Wahnfried Drums 'n Balls

The packaging here is excellent, with some wonderful graphics and superb attention to detail such as the back of the booklet blending with the graphics beneath the clear CD tray - a very effective touch. Schulze is in playful mood here and the main aspect which struck me when listening to this were the dynamics. Production is absolutely top notch, with every snare, bass and timpani screaming from the soundstage. The title track is a 15 minute loosener, tackled with some panache. The samples may be a tad “off the wall” for some, however the open approach and the combination of jazz-like refrains and laid back percussion is intriguing. ‘Percussy’ continues with the same feel but wispy synth pads supplement the sound skilfully. Sequentially the approach is organic in nature with wispy pulsations a constant backdrop. ‘House of India’ turns up the electronic dial with a searing opening, followed by Indian singing and trademark voices. Oscillating sequences then emerge as the lead lines become busier and overall the sound here is fuller and more EM based. Finally ‘Bass of Orion’ opens like the soundtrack from ‘1492’ with medieval overtones. Fretless bass detail then merges with more freeform percussives. This is quite a difficult one to sum up. Is this Schulze in imperious form, or is he just going through the motions? At some points my attention starts to drift, then a bass drum explodes and you just can’t help but gasp at the power. Cutting edge or over the edge - perhaps only you can decide. (GG)

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