N:Force Realtime Illusion

Here we have Norman Friedenberger again, this time under the guise of N:Force (alter-ego’s of one type or another seem to becoming popular!) The reasoning here is that N:Force is the vehicle for more uptempo excursions, bordering on dance territory. ‘An Afternoon on CyberBeach’ opens with a mid paced beat, busy sequencing and subtle motifs which are pitched at just about the right level. It’s an encouraging start which is reinforced by ‘Destination SpaceVault’. The track opens with a countdown, followed by NASA samples which overlay a drifting section with a quirky motif which after a few listens really gets into your head. Soon uptempo dance rhythms take centre stage, ably supported by silken pads and bass sequences. ‘SunSeeker’s Dream’ pumps up the jam with “hip” electronic pulsations. Themes are kept to a minimum leaving the beat to dominate. ‘OverStimulated’ is a short but entertaining outing with more power-house rhythms and blistering detail. ‘Elaborate Temptation’ is more of a chugger with piano themes and excellent syncopating synths. ‘Stranger in a Strange Land’ serves up more busy sequencing and rhythmics, while ‘Riding the Nautilus’ maintains the pace with enthusiastic bass beat and plenty of detailed electronics and motifs. ‘Interference 19’ is a bright and well constructed piece of uptempo synth work with strong melodies and a well chosen set of voices, and the elements are further developed on ‘Ethereal’ and ‘The Abyss of Evanescence’ which both ooze confidence and sophistication. ‘Private Atlantis’ brings the album to a close in epic fashion with just over 3 minutes of top notch noises and ethereal synth chords. Initially this album impressed but somehow it washed over me. Closer scrutiny has unearthed its true potential and not many who buy this will be disappointed. (GG)

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