Robert de Fresnes Atlantis...?

I was quite surprised to see this album already in the smd top twenty before the review appeared. It’s expected that the likes of Redshift, Ashra and Edgar Froese do likewise, but Robert de Fresnes is a new name on the scene. Presumably the word must have got ‘round that this was an album worth investigating. After listening to it a few times I fully concur with this view. This album simply oozes class. From the first moments of the opening title track it’s clear that the music has been carefully crafted and polished. The style is primarily laid back and offers sophisticated themes and poised rhythmics. Ethereal vocal effects on some tracks evoke imagery of mythical Gods and civilisations. I’m unsure of Robert de Fresnes’ nationality, but if he’s not from the US he’s certainly portrays EM in the American style. Take ‘Discovery’ for example - it could easily be penned from the armoury of David Arkenstone or Peter Buffet. A superb melody is picked out on synths and piano, backed by professional rhythms and sequences. Yes, it’s “feelgood” but it’s in no way superficial. Ethereal voices and effects open ‘Poseidia (the sirens call)’ to be joined by a chugging beat. Aquatic atmospherics are never far away and in places it brings to mind Howard J Davidson’s ‘Discoveries Underwater’. The ‘Dolphin’ effects on the next track are impressive indeed and the drifting nature of the piece is judged to perfection. ‘Kimmeriou’ opens with syncopating pieces and develops via Bekki Williams style motifs and guitar detail. ‘Alcinous' contains a beautiful piano led theme, while ‘Visions from the Past’ airs a fairly lightweight flute led melody. ‘Gateway to the Gods’ contains some monastic chanting elements and ethereal vocals. The tempo is then lifted with robust percussion and sequenced piano. ‘Requiem’ brings the pace back down with solitary piano and gossamer effects. Restrained choir atmospherics are cleverly introduced and it underlines the strength of the ambient pieces on this album. Finally there is ‘Dolphin Reprise’ which develops on the piece introduced earlier. If you enjoy US style synthesiser music, polished to a high gloss and presented in meticulous fashion then this is for you. Yes, you won’t find much of a challenge here but not all albums can break new ground. Instead this album exudes comforting familiarity and I’m sure those who have already helped this album into the smd charts are not disappointed by what they hear. (GG)

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