Brainwork Sensual Reflections

Brainwork's 6th studio album (7th including 'Live & Unreleased') is described as a return to "keymotional music". Conceptually it is advertised as a continuation of 'Melody & Ambience', though it's not obvious. However, it is undoubtedly a slight change of style with Uwe Saher striving for a moodier approach. 'Spirit Rain' features plenty of tribal Indian wailing and is obviously a nod towards 'Sacred Spirit' territory. The strangely titled 'Wideness' breezes in on chunky sequencing and offers strident piano work and synth pastiches. Simple and safe yet still appealing. 'Dreaming China' has the expected eastern references, but the almost reggae-like sequencing is a surprise and works beautifully especially with the lush string pads. 'Red Moon' is a poignant piano affair with classical overtones, while 'Thrill Zone' hits the spot with a measured beat and well crafted melody. Sampled voice completes the equation. Synthesised acoustic guitar picks out the theme for 'Mediterranean Theme' which builds in complexity attaining quite a grandiose scale. 'Waterfalls' opens with delicate electronic oscillations before the main sequence kicks in, and again a satisfying piece is developed with quite deceptive ease. 'Fairy Flight' is based on a pumping rhythm which really kicks, while 'Ice Forest' strives more for drama with anthemic motifs. Must admit on first hearing this I wasn't overly impressed - "Brainwork on sedatives" would be a fair description. But after a few listens the effortless manner with which Uwe Saher can construct no-nonsense EM cuts of some stature won me over. Earth-shattering, no. Stylish, yes. (GG)

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