Futureworld Orchesta The Hidden Files

The opener 'Games' kick in with an Oxygene style beat before a bright, almost anthemic, theme takes centre stage. 'Running Water' continues the uptempo and optimistic mode and the breathy synth vox does take me back to the early 90's with Michael Shipway particularly to mind. But even at this early stage the album does have its own individual style and 'Running Water' is a fine example of this which fans of mainstream, melodic EM will find irresistible.

'Devining Rod' opens with a hint of typical Euro dance-floor stomper. But fear not, instead of the ubiquitous dance beat opening up, the track adopts a more thoughtful approach. Yes, a persistent beat features but it's well presented and decorated with some tasty motifs picked out on a variety of vox. Again, the choice of synth voices is very contemporary of 5 or 10 years again, and a closer read of the sleevenotes reveals that this is indeed a collection of pieces penned between 1990 and 1999. And with 'Solar Eclipse' it's clear that Robert had just listened to one Enya and Vangelis and has melded the two styles delightfully.

'The Beagle' adopts a more symphonic and thoughtful stance and, though not without merit, somehow doesn't gel as well. Likewise 'The Jungle' doesn't do much for me either, perhaps it's a bit too close to Jarre in his dodgy 'Rendezvous'/'Revolutions' era. But, it's not that much of a problem because this album has 14 tracks to choose from and quality is not too far away. 'The Galaxy' is a beautiful and thoughtful interlude which may be a bit lightweight for some, but for others will be a highlight.

Possibly my favorite is 'Cricket's Theme', the longest cut at 7:39. Nothing startlingly new, and in many ways it's one of those pieces which sounds familiar on first listen. It may indicate it could wear thin at an early stage, but for now the anthemic stance and infectious hook are a highlight - and the closing minutes could be a Genesis classic, with touches of Steve Hackett as well as Mr Banks evident. It's the type of piece you think should close the album, but there are two tracks which follow. 'Atmosphere' is the most "off the wall" piece, with an edgy beat and simplistic motifs which work well. Finally 'Mountains' is decent enough without being startling.