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Jon Cocco
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All my friends like this album. The new style is awesome, providing some of the grooviest beats, sounds, and rhythms ever produced in PSY-influenced electronica. The album flows extremely well from beginning to end. This easily made my top 10 list in 2008.
I would love more super infectious songs like tracks 3, 7, and 8. There is a part in Electric Animals that is just evocative, filled with passion and emotion - it's amazing! But all of the songs are good. Electrypnose is a great artist and Funked Up is his most innovative and overall most catchy album IMO since Subliminal Melancholies.
Hope he produces a strong follow up in this style, basically Funked Up: Pt 2.
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Which artists and acts inspired you most?
Favorite Psytrance, downtempo, and Goa artists?
Was it at all possible in theory to join up with a more financially equipped label via Flights of Infinity to score a wider distribution online? (maybe you and Suntrip should communicate?
) Do you play gigs live?
And do you enjoy most about the music you make and the scene? What is the symbolism and/or story (if any) behind your albums?
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Great Driving Music indeed.
I almost think that Filteria - Sky Input was playing in the background when the Big Bang occurred and the universe was created...or God it doesn't matter.
Such Ambition, such overwhelming drive...in its intensity...overwhelming at times and full of life.
That's a good way of putting it.
This album still impresses me, to this day. I rarely listen to it straight through though. Several tracks at a time, maybe a break every four tracks. It's still one of my favorite albums ever produced in the electronica genre.
Filteria 3 release date: March (sometime) 2009.
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SOLAR FIELDS - MOVEMENTS
ULTIMAE RECORDS
2009
Track list:
1. Sol
2. Circles of Motion
3. Discovering stream
4. Sky Trees
5. The Stones are not too busy
6. Dust
7. Das Bungalow
8. Feelings (album edit)
9. Patterns
10. The Road to Nothingness
11. Breeze
Wow! It is about time we get something powerful and quite possibly bar raising in the ambient, downtempo genre(s). Solar Fields up'd the ante and quite a bit with Movements. What unfolds is an album that will likely be talked about for quite some time to come.
1. Sol is a slow and powerful, dreamlike-fantasy opening. The big opening sound around 0.29 is amazing, like a warm wave of euphoric energy splashing my consciousness. It's interesting to see Solar Fields implementing tasty psychedelic influence through sounds of crisp and crunchy wind/zip textures. The song is like a gorgeous adventure through light and space, as if legendary warriors have recently died and are crossing over into a Heaven gate. The song is very atmospheric, and in that sense visual; many listeners will likely form their own story. Whatever the vision or concept, the song has a western sort of influence beginning around halfway through. It never sounds cheesy. The overall song is dreamy and floating, ethereal. Trying to even classify or limit it to any specific environment would be taking away from the songs beauty as a whole. This is a superb opening and track. I am rarely this impressed. A
2. Circles of Motion is strong and mainly beat free ambient super number with few exceptions, the last third roughly beginning at 6:19 until near close. Not only are the layers high in count but flowing, elegant, and surreal. The sounds sooth the mind, nerves. The song begins with a beautiful dream of sound and gradually forms rhythms within supporting sounds, resulting in a swimming, hypnotic effect. As the song representing the dream fades away, the listener slowly awakens to consciousness, or rather another layer of the sub conscious mind. What's wonderful here is that the previous number set the bar pretty high. Often times when an opening number is as strong as Sol, I am disappointed with the following track. However Solar Field's have produced a completely distinct and wonderful follow up filled with heart. The final third is very important; it develops the ever-changing character, progressing the song out of any sense of repetition. There is also an epilogue that concludes this portion of life with peace. This is another beautiful track. A-
3. Discovering stream is an oceanic ambient wave moving through celestial space galaxies for the first three minutes. Soon accompanied by a mesmerizing beat and sound fusion. Guitar and/or violin and various other ethnic instrumentals arrive, increasing the atmospheric world of harmony, rhythm, and depth. A catchy and floating interlude arrives in the middle, the first of two. The song has one to two direction shifts that instigate a fluid evolution. The first is during the beat's welcome followed by the final third, the latter where the listener's senses are nearly overly loaded with a bursting, mesmerizing melody/sound fusion of transcending rhythm and joy. The overall song however, prior to these selected areas develops continuously. How it progresses is excellent. The interlude from 7:54 to 8:12 establish an mysterious sense of floating before a transcending leap to the stars around 8:58. There is an amazing build up from around 8:35 to 8:57. What takes place after this is hands down, one of the most wonderful parts in music that I have ever heard in my life. From 8:58 to 10:00 is a moment of magic so kinesthetic and uplifting, one must truly experience this evocative evolution for him or herself. The superb ending to this otherwise excellent number is like a gorgeous dragon transformed into a beautiful, spiritual and/or more aware, enlightened version of itself. This is a wonderful track with a stunning finish. A
4. Sky Trees has potential to be an album seller I imagine. I didn't perceive where it was going in its first two minutes. The song hums to unknown territory as a crisp droplet effect begins around 1:40. It isn't until the two minute mark that I begin hearing a wonderful tune surrounded in harmonious rhythm. This appears like it could be a influenced by a U2 song (See the people... *lyrics*) but without lyrics of course. Overall the number is filled with warmth and positivity throughout. I just can't help feeling that if another song/act didn't exist, neither would this potentially to some degree. Nonetheless, if I knew it was a clover and/or remix it would most certainly get a lower score. All theories aside, it's excellent. A-
5. The Stones are not too busy begins with a slow and gentle beat followed by an optimistic tune which develops into a world so to speak. Story-wise, I can't tell if a life has ended or some adventure has just begun. The music is stirring to the thinking mind however spiritual and pleasant; I feel determined and encouraged to accomplish something big. Yet at the same time I could enjoy this song sitting still, counting my breaths, just being. The beat picks up to a flute and the supportive layers around these elements elevate the song into greatness as a wonderful beat and tempo change shift the track into an even greater, delectable gear. This is an excellent approach in mixing, sound engineering. The song becomes more gripping as it progresses without climaxing or resorting to uptempo. The I.Q. raises, the mind becomes more intellectual and aware here as opposed to a track that bombards the senses with big special effects and sensation over substance. Yet the vehicle develops strong. I's carefully orchestrated; echoed effects are present around a far more involved and thoughtful creation. Areas where the beat picks up are worth noting, as well as a female, psychedelic sound that could be a subtle Goa and/or influenced tune. It's excellent, and arrests my attention. The sound grows wings, taking the journey even further in its final third with wonderful results. This is a track that gradually evolving to the point of nearly consistently topping itself from beginning to end! Wonderful work! A
6. Dust is a return to strong ambient, at least until around 2:05 where a slow ticking sound and beat emerges. The song is slow, oozing with emotion as it progresses into its second third. Past 3:30 however, the beat is removed where the song was more emotionally stirring. Ambient tones emerge and dissolve into a weightless, albeit mobile backdrop. The song's intriguing, however a bit dry in its final act and I'm not a big fan of the industrial, up-and-down wind sound that appears quite relevant here for some reason. This is a sound I'd imagine hearing more in a slow and melancholy, rare Nine Inch Nails ambient track like Warm Place rather than what I adore from Solar Fields. Nonetheless, the song is solid, though I find it the least arresting number here so far, past the middle third at least. The first two parts have a sad and hopeless and/or contemplative atmosphere that presents still life rather well, however sad in this approach. The song realistically adds emotional variety to the album by giving it a ray of sadness to an often bursting world of exploration, dreams come true and more. I would have enjoyed it more if the tone in its middle section lasted longer, as that's the best part and the conclusion here's a bit dry. Otherwise, this is an interesting, good, possibly great track. B+
7. Das Bungalow is another ambient influenced downtempo track. The beat and various other background elements are completely unique from previous tracks. The number takes off with an excellent downtempo, evolution at around 2:40. A short interlude is followed by a change up in beat, rhythm. It's great; the accentuating drum work crossing over into the 4th minute is strong. Solar Fields once again establishing a thickly warm and flowing rhythm; a melody lead comes into view from around 4:36 to 5:25. This part is wonderful, powerful and floating. The last 1:20 are pretty much an atmospheric interlude. It seems that the group cared to end each song not abrupt, but with a peaceful resolve. Such ideas are great for home, personal listening. It follows one building albeit one direction building path. I would sooner compare this to Solar Field's also beautiful Confusion Illusion Remix from Opus Iridium's downtempo side: CD2. This is another strong track, and arguably the most uplifting one here. A-
8. Feelings (album edit) is a contemplative and growing, emotive ambient influenced downtempo number. It's quite sad, though hopeful, musically floating and arresting. This is one of the more euphoric songs on the album. It flows one however strong direction, telling a story that could be of redemption, love, peace, understanding, and forgiveness. It's beautiful and quite moving, inspirational sounding from start to finish. This deserves to be as part of a score in a great film. It has a huge heart filled with warm loving energy, an appreciation for life and the beyond. A
9. Patterns is the shortest track here, at just under five minutes. It follows up the previous score nicely, adding a beat at around 2:40. This track could have easily been an evolution, continuation from the previous number, tweaked and separated to give the album an additional, solid number. Or not. It actually sounds quite different from the previous track and this would likely destroy the romantic sound prior due to its more aggressive to then soft approach. Patterns reminds me of Dust in the sense it comes down for landing just as soon as it gets going. I would have really liked if this song developed its initial two thirds more, once the beat got going, as opposed to shifting to ambient so soon, and ending soon after. Nonetheless, it's an interesting, catchy number. It just feels a bit squeezed, packed into this nearly 80 minute album; it's as if the artist didn't have enough room to lengthen it, thus it remained a summarized version of greatness, that could have been marvelous. A-
10. The Road to Nothingness is a wonderful return to epic and lush, ambient influenced downtempo trance. The speed is calm, filled with a gentle melody and beat. The sound drifts reflecting angel's wind and fantasy gates, a reflection of the atmospheric approach and soundscapes explored as more of the song opens up like a body filled with a life to explore. The track could provide an eerie backdrop, score to a serious Tim Burton film. Moreover, the number is relaxing; it has a really nice sound. The atmosphere and ambient pull my consciousness deep into this moving world of ghosts, traces of fading memories. Excellent track. A
11. Breeze sounds exactly that, a breeze, with an opening, streaming porthole of life pouring through it. A subtle tune drifts in the background until stepping into the light at around 2:18, a moment of beauty. Another positive sound brews beneath the surface as if the sun is is about to shine through the cloudy sky. At around 4:26 the speed picks up; the beat takes off, slowly. The sound becomes more present, satisfying. Soon after, at around 5:16 an even stronger musical element arrives, furthering the beauty, lifting the essential ingredients to even fresher, more weightless heights. Never does the song stray off path or into uncertain territory. It develops, acquiring a soft, female sound that compliments the the colorful island of sound. The aura softens from around 7:05 until it's close at 8:32, landing elegantly an unforgettable journey. This is a beautiful closing track. A
In conclusion, Movements is the passion project that many fans of the ambient and downtempo/CHILL genre have been waiting for. I have so many downtempo albums; so many I like. Yet so few I consider excellent, not just good or great but really up there as superb. The first two Shpongle albums more or less and very few others. Add Movements to that short list. The tracks here are wonderful to listen to at nighttime, and/or undistracted accept for maybe inner thoughts, complimented by the music. I was never enamored by previous Solar Field albums to this degree. I came close to purchasing Leaving Home and 2007's Earthshine in the past. Leaving Home I found too lacking in downtempo while Earthshine seemed light on the ambient influence in order to compensate its cool, mainly uptempo approach. Movements fuses both ambient and downtempo together in a way that has finally captivated my senses, and it will surely impress the majority of downtempo listeners out there. There are ambient tracks, real ambient songs here without beats, though such ambient is often connected to wonderful downtempo tracks that they evolve into. My only complaint resides in Dust and Patterns, two songs that appear to end a little too soon after they showcase their most present feelings; yet they compliment the creative ambient closing's that Solar Fields has prepared for each track. Patterns appears just short of its full potential, though both Dust and Patterns are well done, like solid bonus tracks sprinkled amongst a masterpiece. All in all, Movements would have won best 2008 downtempo album, bar none, if it released then. 2009 may be young. Movements sets the bar high. It's as if Solar Fields had an epiphany, an aware realization and/or vision, and decided to go all out. Movements is ambitious, provocative, ethereal, and absorbing from start to finish. It is one of the best albums I have ever heard -- in any genre. Thank you Solar Fields for choosing heart and substance over ego/money (selling out) and for going all out, taking chances. Anything (and occurrence) is possible after all. The result is an album that many will finally consider a real masterpiece.
Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11.
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Samples / Order here:
Saikosounds: http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7737
Psyshop: http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/inr/inr1cd035.html
It's also available on Amazon MP3 for less. But this is worth the whole package in zero-compressed quality.
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Oh wow, sounds aggressive and tasty!
Buhu.. That´s not a cover in true Suntrip-standard!
I hope the music will be better, cause this is a sure buy.
Baaa! It's just a cover. And I think it looks pretty cool. Btw did you not hear those samples? The music sounds great!
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This is easily one of the best "free" albums out there. It would be great even if it was selling. Roughly two hours of psychedelic and edgy Goa/Psytrance with exception to the ethereal introduction that could have been amazing if it evolved into a lengthier track. But I still like it... a lot, a treasure to listen to, very positive and surreal!
Sonorush, Lunar Core, Moksha, and In The Stream are my top favorites here. Followed by Neuro and Metalucid and/or Retrocede. The only track I don't care for is Secrets Of The Atom with all its swishy sounds taking place; I find it too busy and messy for my preference. Otherwise I love the atmosphere on this album, the occasional dark and edgy style, and how the songs generally evolve.
Moksha and Convergent Images are the two super dance songs here IMO.
This artist should seriously consider producing a new Goa album for our time now as RA did. -
Cool. Checking this out (below). The only song I ever heard by this artist was Dzog Chen before seeing this thread, the artist's myspace page. Hopefully he will produce a wonderful Goa album for a label, possibly Suntrip to release.
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As always an extended thanks to all universal supporters of these efforts.
It's always a bonus to come here and glimpse your individual insights into what the music is doing for each of you. Interesting and entertaining all the while.KUDOS for taking the time to produce a consistently GREAT album!
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OOOD - FOURTHOUGHT
2008
PHAR PSYDE RECORDS
*Updated* JAN 14 - 2009
Track list
1. Watchers In The Sky (9:08)
2. Warm Slinky (10:17)
3. Attitude Engine (9:50)
4. Hornrider (Red Bourbon Mix) (9:45)
5. Durka Durka (8:04)
6. Slang Thang (8:33)
7. Apollo, Son Of Rifa (9:00)
8. Starseeker (Crystal Skies '08 Mix) (8:37)
9. Gawn Sarf (5:30)
This is a great release. And I like it more than Free Range so far, an album by general consensus considered one of the best Psytrance releases from 2007. Although I felt that Free Range could have had less interludes to get in the way of the music, that's not a problem here, yet the fun intros are back. So how is OOOD - Fourthought? A full track-per-track review ensues...
1. Watchers In The Sky begins with a gentle and mystical, mysterious sound. The song is surprisingly unique, artistic, and catchy. I first noticed its distinct sound, streams of melodies, ambient. Such aspects compliment the tasty sound and beat. But as the song progresses, it develops these elements; the song evolves. The voice samples are good too. The melody/sound and atmospheric is great, transporting the listener to an almost surreal, fantasy world and time. As the song continues, I feel like this vehicle is approaching a more dynamic and energetic world. But the song never loses its floating edge. I wasn't expecting a song this kinesthetic, let alone for an introductory one by OOOD. It's interesting, enjoyable and at this speed. I really like the fantasy sound, and how the rhythm gains strength as it moves forward, never jumping into uptempo, a smart decision by the artists. This is a cool and intriguing opening. B+
2. Warm Slinky is that brand of start up recipe, though the album is gradually moving towards a more danceable, groovy path. Several minutes into the opening appears Goa influenced melodies as the bass line changes keys to enhance the growing rhythm. I like the sound throughout. It's groovy and emotive, never cheesy; the song is filled with solid ingredients for thought. I feel like these artists realized that they could elicit more passion themselves, when working with OTT and various other artists, as well as drawing up a more aware model in some ways for this follow up. The euphoric melody/sound work along with the medium driving beat stands out. These elements are catchy; the song gets better, more developed and infectious as it progresses. The subtle Goa influence and various other sound/beat work compliment the softer elements. Great track. B+
3. Attitude Engine begins with a humorous sample. That "it's better to...", well I don't want to spoil it. The beat appears stronger here than on previous tracks. The song and album both seem to be building towards a more danceable atmosphere. By the 2-3 minute area, a really catchy, groovy beat and sound breaks out. Numerous creative effects take off around the funky rhythm. A guitar is introduced, never overpowering the cool atmosphere. The vehicle progresses, becoming more energetic into the third and fourth minute. A string of layers release to compensate for a wonderful evolution, interlude. This part is impressive, unpredictable, elegant, and elevating. What follows roughly 5-6 minutes inward is a great, change up in beat and sound as the song evolves. The last two minutes seem to retrace itself rather than create fresh hills and dynamics. But this is s small nitpick, observation as the overall song is memorable. I only wish the song kept me more captivated into its final 1-2 minutes. Overall, another great track. B+
4. Hornrider (Red Bourbon Mix) begins with another short voice sample, followed by an unexpectedly cool and pleasing sound on the sense. While every track is so different from the one before it, I'm starting to notice a strikingly attractive consistently; the songs combine strong and groovy beats, bass lines, music and sounds great for dancing along with thought, feeling; the tracks are often warm and dynamic. They're fun to listen to both on and off dancing. This track is arguably the most friendly dance number here so far. Yet the artists manage to create a beat free interlude that suspends the vivid animations before clashing the senses with a returning beat/sound mixed into an even stronger, evolving path. Soon after this interlude appears some of the best melody/sound work I have ever heard by OOOD. Wow. This song just takes off across the skies. Returning is key changes, but not like before. These are different, and catchy too. New sounds develop and layers of ambient flood the golden scenery. Suddenly it's gone, replaced by fresh, alien sounds. A tuba and what appears to be organic instruments and a voice arrives. Strings let loose over a Jazz influenced interlude. It's not long before the vehicle lifts off into a short, bursting build/climax. This is a strong part! The build up in sound is great; it's imaginative and very danceable. Voice bits skip to the humming layers as ambient tunes return along with what appears to be a tuba, Jazz influence and more. Excellent work! A-
5. Durka Durka (8:04) begins with... farting? Hmmm.. Okay (half smiling). This introductory voice sample includes a group farting session that will be really liked and disliked by many people for some time to come. That said, the intro here is random, humorous, and ends soon after it begins, though I wish it ended a bit sooner. Suddenly the song lifts off! No more silly sounds, although OOOD has proven that they haven't lost their playful energy. The driving, danceable music, sound and rhythm build is arresting. I love the atmosphere. The echoed cricket sounds are great. The voice samples are cool. Another observation is that the overall album appears to be getting stronger as it progresses, not just more dance friendly, but more psychedelic as well. Thankfully the silly farting ended in the first minute or I would have probably not enjoyed the track as much. Throughout Durka Durka, the artists let loose a tribal trance influenced high energy dance number, filled with fire and spirit. While not what I consider spectacular, the song is great from after its first minute until its breath taking finish. B+
6. Slang Thang is an unexpectedly driving, dark Psytrance number. Wow. This proves that OOOD has a talent as well for producing great dark Psytrance. These guys better be careful though. If they play with fire they're going to attract the anarchists.
A darkly lit and driving rhythm ignites, develops towards an interlude and takes off again. This is a song to fly down the highway while listening and/or dancing at nighttime to. Towards the middle third forward, OOOD pushes the intensity bar, producing what may be the most fiercely intense and exciting Psytrance number I've heard all year. I love the take off moments, the crazy/skipping voices; the climactic elements are superb. Unfortunately, the vehicle loses some power towards its last two minutes as if the artists weren't quite sure where to take it and that's my only problem with the song, as it could have ended sooner and with a bang as opposed to a drawn out moment. Moreover, the song would have been amazing if it topped itself in its final moments. Overall, great track. But the climax moments, the second and third quarter of this song is amazing! B+7. Apollo, Son Of Rifa is an impressively layered and intricate, infectious stormer. This one ups the ante, and may even be more satisfying and strong, ending included than the previous number. The concept slightly reminds me of Jikkenteki's dynamic and intricate style. Yet this has OOOD written all over it. The number appears to continuously evolve and get more elaborate and flavorful, psychedelic as it progresses. Awesome work. A-
8. Starseeker (Crystal Skies '08 Mix) begins with a really upbeat sample, talking about a fantasy world of sorts within a tree. The melody work wastes no time making a strong impression as the atmosphere fills the environment with attractive textures. There is a shuffling sound that's quite catchy. Many psy sounds emerge as the vehicle moves forward. Where is the big hook though? I wonder. The Goa melody sounds cool; my favorite part is the second third into the track when a subtle female voice vanishes soon after it appears. I'm not quite sure the instrument, piano possibly, but it's catchy. The beat is removed for a pleasant albeit short, ambient driven interlude. The beat returns as if jogging with running pauses in its tracks. Strange, echoed voice work compliment a strong and infectious Goa-esque melody. It's great, especially to the more aggressive and driving progression. The combination of electronica music and multi genre influence here is fun. This is a good if not great track. B+
9. Gawn Sarf is a Chill/downtempo track. It's interesting, catchy. The slower tempo compliments the multi genre influenced Psytrance album. I initially thought this song was pretty good but my attention locked both at and past the Goa melody arrival. Filled with what appears to be psychedelic Pop, Jazz, Funk, Trance, and even a live Piano and more, the song is like a living, breathing orchestra playing across the stars. This is a creative and solid closing number to a great album. B+
In conclusion, if you liked Free Range, you'll most certainly like Fourthought. Both albums are strong, dynamic, and fun, and it will be interesting to see which one people favor more. Production is excellent. And the package is just as, if not even more dynamic and fun than ever before. There was one song that stood out to me so much on Free Range, that being Eye Of The Beholder (With OTT). With Fourthought, the greatness of their best work seems to have infected the entire album, as I have difficulty selecting top favorites. I'm really pleased with the album. OOOD's melody/sound work appears to have matured, improved in some ways since previous releases, but it hasn't lost its edge or sense of wit and humor. The artists thankfully avoided the in-between track interludes that for me, grew tired quick and got in the way of the music tracks on Free Range. That said, both Free Range and Fourthought compliment each other. But I like this one more; I find more great, excellent tracks. In short, not one song here comes close to average. Fourthought is one of the best Psytrance albums of 2008. I don't quite know how OOOD managed to produce and release an album this strong within a year from their previous album that was praised by so many people as a best album of 2007 but they managed to pull it off.
Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
B+
Samples
http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/phr/phr1cd004.html
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7523
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Superb, at times magical, stunning; this is one of the best Goa albums. I keep forgetting how much I enjoy this album until I hear it again.
INFINITE DREAM (!!)
SPHERIC KONCEPT (!!)
MOON INFLUENCE (!!!!!)
MYSTICAL APPEARANCE IN GOA (!!!!!).
WOW.
9/10 easily.
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V/A - Fahrenheit Project 2
2001
Ultimae
Track listing:
01. Robert Rich : Somnium intro ... N/A
02. Solar Fields : Electric Fluid ... B
03. Vibrasphere : San Pedro ... A-
04. Khetzal : Glaciales Lacrimae ... A-
05. Nuclear Ramjet : Folding Time ... B+
06. Aes Dana : Summerlands ... A-
07. Chi-ad : When The Effect Came ... B+
08. Hol Baumann : Benares ... A-
09. Cell : Keun Yung ... B
10. Mystical Sun : Waters Of Life ... B
11. Robert Rich : Somnium ... N/A
Great compilation. I didn't know Khetzal made music downtempo/Goa Chill in 2001 let alone made music V/A - Apsara. This is great stuff. I've seen the Fahrenheit compilations over the years but payed little attention to them, as I stuck to the Ultimae friendly artists that I most enjoyed like Aes Dana and Asura via their main albums. Until someone mentioned when discussing Hol Baumann in a 2008 thread Hol's song Benares was originally on this 2001 compilation.
In conclusion, Fahrenheit Project Part Two is one of the most solid downtempo compilations out there includes songs by Solar Fields, Vibrasphere, Khetzal, Aes Dana, Chi-ad, Hol Baumann, etc. Need I say more? This is a great compilation. I'm surprised I'm buying and hearing this for the first time now, but better late than never. And btw the Chi-a.d. track sounds like an Indian Eastern downtempo song in part New Age and Goa influenced and in another part slight funk/techno edge via Crystal Method and Chemical Brothers. It's excellent! And that's right before one of my favorite downtempo tracks ever! This is a fantastic compilation. If the others were this strong, I'd buy them too.
Favorite tracks: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
B+
Samples won my attention: http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=2345
Unfortunately the album was unavailable to buy.
Fortunatley, Ultimae is smart enough to put a handful of their albums on Amazon MP3 so I decided to order it in great quality below for $8.99.
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Hol Baumann - Human
Ultimae Records
February 2008
Tracklist
1. Hours
2. Breathe
3. Radio Bombay
4. Benares (Vârânaçî Edit)
5. Endless Park
6. [Human]
7. One Step Behind
8. We Are Analogue
9. A Forgotten Ritual
10. Tiny Hidden Track
I hadn't heard the few tracks released before either. So this album was new to me too. Furthermore, I just became aware of this album in January, 09 after reading through the "BEST OF 2008" thread. I like it. I'm not in love with the whole thing but this downtempo style and sound is refreshing and tasty on more than a couple occasions. Actually, I don't waste my money on stuff I don't consider good/great anymore with a failing economy. This is one of only four or five 2008 downtempo albums I bought. For more, read on.
1. Hours I initially enjoyed, and the idea of the Christmas-bell notes playing around the bass line and key changes; the bell notes I find a bit too focused and wear off on my senses early on during repeat listens to some degree. The song is ultimately simple and a bit too tame for my personal taste but not bad. The sound is unique and will be further explored to stronger degrees on tracks to come. A decent to fairly good opening. The sound is unique, though I'm not impressed yet. B-
2. Breathe is one of the only songs with ethnic vocals; they come across more like sound samples than singing. The violen compliments the stronger beat, along with a more masculine, melodic sound that rises in high notes and then back down. It's catchy! I love the speed and the beat, music throughout. A psychedelic cool and twisted sound effect takes place from 3:37 to 3:40 and wow, sound elements like this are great ways to make the song more psychedelic at times. It's a tiny detail but appreciated. The song never falls off into questionable territory but seems to reprise its confidence, thus refreshing my enjoyment from start to finish. The returning beat around 4:49 is smart too, without voice samples, the song breathes in its driving, though never spectacular or gorgeous direction. Cool track. B
3. Radio Bombay is the second and possibly final number with ethnic vocals. I love the organic sounding instruments and sounds combined with the beat and bass line element. The fresh returning of the music with strong key changes around 2:55 after a breathing interlude is excellent, gripping. I like how the song becomes more powerful, developed as it progresses, never losing its soul to an uptempo or even mid tempo speed. Great direction and work throughout! B+
4. Benares (Vârânaçî Edit) is excellent, fantastic. Here these artists prove that they can match virtually any top artist in the downtempo genre, but in their ethnic influenced musical style. The song is more animated, dynamic and a bit more aggressive here too. The song is filled with a strong and infectious musical sound combined with some of the best tribal influence and melody arrangement that I have ever heard in the downtempo genre. I highly recommend Hol Baumann to further pursue creating more stand out songs with greater energy like this one. Unlike the lacking in zest opening, this less progressive, more developed nature retains its beauty and strength throughout. This is easily my favorite track on the album. I'm completely sold on the melody/beat work. It would be awesome if these artist(s) produced more super songs like this one. I love it. Wonderful track! A
5. Endless Park is an interesting, gradually developing piece. But it's so short, thus remaining a bit forgettable or at least noted for what could have been so much more. That said, for what this is, three minutes of unique and musical greatness. The song is slow, carefully articulated and passionately produced. I suppose it could have been longer and blossomed into something really superb; I enjoy it the way this is as well. It's interesting. The song continues to evolve and soon ends, thus producing shorter length less memorable to me and some others seem to agree. Interesting work, great while it lasts. I just feel like more could have been done to extend the greatness here. B+
6. [ Human ] is great. I love how the new agey, ambient influenced downtempo number builds up to the tribal combination beginning aruond 1:53. It's great! Followed by an interlude for only around twenty seconds in the third minute, the catchy tribal downtempo trance returns. Various musical notes and sounds compliment the unique style and sound. I really like this. B+
7. One Step Behind has bell sounds around far more melody/sound development than the opening. I prefer this one. It's more emotive, the beat on the chime is great and various other melodies distribute attention to more areas of an attractive world of moving, developing sound. The ambient notes enhance its feelings too. Smooth, enjoyable track. B+
8. We are analog is a dreamy psy and ambient influenced score over a slow, chillingly gentle beat. Coupled with a moment of peace, a beat free interlude, I really like the softer sound present throughout this track. As the beat returns with more energy around 4:16 it elevates song, enhances the gentle waters with a more sensual current. Good track! B
9. A forgotten ritual is a more traveling, melancholic beat with strong tunes present over an atmospheric backdrop. A solid track to end the album on. B
In conclusion, I love the tribal beats, influences on this album. I generally love the music and style and relieved to see that the creator(s) kept the style downtempo influenced. I'd love to hear more songs that further develop and explore the energy and greatness of tracks like Bénarès (Vârânaçî edit), Endless Park, Human for starters, as those are very enjoyable and fun to listen to. I also enjoy softer, more ambient influenced downtempo tracks, such as We are analog. Overall this is a great Chill album and one of the best 2008 downtempo albums.
Favorite tracks: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
B+
Samples (It's also available on MP3 via Amazon)
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7097
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Pleiadian tracks:
Aclyone and Asterope
UX - Masters of the Universe (for sure).
Filteria has a handful of tracks that may emphasize the chaos, intensity, high octane energy, buildup, end of the world. My guess is anyones.
- Sky Input album: Operation Pulse, etc
- Heliopolis album: Rotate To Vibrate, etc
I think people often think of crazy when it comes to the end of the world. But I have no idea what I'll appreciate listening to (or not, music wise) under intense situations, i.e: global warming, etc. The world won't end; life goes on. There currently appears to be an exponentially growing degree of world tension. It's just a matter of time I imagine until something big happens that shakes many people out of their self aborted shells. I recently read a big article talking about how New York City, the subways will be flooded in the near (potentially next 10 years) future as sea levels rise to compensate for global warming. Again, I have no idea what I'll be listening to, but Psy music often puts me in a more fearless state so I'll likely be listening to Psy music.
Now I know that wasn't Lemmi's original question; it just got me thinking. That's all. -
Yes. Happy New Years everybody. Rino, nice overview.
Alright it's getting that time; the Best of 2008 thread is now up in the sub-forum at the top of the General Section. I recently came across an album called Hol Baumann - Human which is pretty impressive for downtempo. Check it out. Btw you can get it for less on amazon MP3.
Hol Baumann - Human
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7097
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Classic Process (Hale-Bop) is excellent. I didn't realize how how well done it was until I let some time go by and listened to it again. Especially while driving at nighttime; it really sets the mood. I'd say it's one of the best non-remixed tracks here along with Pentagon.
Unfortunately I never heard the original Antonomasia. So I can't compare it to the remix, though based on the remix here I'd probably enjoy the original. Of the more known remixes, I'd take Lunar Civilization (Pleiadians rmx) over Full Mental Jackpot (Etnica rmx II) without question. Both the original and the remix here of Lunar Civilization are strong, rare gems in Psytrance.
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IFO has 3 amazing tracks and 3 not good tracks.
I'd give I.F.O. Maia, Aclyone, Elektra, and Asterope above and beyond Targeta, Merope, and Celeano. But I enjoy all tracks on I.F.O., including Celeano, though I favor it the least.
The F.O.L. album should have been included in the poll IMO. Naturally, I voted I.F.O.
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Eat Static - Back To Earth
2008
Tracklist
1 Tuned Mass Damper (5:56)
2 Pharaoh (5:38)
3 Lo-Ride Sloucher (6:39)
4 Flippity Flippity (5:23)
5 Epoch Calypso (5:58)
6 Holy Stone (8:10)
7 Pearl Of Wisdom (7:09)
8 Up Periscope (8:08)
9 Dune Rider (6:40)
10 Valley Of The Moon (7:02)
11 The Wreckage (6:56)
I agree with much of what Abasio said.
The Pharaoh track is interesting; it's gripping, great!
Overall I found their previous De-Classified album more satisfying, fun to listen to. It would be awesome if they produced an album with a grander feel, with more tracks on the level of Pharaoh. This album makes the same mistake that the Juno Reactor - God's and Monsters album made earlier on in the year. It tries to be too many things all at once; it tries to have a track for almost everyone into Electronica. In doing so, I only like several tracks. However by general consensus, most people seem to agree that Pharaoh is great. So I hope their next album is amazing. Because this isn't a bad album but it's not up to Abduction and De-Classified either. While some tracks are pretty good, others don't sound like Eat Static's general style, but an ethnic influenced Shpongle to some degree. This group must include more super songs if they want to grab more buyers, especially in this world wide economy recession (call it what you want to) that we're in right now. That said, this isn't a bad release. There's some good/great work on it. Hopefully the next album is more grand and edgy (intense, adventurous, and comes out further ahead than this decent to fairly good release).
Favorite tracks: 2, 3, 7, 8
B-
Samples
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7402
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Trance
1;Ra;9th;Suntrip Records
2;Jikkenteki;Flights Of Infinity;Par-2 Productions
3;Crop Circles;Tetrahedron;DAT Records
4;VA;Sundrops;Suntrip Records
5;VA;Opus Iridium (Disk 1);Suntrip Records
Chill
1;Hol Baumann;Human;Ultimae Records
2;Distant System;Spiral Empire;Celestial Dragon
3;Ott;Skylon;Twisted Records
4;VA;Opus Iridium (Disk 2);Suntrip Records
5;Entheogenic;Flight of the Urubus;Universal Symbiosis Records
Honorable Psytrance mentions
6. O.O.O.D.;Fourthought;Phar Psyde Records
7. Electrypnose;Funked Up;Digital Psionics
8. Amithaba Buddha;Goa Gate;Phototropic Records
9. Cybernetica;Nanospheric;Unreleased
10. Talpa;When the somberness becomes a game;Sundance Records
These threads are great. I become aware of other great stuff I missed. :drama:
The new OOOD - Fourthought album is really worth checking out. See my full review here, towards the bottom of page 1.
http://www.psynews.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=54100
The new Electrypnose - Funked Up is great(!), and my favorite album by the artist since Subliminal Melancholies. Tasty recommendation!
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7541
Hol Baumann - Human is really worth checking out too in downtempo. Thanks for the recommendations! Samples below
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7097
BEST 2008 GOA/PSY ALBUM IMHO
RA - 9TH
Samples = http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7266
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I just found out about this today. For psychedelic ambient it sure is interesting. I'm generally more a beat kind of guy with appreciation of ambient moments, tracks (Aes Dana, Asura, Distant Systems). But I can see how one can get lost deeply into a world like this one.
Good quality samples
http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7135
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This is a capturing release, with a strong track variety, from ambient to down/mid-tempo and more. This album deserves the high volume of comments, praise, though not all of the comments here are reviews. I can actually say, many months later and after hearing this album around a dozen-plus times that this is easily one of the best albums of 2008. Furthermore I like it better than previous Aes Dana albums. Though I want to add that certain parts are very emotive which is awesome, such as the first 2:40 in Astromech Starport I'd love to hear stronger, emotive elements invested, further developed into the track as the beat picks up at times. That said, the atmosphere and attention to not just melody/sound work but beat and bass line as well is impressive. The artist keeps things interesting throughout.
However I do feel that certain songs, such as Astropolis and Light Echoes could have done more to maintain a tighter grip on my consciousness as these songs progress. Fortunately the artist creates some great, stand out numbers on Equidistant, Gravitational Vortices, Outer Rim, and even the short 3:33 ambient gem Cloud Nebula. I love the first two or so minutes on Astromech Starport. The beat is great too, and the song as it progresses. On the other hand, Outer Rim starts strong, gains strength as the song progresses via uptempo speed. Outer Rim has many great; however the song gets somewhat repetitive past the 5-6 minute area.
Those into Asura and space/ambient mid-tempo and Chill Solar Fields meets Asura in concept (though in a completely new style) will likely enjoy Distant System - Spiral Empire very much.
Is it possible that this album was released in 2007 and didn't appear on various online sites until the beginning of 2008? My inside flip via CD cover says 2007.
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CALIFORNIA SUNSHINE - NASHA
PHONOKOL RECORDS
1998
Track listing:
01. 10'28" Other Line - A
02. 08'05" Last Feeling - B+
03. 08'09" Never Stop - B+
04. 08'51" X-Wave - B+
05. 07'13" Jajo - A-
06. 07'41" Tokyo Underground - B+
07. 07'27" Red Line - A-
08. 07'47" Born Again - A
09. 08'27" Rain - B+ / A-
I love the artist's style and sound on this album. I completely agree with those who've given this high scores and praise. The sound is heavenly, very ethereal, floating, emotive, gripping and surreal and/or hypnotic at times. I love that. Only track I personally don't care for (but I'm not saying it's average or below) is X-Wave, though the Radio-esque effects are cool. I find it too repetitive regardless of it's cool, echoing melody that many people seem to like. But it's still a cool, atmospheric track and all other songs I like/love. This is a super album regardless and the best album by California Sunshine to date. I will be amazed if this artist breaks out with a wonderful, new Psy/Goa album some day over the coming years. Anything is possible. Other Line and Born Again are unquestionably my highest favorites here. I love these two tracks. But all of them are strong, none are below good. This is IMO CS's best release of them all. Awesome cover too! But that's a cool bonus. Nasha is a classic.
Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8
A-
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CROP CIRCLES - TETRAHEDRON
DAT RECORDS
2008
Track list
1. Lunar Civilization (Pleiadians rmx)
2. Antonomasia (Lotus Omega rmx)
3. Daffy Duck (On the Comet)
4. Cerealogy
5. Pentagon
6. Classic Process (Hale-Bop)
7. Full Mental Jackpot (Etnica rmx II)
8. No more Single
Dat Records has officially released one of the most wanted albums in Psytrance ever. Finally after 10 years, cult classic and rare Pleiadian side project Crop Circles - Tetrahedron gets an official release! Re-Mastered by Tim Schuldt in 2008 and produced by 6 members: Andrea Rizzo, Carlo Paternò, Filippo Scrimizzi, Francesco D'Amato, Maurizio Begotti, Max Lanfranconi. These are the artists from Etnica, Pleiadians, and Lotus Omega in their prime, and they produced one of the sickest, most elaborate forms of psychedelic trance ever. Yes this is it. Tetrahedron has a cult following throughout the world. This is an album for those who love old school Pleiadian’s and maximal and/or high octane Psy/Goa trance/dance music in general. For those who like Pleiadian's and never heard this, you are in for a surprise, as samples seldom give justice to the whole peaces of the tasty pie that makes up Tetrahedron. The album appears more abstract than I.F.O., though less elegant and harmonious; it's more abrasive and appears just as layered. Actually, the album is aggressive, chaotic, bombastic, adrenaline inducing, and at times over-the-top. The following includes tracks I’ve never even heard before until this official release. The question is: How golden is the long awaited album from the golden days of Goa? A track-per-track review analysis ensues.
1. Lunar Civilization (Pleiadians rmx) launches the album with a strong remix of a famous psytrance super song. I’ve heard the original including Filteria’s fierce remix in 2006. This rare remix by the Pleiadian’s is excellent. Psy details are often in the background to the melody leads. They're creatively pulled to the front here, splashing around the melody leads like enhanced lights on a magical trip to wonderland. The main melody is great; it runs through numerous sections of development like a ninja cutting through bodies with an impenetrable sword. From an altered sound variation around 2:45 to key changes into the third minute, to a voice bit around 4:50, the song comes equipped with the classic Pleiadian influenced machine gun spinning melody from 5:42 into the sixth minute as well. The song is continuously involving. An interesting interlude takes place around 6:50 followed by a strong, echoing female voice; this is my favorite part of song. I love the combination of the music along with the mysterious, echoed female voice. I think the voice part should have been extended, as it’s quite catchy. Loaded with climax and intensity, the drums climb over a music vanishing moment in the final third, opening the door to streaming melodies that carry the vehicle to the closing finish. Monster track. A
2. Antonomasia (Lotus Omega rmx) introduces a deeper bass line and percussion than before; the melody/sound work is present behind the beat. Around 2:30, an infectious melody stream develops. Hi hats change up, echo and clatter, pan shifting across the speakers as fresh sounds emerge; the effect is startling, like cars moving out of the way for a more dynamic vehicle. A strong, non intense stream of euphoric sound compliments the atmosphere around 4:32. What’s great about this track is its ability to remain strong and catchy, without being chaotic and intense. Antonomasia is more elegant Goa/Psytrance than the previous fireball. I don’t find its leads or synth work as infectious. But the song’s structure and direction is innovative, interesting. More elaborate sound paragraphs are spotlighted over the sixth minute; the song becomes richer, more textured and layered as it progresses. By the seventh minute, several songs appear to be playing simultaneously, through innovative correlation; they’re all connected. They flow together extremely well. While the track isn’t as high octane, dance rocket as the previous number, it’s groovy, complex, intellectual, articulative, and a strong follow up to the previous, more ADD-styled number. Excellent track. A-
3. Daffy Duck (On the Comet) is a breather after the previous two weapons of destruction. The song isn’t bad but overall one of the less compelling colors of paint here. I find it missing a strong, infectious melody/sound rhythm or lead(s) to capture my senses. It starts out interesting, spacey and atmospheric, with altered/alien voices. It sounds like an ET ship is undergoing maintenance, attempting to charge up. The beginning is most certainly curious, and as the beat arrives into the first minute, things are pretty good. A streaming melody and various other sounds support relatively dance friendly beat. As the track progresses however, with a monotonous beat, percussion, and bass line, the melody alterations just don’t seem to do any cool tricks; they remain rather bland, as if they’re going through the motions as opposed to reinventing them, as previous tracks did. Several interludes drop the beat, lasting seconds before the general sound from before returns. Occasional melodies arrive. I must have heard this track at least ten times, when driving, exercising, home listening and more. It’s isn’t bad. It just doesn’t seem to have a star moment in its ten minute quest. Sure there’s some build up from 6:45 to 6:55. But the delivery doesn’t lift the music to new heights. Overall a decent track, my least favorite here so far. B-
4. Cerealogy is less intense than the first two numbers. It is however brooding, moody and strong, danceable. Beginning with an abundance of atmospheric psy sounds. The beat kicks in around 1:07. Within this upcoming jungle, a strong and deep melody carries the vehicle across numerous soundscapes as various sound bits trail the main melody lead. I find this number far more delectable, interesting, and gripping than the previous track. Loaded with sound sentences developing paragraphs so to speak. They come and go, often overlapping each other at times. The song’s only weakness may be its inability to climax. Nonetheless, I find the track more effective and roaming, groovy this way. Around 6:00 is the first major change up in sound; it’s as if a new track has begun. Sounds come into view more clear than before; the tempo seems to pick up. The rhythm feels more charged, aggressive as a loud booming sound rumbles through the noise via 6:57. By now several melody leads, none too loaded nor heavy lead the path through sn intriguing interlude, and an additional evolution around 7:35. Cerealogy becomes more driving, energetic, and absorbing as it progresses. It begins like a slow wind and develops into a debree wielding tornado, consuming everything in its path. The gradual development of this song is strong. While the execution isn’t spectacular to me, the end result is imaginative and catchy nonetheless. This is arguably the best not super intense track on the album. Great work! B+
5. Pentagon is one of, if not the most favored track here by general consensus. Personally I find it the best here along with the opening. But it will be interesting to see what others think. The original (non-mastered) version is no different here with exception to what appears to be improved mastering. The entire song has had a face lift so to speak. Taking place in a stormy, dystopian, though eclectic future, the craft rides into the darker, more atmospheric reaches of space or whatever mysterious world and/or environment this appears to take place on. The song takes a minute to dissolve its intro into groovy textures and bass lines. Hi hats are activated around 1:25. But this vehicle is just warming up. A rumbling, vibrating sound permeates throughout the land, a unique enhancement, like engines firing up. The first two minutes create build up. By 2:40 an infectious and powerful, driving sound rhythm begins. The vehicle's moving at a healthy speed; then suddenly decides to acquire a power pack around 3:22. Here, listeners are introduced to a super, cybernetic melody lead. It’s not ultra fast, but strong, screamingly infectious, quite literally, and abrasive! This pissed off, electrical current is soon joined by a more delightful melody lead, quite bubbly and colorful via 3:45. Both leads play off each other incredibly well until the more euphoric sound disappears in order to enhance the cybernetic capital. From 4:17 to 6:20 is quite possibly my favorite part of the song and the album. The abundance of Pleiadian melodies support the razor edge melody as it cuts through the atmosphere like a blade of death. The rest of the song is great, excellent. The atmospheric, melody/sound work and direction is refreshing throughout. This is my favorite track here if I had to pick one. It’s dark, innovative, and exciting, catchy. A
6. Classic Process (Hale-Bop) is a less intense driver after the previous beast. It’s interesting to hear a richly layered song that isn’t climax driven by these artists. The track takes some time to pick up; the organic, gargling voice effects I never found appealing or catchy. They become less present by 2:20 as the first strong melody lead and rhythm lifts off the vehicle around 3:30. The song isn’t overloaded with ideas, executions. A sweet tempo change up around 4:20 instigates a less linear structure; the song remains danceable. By 5:28 a fusion of melodies returns with additional Goa support, key changes, and more. Classic Process is less risky and over the top than super songs before it. However it maintains a strong, healthy boost of adrenaline without over stimulating the senses. Excellent track. A-
7. Full Mental Jackpot (Etnica rmx II) is another track with a history of remixes. The Pleiadian’s remix is stronger in my opinion, beginning very emotive and ethereal before engaging into a heavy and intense number; it's really the same track with more sounds, intensity. The Etnica remix here begins interesting enough. Many elements appear remixed and in some ways the song is more building, less intense and over-the-top climax dependent than the Pleiadian remix. This version gradually develops, evolving quite well and picking up some serious energy into the third minute, especially around 3:42. Here the vehicle shifts into high gear; it’s excellent. The song becomes a strong and fierce, driving rhythm, as little alien and/or animalistic sounds fly by and chirp past the beat like a conscious missile passing through a psychedelic rainforest. Both the fourth and fifth minute nail the build/climax petal after sustaining buildup. Energy is gained around 5:05. These parts are catchy; they're a pleasure to listen to. Past 5:30 however, numerous musical segment’s take place that are less rocket boosting. Sure there’s a sweet build up from 6:28 to 6:40, but the end result leaves a lot to be desired when compared to the Pleiadian remix. Nonetheless, those who appreciate less intense and/or climax driven songs may appreciate this remix more. Furthermore, the version here was remixed in Etnica's prime; a group known for producing some of the best electronic music of all time, at least around the time they produced two Pleiadian albums, this one, the cult classic Alien Protein release, and a little super something/album called The Juggling Alchemist Under the Blacklight. While this isn't my favorite Full Mental Jackpot version, I feel that is one of the better Crop Circles remixes and an overall strong, dance friendly track. Great work. A-
8. No more Singles is my second to least favorite track on the album after Daffy Duck. But this is far more interesting and unique in architecture, design. It’s a relatively slow, non-intense mid-tempo number. Produced with a different, mechanical sound than previous songs. I initially found that it lacked a hook, a stand out element to carry it strong. The more I listened, and over time, the more I began to feel less uptight with the experimental style and approach that had me feeling uncertain. By focusing on that emotion I simply amplified it, thus remaining in a confused, self-absorbed and unclear state. For starters, the spiraling melody and rhythm around 1:31 is catchy. A second strength is the evolution from 4:01 forward, and the new moves acquired as the vehicle moves into its fifth minute. Eventually the high pitched melody approach is a hit-and-miss for me; sometimes I find it too much as the track progresses, other times it's alright. But the driving rhythm and speed, especially up into the eighth minute forward is pretty sweet. The song could have used some real atmosphere to give it more of a surreal, planetary identity; Crop Circles seemed intent on making a real unemotional and futuristic number when producing No More Singles. Currently I prefer Celeano and Seven Sisters, the closing tracks on both old school Pleiadian albums over the closing track here. But it will be interesting to see what others think. You decide! B
In conclusion, Tetrahedron is the rare and re-mastered, finally released side project by the artists behind one of the greatest album’s ever produced in psytrance by general consensus: I.F.O. Those who’ve heard I.F.O. and/or F.O.L. will be familiar with the crazy, psychedelic style of Crop Circles. The album takes time to process and absorb due to its heavy amount of details and layers. Tetrahedron is extremely psychedelic, intricate, developed, atmospheric, powerful, and more or less dark and/or intense depending on the track. Super songs include Lunar Civilization, Pentagon, and more. This is quite possibly the biggest and overall most nostalgic surprise of Psy/Goa-Trance, 2008. If I were to compare it to Pleiadian’s I.F.O., I’d say that I.F.O. was more elegant and fluid in transitions, for starters; this is more rough and chaotic overall. Personally I like I.F.O. more. Nonetheless, this is a super extension from two landmarks albums in electronica: I.F.O. and F.O.L respectively. I don’t care for Daffy Duck very much, a breather in a sense before stronger track Cerealogy. I prefer Cerealogy and Classic Process in that regard. Naturally it will be interesting to see what other people think of every track here, who favors what, etc.
Tetrahedron is one of the most labyrinthine, maximal Psytrance album’s ever produced. It took six members to complete and has won a plethora of praise and desire to attain over the years for its distinct sound/style and intermediate sound engineering, production and imagination. Furthermore, it’s extremely danceable. I’m surprised that this album was never officially released before. If I were to note two weaknesses, I’d say the album has its non superb tracks and after hearing I.F.O., I thought that anything these artists touched would turn to gold, though this album is considered golden, classic by many listeners. Second, a remix or two here I find very entertaining, but I don’t love them as much as other variations, i.e: Full Mental Jackpot (Etnica Remix II) for instance. But that’s me. Fortunately, the remixes are strong and remixed by the same artists who created the originals, Pleiadian’s and Etnica. Tetrahedron has been one of the most wanted albums in Psytrance; if we were to say “never released” it would probably be number one. Overall this is a great album with several of the best Psytrance songs ever made on it. I want to add that this is a nighttime album; it’s good to dance, drive, and exercise too, or just listen to on good head phones, etc, shutting the eyes and getting lost in, visualizing, whatever. Starring at the computer screen while listening to this is probably a bad idea and will distract from the greatness and fun, as the album is super energetic. I want to thank Dat Records, DJ Draeke, and everyone else involved for giving this a proper release after all these years.
Favorite tracks - 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7.
A-
Sample / Order
Psyshop: http://www.psyshop.com/shop/CDs/dat/dat1cd001.html
Saikosounds: http://www.saikosounds.com/english/display...ase.asp?id=7678
Beatspace: http://www.beatspace.com/dettagli/dettaglio.asp?id=4665
Wirikuta: http://www.wirikuta.at/web66/product_detai...owDetail=213009
Tower: http://www.tower.com/tetrahedron-crop-circ.../wapi/113079183
Goastore: http://www.goastore.ch/product_info.php?products_id=2784
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1
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1
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CYBERNETIKA - NANOSPHERIC
RELEASED FOR FREE - See below!
2008
01 - Plasmoid (14:47)
02 - The Outer Reach (10:44)
03 - Earthshock (12:44)
04 - Nanospheric (15:01)
05 - Praeforma (8:27)
06 - Finale (8:23)
Total time: 1:10:06
Nanospheric is better than a handful of dark Psytrance albums I own. It's mysterious, dark, and atmospheric. It's also catchy, gripping, and healthy on style and substance, and it's danceable. Those tired of movie samples ruining their experience to escape into the music won't find any here. The artist has covered his bases, producing quite possibly the best dark and/or atmospheric Psytrance album of 2008. The melody/sound work is strong, from leads to supports, ambient tunes compliment developed atmosphere, thus increasing lasting appeal, replay value. Let's take a look at the tracks.
01 - Plasmoid I've heard numerous times from when it was released back around 2006 or 2007. It's a strong and epic, dark world come to life with a superb evolution or two as the song progresses. This track as well as a few on here may actually deserve higher scores. But I'll come back to these as I hear the album more. Plasmoid is great. B+
02 - The Outer Reach follows up Plasmoid nicely. They compliment each other quite well. As a second chapter to Nanospheric actually, this is as strong if not stronger than the previous epic. I prefer the running time here over the previous digit too. More interest seems to take place in a shorter amount of time, thus producing more soundscapes of audio scenery. Whereas the opening track had one, strong melody lead that has stayed with me, this is loaded with interesting melody/sound work. Around 5:16 takes place the first leading melody on the song. The amount of supporting sounds, atmosphere by its side would likely satisfy Asura, Distant Systems, Aes Dana, and more. The song becomes quite infectious, especially from 7:30 forward. I love how the artist enhances the dance friendly aggression with numerous sounds that compliment, another melody lead that's quite unique and catchy, and more. There's also a sustained one-note machine-like melody (exactly at 9:37 for instance) that takes place dozens of times on-and-off throughout. It's awesome. This sound really adds a sweet texture to an already tasty gem. Excellent work. A-
03 - Earthshock is very well done. I wasn't expecting anything this aggressive, atmospheric, and driving (all three). Great track. B+
04 - Nanospheric is interesting. I love how it starts out, very elegant and melodicious (hey I made a new word). I just wish it had more character development (layers, build, evolution) as it progressed. My favorite part is the opening as well as the final third (from 11:32 forward) where shimmering sounds linger like fairy's in an ancient pond until a strong, melody lead dances wild throughout the mystic atmosphere. The song seems a bit repetitive, percussion/beat wise than previous tracks so far. For instance, from 3:38 sounds nice, but by 4:45, I'm hoping to hear something more than the general same beat with wonderful albeit atmosphere alone. Fortunately the interlude around 5:25 revives the journey right when I losing hope. Although the melody work remains somewhat minimal, the sound patterns around the beat is strong. A unique, less spotlighted melody arrives around 6:55 along with several others. It's good, though I feel that the song here is running on its atmospheric strength to compensate for having less melody/sound development. The good news is that this less melody heavy approach produces more space amongst the atmosphere. Overall this is my least favorite track here. But the song, few quirks aside, manages to remain entertaining for its fifteen minute running time. I rarely enjoy a song this length enough to hear it numerous times, but in this case, as with Jikkenteki's work, Pleiadian's Modulation, and few others, I enjoy listening to this time and again. There's some melody climax as it progresses over the eleventh too which is very cool. I just the song continued building its taste factor, not just changed key in its final minutes, as I feel like something's lacking that could have made this song amazing not just atmospheric, driving, and interesting around its extended moments of not-so-smart repetition. Good track with some great ideas and elements. B
05 - Praeforma is n extremely cool, atmospheric breaks, Psy number. I love how it begins; this is something I'd love to use in a wonderful, provocative and edgy fantasy film one day, to enhance emotion and engage the viewer in the opening seconds. Evolving into a strong dance beat, the song develops breaks, taking its time to bask in tasty heaven before progressing. A pretty female voice is past in the opening minutes. Build up takes place from around 3:10 to 3:15 and suddenly the more danceable beat arrives. Female hymns, vocals, atmosphere, and a pleasurable and groovy design of melody/sound work here ensures. A change up in sound back to breaks compliments and refreshing interest from around 4:51 to 5:15, a great implementation. Following is yet a second interlude; the emotive, dreamy edge is highlighted like a gorgeous creature, one possibly going extinct, gracefully flying in the evening wind, night sky. The hard, more danceable beat suddenly returns around 6:20, bringing us into the final act. This is a beautiful and gripping song, and my favorite track yet by Lars, Cybernetica to date. It also makes me think of the possibilities if he produced a downtempo album in this general, emotive, surreal and fantasy, magical style. Wonderful track! A
06 - Finale is a strong, Psy/Chill, downbeat number with cool voice samples, atmosphere, and more. It's solid and refreshing, though not what I consider captivating. The song has breaks too which is great. The melody leads are euphoric, contemplative, as if the song is energy moving over a horizon to enjoy the beautiful sunrise before returning to silence until a later date of growth. I really like this number. I feel that the artist has taken the time to produce a strong though not spectacular closing to a very interesting album. Great track. A-
In conclusion, this is a very interesting, atmospheric, dark and/or explore-the-cosmos Psytrance release. Initially I visualized a powerful, dark and gothic cathedral, kingdom a la the eerie Event Horizon (haunted ship but a far more complex structure) moving through space, affecting every form in its path. Later on however, I started to feel like Cybernetika was creating strong and danceable tracks in his style that only this artist, Asura, Distant Systems, and few others succeeds this well at. Finally someone has released a strong dark/night album with great melody/sound work. That someone is Lars of Cybernetika. Nanospheric is a refreshing release. Quality like this is rarely given out for free too, which I found just as surprising as the high amount of good/great tracks here. The style generally begins in the evolved, dark psytrance approach of Plasmoid, released in 2006 or 2007. However this artist steps outside of that vivid box as the album progresses, producing some very driving and dance friendly numbers in this general imaginative, non watered down nor formulaic style! Each track is completely different, u . nique, and strong. The first two appear more mid than up tempo. It's great actually, not overdoing any speed. The following three numbers (tracks 3-5) are more uptempo. Is this slightly faster than the general psytrance song? I don't know. Initially I thought so. Nonetheless, the uptempo work is great. Earthshock is one of the richer, more chilling dance songs I've heard from dark/mysterious psytrance in quite sometimeThe last number is a style and substance filled downbeat, breaks number. No song is average or below. Every track is in the good range and above, great, excellent. Also present is some of the more interesting, intriguing introductions to songs I've heard all year. The concept behind the actual Nanospheric (cover/title and theme) that represents the album's story is quite interesting too. The concept appears like something I'd read about in Quantum metaphysics, philosophy. It's intriguing. Overall I find this the strongest Cypernetica album yet. This being Lar's most evolved, dynamic release to date. I like how the artist keeps the tracks moving and developing, evolving and atmosphere heavy throughout while carrying that strength over into the melody/sound work and at times, infectious leads to strong beats, bass lines, etc.
Favorite tracks: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
B+
Download link: (right click, save as)
Download Cybernetika - Nanospheric [mp3 @ 320]
Download [wav @ 16/44]
http://www.ektoplazm.com/free-music/cybernetika-nanospheric (courtesy of Basilisk) -
Psylent Buddhi (1997-2003) - Released free by artist in 2008
in 2008
Posted
PSYLENT BUDDHI
1997-2003
Unreleased / Released free by artist in 2008
1. Sonorush
2. Lunar Core
3. Moksha
4. Neura
5. Convergent Images
6. Secrets of The Atom
7. Metalucid
8. Retrocede
9. In The Stream
10. Winter Tickle
I'm impressed. I'm curious as to what this artist would pull off today, Goa wise. His music boarders on aggression (more or less dark), yet there are moments so beautiful and rhythmic at times. Other descriptions past this opening beauty range from moody and intense to dark and extremely danceable/groovy. I like this smart, driving, developed, atmospheric, psychedelic, more or less dark and groovy style. The album is like a Goa robot that walks a fine line between darkness and light, symbolically speaking of course.
1. Sonorush is one of the best Goa openings I've ever heard. It's like a provocative Never Ending Story several minute sunrise piece. Magical. I love it. A-
2. Lunar Core is more atmospheric/Goa and driving. The darker edge, vocal samples and tone is excellent; the Goa isn't too up close, giving the song a classic and edgy old school feel. Awesome work. A-
3. Moksha has an intricate, continuously psychedelic trip. I really like this aggressive, intense, catchy, and varied sound and feel. The beeping melody beginning around 2:50 is excellent, and how the drums and numerous other sounds support this driving melody lead. The song finishes its first act around 5:00 and begins collection itself for the next roller coaster hill or higher energy segment. The energy begins not far from 6:30 with exception to the bump at 7:11. This area here builds to one of the best climaxes thanks to an incredible, echoed melody that turns on around 7:40, before going through a series of twists and turns. WOW. The final third of this song is excellent. I'd love to hear more tracks with these huge buildups. It's a PUMP, the words I've used to describe super songs on Tandu - Multimoods. I still don't understand how this artist didn't fill up a main album/release with some of these songs between 1997 and 2003. So far this is a super album. A-
4. Neura is slower than previous tracks, groovy. Great melody (and skipping not over done but present) work. This artist does so much in positive effect without over loading the senses. This reminds me slightly of Tigerhill or Neuro Glider by BotFB in its dark and continuous gripping, hypnotic rhythm. But this completely different. Nice sample by Ralph fienne's Lenny character from one of my favorite films (Strange Days) too. B+
5. Convergent Images is too very climactic and psychedelic. The synth work is great; I initially confused this song with the following, saying that it was too messy, which it's not IMO. This is a great, full on super Goa dance track. B+
6. Secrets of The Atom is another song loaded with bubbly, psychedelic sounds. I don't like the swishy sound fx here. Furthermore, this song lacks fluidity, grip, and elegance, in some part due to the overloaded sound effects that either partially mask the song's flow or hide its flaws underneath. Overall certain sounds I find too high pitched here, though there's a handful of cool ideas and work. The part around 5:50 is interesting, following an interlude. The heavy sound effect atmospheric sounds are less present and the take-off energy appears more clear. A new melody lead appears around 7:00 and it's pretty good. The big climax towards the end reminds me of old school Pleiadians to some degree, ultra layered and climactic. The style here is too sloppy for my taste however, but this isn't a bad track. It is very psychedelic. B-
7. Metalucid starts out with a chilling melody. This is a driving Psy number built amongst a icy cold backdrop, atmosphere. I especially like how the artist comes and goes the atmosphere, developing the character of the song throughout. The higher energy development towards the end is a great idea. A more dynamic and infectious Goa melody however never arrives which could have made this ending superb. I really like this post apocalyptic or lost in a dead space station while it's breaking apart type feel. The song captures a sense of despair and never lets off the uncertainty, yet remains catchy though pessimistic until its predictable, albeit solid conclusion: The fate is the same as that which began, lost or stuck or dying or soon to be dying or captured in an inescapable reality. I think the story here is tragic, but I could be wrong. - B+
8. Retrocede is another Goa/Psy driving nighttime number with an interesting, atmospheric interlude. I like how this artist takes the time to develop his tracks, and the general buildups, as his songs often go somewhere more interesting and satisfying as they progress. The echoed metal sounds around the middle are cool too, an opportunity missed maybe to do something darker with them, changing up the tempo of the song. They're unique nonetheless and are creatively into the mix before the intermission around 5:40. This artist has got to seriously produce an amazing Goa album for our time now. - B+
9. In The Stream is thoughtful, contemplative, moving, gentle, floating, and emotive. The gradual build up and melody/sound work is excellent. This is one of the most solid Goa/Psy downtempo tracks I've ever heard. A-
10. Winter Tickle is a strong and crisp PSY downtempo number with some interesting, manipulated notes. I prefer other less manipulated melody work, beginning around 7:00. It would have been cool if a slow but driving (ASURA like) beat began here or at 7:42 I feel, but that would have meant changing the flow of the song. Overall a good song. B
In conclusion, Psylent Buddi's tracks here would comprise one of the most solid albums (double?_ albums ever released for free or not for free (but this is free). Thank you for sharing this with us. It's excellent. This is like the one great Goa album I missed all these years. And now it's available for the first time in 2008. Really smart package. I want to see what type of arsenal this artist will come up with relative to producing a new track. This smart, creative, and other worldly, complex and driving style deserves to be explored and updated.
Favorite tracks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9.
B+
Download below!
As copied off the Music Promotion 2008 thread on this album below.
All tracks stored on one (or possibly more) of Last.fm's undoubtedly many servers. Links galore:
1. Sonorush
2. Lunar Core
3. Moksha
4. Neura
5. Convergent Images
6. Secrets of The Atom
7. Metalucid
8. Retrocede
9. In The Stream
10. Winter Tickle
If the downloads don't work, try visiting the Last.fm album page and download from there. From there you can also preview and stream the tracks to find out whether or not this is worth the time and effort to download.