Radio Massacre International Star Tide

Inspection of the rmi website (www.rmi.dircon.co.uk) will reveal the recording dates of these two pieces to be 21/3/96 and 19/10/93 respectively. Indeed the feature track 'Startide' is one of the earliest pieces rmi ever recorded, and clocking in at a healthy 59:29 it's also one of the longest. However it's 'Monstrous Tides' which opens the album, at 9.30 a mere aperitif, but unusual for the inclusion of a vocal sample (which I believe was the result of a post production accident).

Must confess I'm not convinced of why the boys decided to open with 'Monstrous' as the opening moments of the title track are about as perfect an introduction to a "space music" album as you could ever wish to here. And yes, before I elaborate let me make this clear you won't find a single rhythmic sequence anywhere on this album. This work, as Steve Dinsdale suggests on the sleevenotes, presents "...the sound of space".

The title track does work on so many levels, withstanding conscious scrutiny which will reveal detail and depth aplenty. It is just as effective on the semi-conscious level, whatever substance or circumstance has induced this state. The piece evolves through many phases but always maintains the slow burning agenda.If Eno and Koyannisquatsi are "your thing" then look no further.