Synthetik Precision Movements Play Sample:   56K Dialup   Broadband   Download Sample:   500K   1.5Mb (Excerpt from track(s) 'Precision Movements')

After blasting onto the scene in the early 90's with 'The Mind's Eye' (cassette) and the debut CD 'Technology', Synthetik built up a strong following with a high power blend of synth sequencing and melody. Comparisons with Kraftwerk were drawn and a handful of amazingly professional live appearances cemented Synthetik's credentials. Three further CD albums followed, 'The Mind's Eye' (re-release) and 'Abstract' together with an extended re-release of 'Technology'. The high-energy formula continued throughout but then all went quiet on the Synthetik front. Until now that is. Kevin Bate aka Synthetik has emerged from deepest Cornwall almost a decade after his last sighting.

I believe a whole new arsenal of equipment has been used on this new album and if Kevin's previous works are anything to go by it will have been a long time in the making to get the sort of "precision" he demands. So after all this time and with a new plethora of technology to work with you might expect this to be a departure from his previous style! I did, but I could not be more wrong. Kevin must have been in cryogenic freeze or something because this album continues where 'Abstract' left off almost without missing a heartbeat.

High-energy sequencing and in-yer-face dance rhythms abound in this 160bpm speed fest. After the brief introductory opener, which leaves you in no doubt as to the title of the album, 'Auto East' explodes onto the scene. I must admit, while listening to this track I simply can't get the vision of Cossack dancers out of my head for some reason. But it's got all the credentials you want from a high-energy sequence romp with stabby percussives which dart around the room. 'The Art of Communication' has a great melody and in common with this album as a whole it's a grower. Kevin has not shied away from the liberal use of voice samples both robotic and normal. I can imagine some saying this sounds dated, but I haven't heard such an approach for so long I actually think it sounds refreshing. Sinclair C5s and Spherical TVs will be in the shops next! ;-)

'Ad Infinitum' lowers the bpm slightly and the rhythm is adorned with a more orchestral palette of sounds. Again it sounds very 90's to me but being a fan of 70's retro it would be churlish of me to say this was an issue. If anything I'd rather listen to a band playing to their strengths rather than trying new and radical things just for the sake of it. The adrenalin returns for 'Alles Klar', my favourite piece so far as the luscious pads intertwine with the choppy structure. And again it's unmistakable Synthetik, it could literally be from any of his previous albums. The sound of a modem opens 'Virtual Faces', we then "connect" to this track in a frenzy of Kraftwerkish electronic beats. Top stuff!

'Digital World' has a lighter but no less effective air, and genetically the similarity to some of his previous works may be a too close for some. Must admit I revel in it though, bring it on and 'All Time is Cyclical' does exactly that. Monster rhythms and electronic detail, choir pads thrown in for good measure. The title track follows and confirms that this album gets stronger as it progresses. A fantastic dance-sequence fest with a scorching melody. Synthetik at its best. More orchestral pads, the like of which I haven't heard in quite a while, open 'Time Piece' which soon winds up into another fine synth-lead dominated piece. Finally a sample-and-hold intro heralds 'Measured Exposure' which is the only piece to feature overt vocals - and what a totally fantastic track this is. Anyone into 80's electro pop will find it totally mind blowing.