Detlef Keller Masquerade

Though advertised as 7 pieces, ‘Masquerade’ is actually 3 primary cuts which range between 13 and 20 minutes in length, leaving the other 4 pieces to act as bridging sections.

There is absolutely no doubt that Detlef Keller can produce some remarkable sonic outings. When he clicks the music soars with the best, however I do tend to find his music patchy at times and unfortunately ‘Masquerade’ is no different. The production work is fantastic - it all sounds so lush and dynamic - however the dynamism does not extend to the music. ‘Entree’ presents an inoffensive melody but it is nothing special and certainly doesn’t deserve 13½ minutes on the podium. ‘Pause’ is better with some very “native” sounding rhythms which gives it an edge but at 17+ minutes it does take a bit of sticking with. ‘Ende’ is the longest piece at a touch over 20 minutes and for me is the most successful outing. 8 or so minutes of chunky sequencing gives way to careful synphonics and synth detail. The spark is still lacking though, and overall this album doesn’t trouble ‘Story of the Clouds’ or ‘‘Ways to the Rainbow’ as his finest outings to date. (GG)

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