Pete Namlook & H.I.A. S.H.A.D.O. 2

Strange sonic hisses, twangs and bleeps are all important elements at the beginning of ‘Countless’. Structure is provided by a stuttering deep bass beat. A vocal sample goes on about the ingredients that go up to make the human mind, memories consciousness etc- you get the picture. A third of the way in we move into an effective atmospheric section. An odd ping pong sequence is used as is the chime of a small gong. A more melodic sequence is added over the top.and from here on in the track becomes more tuneful and accessible. Back comes the sample, fitting easily amongst the rhythms and sequence. ‘Inner Sense’ provides more stuttering rhythms and great stereo effects. This is a very effective number, the rhythms are spot on, they certainly got me moving to them (note moving- not dancing). Some of the sounds used both in the background and as part of the beats themselves aren’t unique for a Namlook related release but they are combined together in just the right measure here. Splendid track. A tranquil and, for a HIA related album, rather melodic beginning to ‘Begend’. More vocal samples educate us about the nature of man then the main rhythm kicks in. The track has a slow and rather mysterious feel, the beats being made up of a combination of deep bass thuds and lighter ‘squelches’ (for want of a much better term). Throughout the track you get the feeling of a journey, or could that be evolution- constant movement. The rhythms strip right down only to be replaced by a different beat and haunting synth pads. When the melody comes in that is first rate as well.

‘UFO Detection System’ uses a buzz similar to the sort of thing musicians try and get rid of during a sound check. It changes between various frequencies and that’s the track for you. Oh well three out of four good tracks ain’t bad and at least this is the shortest number on the album. (DL)

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