Robert Rich Numena & Geometry

These two long lost Robert Rich classics are available again but this time as a double CD package at a single CD price! Not only this but as we have made the set club choice you can buy them for £10.95! If you have not heard Robert's music before then this is an ideal place to start. The opening twenty five minute piece on the first CD starts off conjuring up an image of a steamy jungle. A rapid but light tinkling sequence then joins the picture constantly mutating along with the ever shimmering synth chords. At about the half way mark the sequence fades away and the atmospherics are briefly given space to create more visions before a slower and very different sequence takes over and the atmospherics in the back ground become more cosmic, reminding me more of solar flares than deep space, absolutely amazing. The next track acts as a bit of bridging piece and makes use of metallic rhythm. We then get 'Numen', a deep drone builds and dripping water can be heard in the background. This subterranean nightmare grows and an ominous uneven rhythm, which could even be some large wooden door blowing on its hinges in a ghostly wind, makes its presence felt and the drones build still further. This might be a bit much for some people at first but those that already know and love Robert's music will be in heaven, or is that hell? The final track on the first CD introduces a deep flute sound over drones. The second CD 'Geometry' begins with 'Primes Parts 1 &2' consisting of a bright ethnic rhythm and a high pitched organ lead line, not my favourite track, skip to 'Interlocking Circles'. This has a very gentle and laid back start, then a lovely sequence, relatively low in the mix, adds to the feel of complete serenity. Another sequence weaves its way into the mix before fighting its way to the surface. Next up we have a track that takes us well out of the solar system. As far as dark space music is concerned this is first class. Next we move into orbit over a cold planet with a shimmering flute making it sound as though we are just skimming the atmosphere, again very eerie stuff. 'Geomancy' takes us into even darker realms before an ethnic rhythm grabs centre stage and the sound of a flute weaves its way round the beat. We now move on to 'Amirta (Water of Life)' consisting of drone over drone, this adds to the overall feel of the album without really getting anywhere. Finally we have 'Logos' (no not that track!), initial atmospherics lead us into a strong sequence, a flute weaves patterns around it and another sequence is added for good measure. In conclusion please don't buy this CD if you are expecting something that sounds 'retro' or if you like your music to progress at 100 miles an hour. If however you like space music with a tinge of ethnic rhythm and have enjoyed much of the Hearts of Space or Fathom catalogue in the past then this double CD is a must, particularly at the price. (DL)

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