Ian Boddy Slide CD / 9 Tracks / 56.21 mins

Gently chiming gongs give 'The Probability of Doubt' a rather Eastern feel. Metallic shimmers and percussion enhance the ethnic flavour, as does a haunting lead. It seems that working with Robert Rich has had an influence on Ian, as there is a definite feel of American Ambient about it. 'Lost and Found' is initially decidedly spooky, theremin type sounds abound. An infectious groove strikes up, delicate lead hopping amongst the beats. There is a lovely melodic interlude then the rhythms return before we end with more spooky effects. The title track has a wonderful cracking rhythm but it is the sublime slow haunting lead line that got my attention most. The rhythm changes and we are soon belting along. The pace slows again as ethereal wordless vocal colouring combines with that stunning lead line from earlier. What a fantastic track. 'Tourmaline' sees Ian cranking up the sequencer as we chug along nicely. It really packs a punch and in many ways sounds like a track Ian could have included on 'The Uncertainty Principle'. 'A Moment of Gliss' is a short atmospheric piece but the sounds used are exquisite. It's like walking on a deserted moonlit beach. 'Yesterdays Memories' returns to sequences but it also has a contemporary feel as well, the combination of old and new going to create a real body mover. I found it impossible to keep my feet still. 'Mechamystical' has a bass line cutting through crashing effects. There is a cracking lead that would be great for air keyboard playing; I just wish it could have been higher in the mix. More haunting effects weave amongst the pulsations. 'Troubadour' returns to groove territory and is full of energy. On 'The Possibility of Existence' shimmering tones ring out and slowly fade, mixing with each other as they do so. These tones solidify into a subtle melody backed by sympathetic pads creating a feeling of sadness. Ian explores a lot of different styles on this album but as usual there is not one dud amongst the nine tracks. (DL)

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