Cheiron Phantasma

The first CD I can remember where I can't actually tell you any of the track titles. The sleevenotes are in German and are scrawled in thick felt pen over a background of colourful child-like drawings. I can't see a track listing anywhere though. Track 1 opens with a child's cry and a clanging bell. Some Robert Fox style background touches and synth swathes build momentum before a sequence starts up at the 3 minute mark. It's a well constructed sequence too, pitched low with plenty of weight, almost in Ron Boots mode. A wispy lead makes a fleeting appearance, then the sequence is stripped down at the 5 minute mark before regaining structure aided by a drum beat. Unfortunately the track has by now lost its way somewhat. The early promise and robust rhythmics have been replaced by a lightweight backing and fairly twee melodics. Synth stabs and denser pads attempt to put things right, and there are some clever interludes of sequential trickery, but it's hard to not feel disappointed because there was real potential in the opening minutes. Track 2 is a thoughtful piece which builds on a simple theme to produce a lush symphonic outing whose clever repetitive motifs produce an outing of infectious qualities. Track 3 is an uptempo outing with a Russian feel running through it. A well constructed melody brings to mind Waveform at times. Track 4 is not overly dissimilar with stirring anthemic themes built around a bustling rhythm and again that clanging bell. The remaining tracks keep up the robust nature. Some reasonable sections, but nothing out of the ordinary. A lot of effort has been put into this but without that undefinable spark it doesn't excite. (GG)

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