Robert Rich Music from Atlas Dei (CD) CD / 13 tracks / 66.24 mins Play Sample:   56K Dialup   Broadband Download Sample:   500K   1.5Mb (Excerpt from track(s) 'Mythos')

'Glint in Her Eyes' comes from 'Echo of Small Things'. The deepest drone on the album so far is punctuated by faint bell tree type sounds. Ethereal pads float from the speakers providing a nice contrast but there are also strange slithering sounds that retain the edginess from earlier, keeping us on our toes. We float straight into 'Night Spinning Inward' on watery effects though the dronal backing stays fairly constant. Half heard distorted vocals can be made out enhancing the feeling of menace, as do synthetic moaning effects. We make a smooth transition into 'Poppy Fields' which is a remix from 'Electric Ladder'. A delicate bassoon lead line provides a little softness with added interest coming in the form of a skipping percussive sequence. 'Deconstructions' begins with deep windy effects and faint crashes. It is as if a storm is raging, becoming more violent by the moment. Things grow increasingly metallic and aggressive. The mood softens considerably for 'Symbolics' (another piece recorded especially for this project) as a soothing flute drifts through the air. The backing is still rather 'breathy' but this is a gentle breeze compared to the raging hurricane from before. A slow drumbeat starts up but the flute remains the main focus. 'Liquid Air' was originally from 'Below Zero' but is now remastered with additions. Wailing sirens combine with gentle water droplet type notes and a menacing drone. It's all rather ominous.

'The Core' was also created for 'Atlas Dei'. This is all rather calm and relaxing with faintly vocal sounding pads. Bright warbling shimmers act like sunlight shining off water. Intensity builds but this is of a more optimistic even euphoric nature. The positive vibes increase still further with the introduction of a sequence which then seems to spiral out of control finishing in a sort of Dr Who Tardis sound! 'Never Alone' is a remix from 'Electric Ladder'. It's all rather calm and tinkling, mixing whale type sounds with those of strange slithering creatures. 'Minaret (Layered)' has a very similar feel to the previous number and if anything is even more chilled. 'Terra Meta' was also written especially for this project and is one of my favourite tracks on the album. We are again taken back to sequencer driven territory, the pulsations mixing beautifully with more exquisite flute playing. By the context of Robert's other works this is fairly energetic stuff, full of joy and positive vibes. A lovely way to finish.