original, it seems like it could have been off a completely different Psy album, but I like it (especially after all of those same sounding tunes with relatively different backgrounds appearing before it). Overall this is a good release with a handful of great tracks or vice-versa. It's just nothing spectacular unless I suppose you are a hardcore fan and absolutely love this thing, which due to its weaknesses, I'm more a fan of the mastering and a track or two here and there more than the overall full package, or compilation of remixes.
Favorite tracks 1, 2, 6, 8, 9
B
Samples
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7838
http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/dra/dra1cd089.html -
Psychoz - 2012 No Return album (2009).
Samples
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7742
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EARTH CROSSING
Dave should make a follow up to Earth Crossing masterpiece for Suntrip Records to release.
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What an ugly cover. Oh my God they could have at least picked a beautiful girl. Having a potential guy gives it an awkward feel. I thought oh wow, a pretty mermaid until I looked closer. But moving on.
Sounds like Enigma (new age) meets trance, the trance version of Enigma. Not a terrible idea. I miss Mystica's Psychedelic Goa-Trance work. Their Age Of Innocence album is wonderful.
At least this is upbeat, uplifting, and tries something different, albeit formulaic. I'll pass. For now. Maybe if they're smart enough to put it on MP3 Amazon I'll get it (a decent sounding album for less and) without the crappy cover. Because I generally enjoy uplifting music.
Samples
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7766
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This is to date, the most solid dark Psytrance compilation I have heard. I am hearing it right now as I write this. It's great. Sure I'd love to hear a better one. If anyone knows of something unquestionably stronger (compilation-wise) I'd love to hear it.
Anyway, I thought they were making a sequel. ?
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DERANGO - TUMULT
INPSYDE MEDIA
2005
Track list:
01. 08’40” Deranged
02. 07’50” Confusion Is Next
03. 08’10” Made Out Of Vapour
04. 07’43” Masterdamnit
05. 10’51” All Channels Open
06. 09’58” The Poisonous Square
07. 06’37” Lost Theory
08. 07’54” Fnatt
09. 08’38” We Are All Mad Here (Rmx)
Tumult is one of the most interesting and talked about Psytrance releases. Previously I had been focusing on what I felt was missing, not so much on the accomplishments here, what Derango pulled off extremely well. I still feel that if they put half as much time and work into aggressive, strong and catchy melody leads, that this would be one of the most amazing and "top favorite" albums ever produced (to me and various others). But what the artists did here is no doubt technically skilled, ambitious, and innovative. It's definitely one of the most psychedelic album's I've ever heard. So psychedelic actually that it appears to be a technical achievement in being psychedelic over all else. Add the plethora of altered Psy sounds to the atmosphere and sound variety in each track. This is an impressive album. I suppose due to the heavy focus on twisted psy effects, due to the album having a ton of arguably melodic moments projected by "altered sounds" at times that appear to be creating a paragraph of melodies (more like a twisted staircase of sounds), I found myself disappointed years back. I was expecting something more along the lines of Hallucinogen and/or Menis in the sense that strong psychedelic work would compliment melody leads/paragraphs around crazy sound designs. As with Penta's Horn Please album, sound paragraphs filled with sounds and various melodic elements, gritty textures and atmosphere come and go. Though very few tracks have moments where my mind goes back and plays them; in other words, tunes aren't stuck in my head for days. naturally, it would be amazing if what the general person considers infectious melody rhythms was invested in a follow up also loaded with going nuts in the sound department as this one does (innovations). Tumult is an overload in sound production and psychedelics. It's an example of a definitive "Psychedelic Trance" album whether one likes it or not.
Parts that seem to tell a story (more clearly to me, parts that evoke feelings, provoke thoughts that I enjoy) are in the opening (from roughly 1:30 to 2:15). Also in track 3, 4, 6, one or two others, and especially the very end of the final track -- listen to how effective that part is). More of these two elements is what I miss here: emotion (sadness, anger to the wild tone, darkness), and development of what the general person considers melodies. I have a song by Derango called Time Trap from the ultra-dark/Evil There Is No Tomorrow compilation (my review in the 2004 section). Just listen to the melody-esque sound work in Derango's Time Trap from 2:18 to 2:42. It played notes are somewhat consistent and gripping for a short time, before the song goes back to crazy/insane mixing psychedelics around the beat and bass line. So it's these gothic tunes in a sense that I (and various others) find invigorating at times. They create a hook amongst the ceaseless craziness that can be ridiculously infectious and driving (and more dance friendly IMO) to the awesome work around it. The also create a focus however and maybe Derango wanted the listener to focus on the world of sounds created more than melody leads which often attract the spot light from surrounding work. However when an album capitalizes on both, believe me, it's beyond amazing. As with Hallucinogen - Twisted, we hear all of it, and become more present with all the other work the more we hear/explore the album.
01. Deranged is an intriguing chapter, in part because this is here the listener will first hear the novel, overloaded and bubbling/intricate and heavily psychedelic style of Derango on Tumult. Moving paragraph walls of dripping acid and twisted/distorted melodic and/or sound effects mix over moving shapes, smaller paragraphs and sentences of vivid texture and deliciously psychotic imagery. There is something chilling, unfriendy but ultimately comfortable and gripping about this opening track. One of my favorite part is from 1:30 to 2:15 but I have several. Overall this is a track that seems to create tone and evoke feelings, albeit deranged ones at times, and I like that. I think some people haven't given this song enough credit because it's less intense. Personally I find it one of the best, most satisfying here. It's simply less energetic; there's something surreal about its less fast and zippy structure. Excellent track. A-
02. Confusion Is Next, an uncompromising, driving, and relentless art of Psytrance on photo-tropics and various other stimulants. The dark and driving beat is great, but the rhythms here, cutting through bleek and moving atmosphere filled with squeaky insects and tasty fire flies is strong. The tempo change up around halfway through is well articulated too, as the character becomes more confused, self-haunted, disturbed as the song continues. Such behavior appears relevant around the 6:00 mark where, be it darkly humorous or not, it appears like some form self-crisis, psychosis (disorder) is taking place. I really like this one, though it took years for me to "get" into. Excellent work. A-
03. Made Out Of Vapour takes off out the gate early on. Coupled with buzzing, highway driving sound effects, the comprised and developing Psy work continuously grows, mutates, and spreads like an infection. Distorted cords become sounds taking us deeper down the dangerous path filled wit obstacles. Around 3:00 to 3:25 is GREAT, and a perfect example of what I consider distorted MELODIES (to some degree) in dark Psytrance. That is what I've been trying to communicate for years (though I stopped, gave up two years ago until now) in this thread. It's the hook that I love around the chaos, the lead (however crazy it is) that gives me some sense of YES (!), this excites adrenaline. The song however quickly returns to its world filled with psychedelic creates, without a running/clorful lion or tiger in sight. After going through some interesting sound-ladden passages, two segments take place that arrest my attention. One is from 4:17 to 4:45 (sounds like a haunted car swerving from lane to lane down a dark highway), chilling stuff. The second follows closely behind, from 4:50 to 6:14, a distorted, various-note played tune of sorts. Fortunately, a third (and one of the best) arrives from around 7:00 to 7:50. Now all three of these parts can be argued at being melodies, but they create stand out sound work that draws me deeper into Derango's deep forest of darkness, mystery and energy. These segments evoke feeling, at least to me. They're unique and catchy, especially around all of the crazy head scattered noise and buzzing bumble bees. A-
04. Masterdamnit is an even rougher song, loaded with psychedelics. The first tunes (to any sense) I notice are in the first minute, and around 2:40. These parts a short, flying by like moving insects as the vehicle goes through heavy, constantly changing chaos and particles. The crunchy foundation texture is strong, albeit repetitive, it works in a BotFB type way, creating a hypnotic vibe with the rest of the broth. The tempo change sup around 4:40, the foundation or floor drops out to compensate for an entirely new section of the same evolving maze or world. The following section, however filled with alien backdrops and atmosphere sounds almost crazy just for the sake of being crazy at times. Without a groove or some form of tune, I am lost in a jungle filled with interesting sounds but for me, uncertainty. It's all interesting but the crunchy foundation and distorted tune work earlier on I find far more gripping in this song. The skipping scream followed by the record sound towards the end though it good, but these small details don't replace the sense of being lost in a song that maybe intended never to be found or rather made sense of. Great "psychedelic" work, but this is one of my least favorites here. B+
05. All Channels Open starts out more congruent than the previous number, with a bass line (or pads) pattern that breaks up as the song progresses. A growing sound that joins a tune of sorts around 4:00 -- oh wait it's gone. But something else, beginning around 4:08 sounds like a tripping melody, a lead to some degree. My attention is grabbed by this thing that soon vanishes into the industrial/metal and atmospheric underworld of clanks, screams, pops, bubbles, and ten-thousand-plus other locations in this abyss-of-craziness world. Back to building up the track we go, after a gothic (ghost chorus with hardly a chorus?), evocative interlude. The song rages on with buzzing sounds, but the beat and bass line change ups strengthen its feet were the previous song faltered IMO. The sounds remain crisp, fresh, and deadly straight into the final third. Overall this appears to be one of the more catchy "psychedelic-sound-wise" songs on the album. It gets pretty heavy and developed, stomping too in its final, layered third, creating a strange/climactic or higher energy feel. While this (these) aren't exactly my favorite style in Psytrance work, I can see why others would like/love it. Crazy, well done track. A-
06. The Poisonous Square is my favorite track on the album. It begins with an extremely catchy and curious voice sample, regarding an object being observed in a room, appearing like a perfect square that turns out to be something entirely different, something very bad. This introduction fronts (begins) the bubbly beginning of the next chapter, story that takes off around 2:30 into a blazing and super driving DISTORTED melody lead that I have accessed by memory sine this album released in 2005. I am grabbed, completely hooked by the 30 second sound lead from 2:30 to 2:55 in the song. It's awesome, to me at least an especially after hearing all else before it and anticipating a form of unexpected infection, a take off moment of flavor and surprise. Although that wild hook never returns, the song remains strong, fierce, and gripping from beginning to end. But that sound really elevated the energy and enhanced the track. Nonetheless, the second third of this song is fucking awesome: An high octane, delicious, and uncompromising ball of psychedelic and driving fire. Although this section ends at 6:35, it lasts minutes(!!!), then evolves; the song takes off again again, from 7:35 to 8:05. And then it returns again and gets even more crazy/psychedelic. Add in atmosphere and raging effects. WOW!!!! If Derango made more songs like these they would produce what I consider one of the most amazing albums of all time. I have been impressed by this song since 2005. It's gripping, intense, and catchy from beginning to end. SUPERB TRACK. A
07. Lost Theory is a step down from pervious numbers. It's still a good track, very psychedelic and a bit more random but with less (intensity, ferocity). The song seems to finally come together around 4:35, though by 4:00 we're back to Derango's vivid and sound-heavy atmosphere. The ideas have been done, and done better on previous tracks. Yet this comes up with a handful of its own psychedelic moments. I simply find its sound work and the overall song direction less gripping. Around the five-minute mark however, the last fourth of the 6:40 second song hits a nice, driving beat and rhythm. That is, before returning to its recycled or less refreshing self around 6:00. IMO this isn't bad but the weakest, arguably least powerful tracks on the album. It's pretty good I suppose (especially if you love the style here), nothing spectacular. B
08. Fnatt has more going on; it's more interesting (eventful) and stronger (sounds, change ups) than the previous number IMO. A part or two of the last third becomes even more distorted than previous acts. Rarely what I consider a melody or several note tune that leads I can hear. This is a solid, hard, and crunching number, though so far the album's greatest work (parts that impressed me most) have past. I generally don't care for this track, but I'm trying to look at it for what it is (compared to other songs on the same album). Cool track. B+
09. We Are All Mad Here (Rmx) -- get this, I find far more catchy and gripping than both numbers that came before it. This to me is a return to stronger melodic elements scattered throughout the hard, edgy and stomping psychedelic, and mad-running horse. An interlude takes place in the center that lasts longer than I can remember previous interludes lasted on the album. It's soon followed by stylish TRIBAL-SOUNDING drum work around the beat. It's a great moment, especially for outdoor forest parties. Wow, I wish there was more of this on the album. What continues is stomping; the tempo changes up around 6:10 around a strange voice sample. The tempo then changes again. I like this track because it appears less all-over-the-place in its story telling and direction. There is a strong, provocative (and evocative) part, the final minute of this song that clearly shows that Derango has far more skilled and creative than Tumult alone. The final minute here is a great part that, along with various other elements, could potentially contribute to an amazing, more varied, interesting, musical, and multi-dimensional masterpiece. Strong track. A-
In conclusion, each song in Tumult is loaded with so many sounds around the strong beat, bass line, pads, (and more); each song is so PSYCHEDELIC (over all else) that it's no wonder this album became so popular, such a cult hit. I often find myself returning each year, exploring it, journeying deeper into its intangible layers of raw sound designs. Tumult seems more or less different from how remember it: more evolved, bizarre, crazy, abstract; I become more conscious of more in and of it. This may be due,in part to the non-linear song directions as well as the abundance of mixing, sounds. The whole album is like one crazy "Psytrance" head trip down David Lynch's Lost Highway. It's a wild ride that never answers any questions, yet it's filled with so many crazy events and elements that it's hard not to notice and admire. In that sense, I admire and more or less (via the track) enjoy Tumult. It is not one of my all time favorites (not now anyway). But I can see what it is for many people. Without question; I've at least gotten that answer from hearing this.
I wonder if these artists are working on a new album. It's been years.
Favorite tracks 1, 2, 3, 5, 6(!!!), 9.
A-
Samples / order
Psyshop: http://tinyurl.com/c4yjd
Saiko: http://tinyurl.com/bf5e4
Top 10 Psytrance albums, of all time
in General Psytrance
Posted
Top 10 best Psytrance albums, part 100000000!!!
Relatively newer stuff, post 2002
Filteria - Daze Of Our Lives - A
RA - 9th - A-
Filteria - Sky Input - A-
Khetzal - Corolle - A-
Mindsphere - Inner Cyclone - A-
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1. Pleiadians - I.F.O. - A
2. Hallucinogen - Twisted - A
3. Astral Projection - TNT - A
4. Dimension 5 - Transdimensional (Re-Mastered) - A
5. Transwave - Backfire - A
6. Hallucinogen - The Lone Deranger - A
7. Cosmosis - Cosmology and Synergy - A / A-
8. Tandu - Multimoods - A-
9. Chi-A.D. - Earth Crossing A-
10. Miranda - Phenomena
More cult classics include
Astral Projection - Dancing Galaxy
Astral Projection - Another World
Astral Projection - The Astral Files
Battle of the Future Buddha's - Twin Sharkfins
Blue Planet Corporation - Blue Planet
California Sunshine - Nasha
Chi-A.D. - Anno Domini
Chi-A.D. - Infinitism
Crop Circles - Tetrahedron
Darshan - Awakening
Doof - Let's Turn On
Etnica - Alien Protein
Etnica - The Juggeling Alchemists Under The Blacklight
Green Nuns Of The Revolution - Rock Bitch Mafia
Hux Flux - Cryptic Crunch
Infected Mushroom (first three albums)
Juno Reactor - Beyond the Infinite
Jaia - Blue Energy
Koxbox - The Great Unknown
Koxbox - Forever After
Kox Box - Dragon Tales
MFG - New Kind Of World
MFG - Project Genesis
MFG - The Prophecy
Mystica - Age of Innocence
Pigs In Space - (self titled)
RA - To Sirius
Sandman - Witchcraft
Shakta - Silicon Trip
Space Cat - Beam Me Up
Total Eclipse - Delta Aquarids
Transwave - Phototropic
Transwave - Helium
Man With No Name - Earth Moving the Sun
Man With No Name - Moment Of Truth
Planet Ben - Trippy Future Garden
Xenomorph - Cassandra's Nightmare
X-Dream - Radio
X-Dream - We Created Our Own Happiness
X-Dream - Trip To Trancesylvania
UX - Ultimate Experience