Rudy Adrian
Kinetic Flow
OK, so you call yourself a Berlin school fan? Can't get enough of those driving sequencers, a rhythmic hypnotic pulse surrounded by dreamy, rich pads and scintillating synth leads? Well, then step right up to 'Kinetic Flow,' appropriately subtitled 'Sequencer Sketches Vol. 1.' All I can say after first listen is, bring on volume two! New Zealander Rudy Adrian showed a sneak preview of things to come on his more ambient release, 'Twilight,' which featured two very strong upbeat sequencer pieces sandwiched between a lot of mellower fare. This time, though there are great ethereal passages of slow space music, they almost always lead to a heavenly build up of electronic layers that is truly fantastic for any fan of the Teutonic style.

Case in point is 'The Legacy of Luxor,' which starts soft and slow. Beautiful, thick pads are soon joined by a deep pulse, which slowly brightens. Occasional wordless vocals in the distance enhance the proceedings, as the sequencers take centre stage. Bright synths toward the end complete a perfect rendering of Tangerine Dream circa 1980, capturing the essence of that time without blatantly ripping it off.

Though the Berlin school style radiates from the speakers like the return of an old friend, the music somehow breathes new life into this now familiar well-worn genre. The most wonderful crystalline tones open the stunning 19-minute title track. The sounds used seem familiar, and yet fresh and vibrant. A marvellous sequence much in the style of AirSculpture or RMI begins just past the 4:30 mark, and from there it quickly gains momentum. Sounds very reminiscent of TD's 'Tangram' emerge. This track has a few distinct movements. The main sequence fades, allowing atmospherics to float around a bit, then the sequence reemerges, then it fades again. Finally, the tease ends, and the stops are pulled for the finish, intense but not over the top at all. A breathtaking centerpiece to an excellent CD, but only one of many strong points. 'Turquoise' is delicate and playful, sounding almost like a child's wind-up toy, again with the most delightful sounds. 'Le Songe du Singe' is a very spacious 13-minute track, conspicuous by its lack of sequencers on a disc full of them. This only serves to make it stand out as a great space music piece bridging some of the more energetic passages.

I've barely touched on but a few of the many, many high points on this CD. If you like Berlin school, you simply must own this CD. (PD)

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