Alpha Wave Movement
Drifted Into Deeper Lands
It's good to see another AWM release. Gregory T. Kyryluk's previous mesmeric releases have all been chill-out masterpieces with a subtle rhythmic air. 'Drifted' is no exception to this approach, and if anything the chill factor is increased.

The opening (and longest at 13:58) title track , for me, is very much the feature piece of the album. The drifting opening is magnificent, and the subtle sequencing which emerges at the 5 minute mark is just so right. Subtle motifs and themes play with the rhythmic undertones, as the focus switches between structure and freeform. At 7 minutes a percussive edge appears, further enhancing the piece. One slightly strange aspect worth mentioning is the background "buzz" which can be faintly heard through much of the piece. I'm fairly certain this is very much intentional, a gossamer electronic backcloth to the main elements of the piece. Some people may find it slightly distracting however, though it does die out around the 10 minute mark as the sequencing finds a new edge and carries the piece to an impressive climax.

'Silent Promise' sets the tone for much of the remaining album. The opening 3 minutes are a spaced out, relaxing delight. A slow rhythm then emerges, with a fairly optimistic stance considering the moody approach and overall it slight reminded me of Patrick O'Hearn. 'Awakening the Sand Spirits' opens in edgy fashion, with a choppy rhythm accompanying menacing electronic detail. The synth refrains during the middle section are wonderful, this is EM to get seriously immersed in. It's a real grower.

'That Which Remains' again charts the weirder end of the spectrum, however this is the sort of "weird" I like. There's always just enough recognisable EM elements to keep things gelled together. 'Another Time... Another Place' is another superb outing, almost outshining the opener with a subtle sequence and deft synth refrains. And again the synth effects add a weird, abstract edge which gives a bitter-sweet experience. Finally 'Suspended in the Hanging Gardens' is a chill-out tour-de-force. Lights out and drift. Overall this is the most subtle and "spaced out" of the AWM releases so far. The quality still shines through however. Expect to be caressed and cajoled, and you won't be disappointed. (GG)

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