Syndromeda in Chaos
Syndromeda in Chaos
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(Excerpt from track 'Skudicism')
CD Recordable / 6 tracks / 59.18 mins

As you might have guessed this recording is a joint effort between Syndromeda and CHAOS. Its an interesting combination as Syndromeda tends to produce well composed 'tight' tracks where as CHAOS seem to specialise in - well, chaotic mayhem. Its a very energetic album 'improvised' sounding and a fun listen but the recording quality does leave something to be desired on the first track having a 'bootleg' feel to it. Its a million miles away from the latest Syndromeda album 'The Alien Abduction Phenomenon'.

We get a really nice floating, cosmic beginning to 'Huizen Express'. This then disappears as a ballsy rapid sequence takes over. Lush lead solos flash over the top as we hurtle through the cosmos. The track certainly has power and is an exciting listen finishing with what sounds like a well OTT grungy guitar. Music to accompany Roller-coaster rides! With battered ear drums and a fast beating heart we move on to 'Beyond Conception' which begins with a melodic sequence and a repeated vocal sample (which I could have done without) before really cranking things up as the sequencer lets rip being the main focus until the half way mark where the wailing guitar makes a come back. It is low in the mix but for a short period certainly makes its presence felt. Loved the vocal sample at the end but then that is a matter of taste.There is no let up with 'Jump Gate', which is something of a rock track- crashing drums and axe man guitar compete with a an excellent lead melody- now where did I put my leather jacket?

'Mapping Mariana' has a moody, faintly spaghetti western type feel but then amazingly (in the context of this album) becomes rather tender. Faint distorted voices can be heard then a Morse code sequence starts up along with a rhythm. Another sequence is added and we start to motor again. This track is fantastic (Tangerine Dream sounding at times) and even though it is full of power it is very much kept under control. By the half way mark the sequences are mutating all over the place holding my interest. The lead lines that came in during the ninth minute I found particularly enjoyable . 'Skudicism' starts with faint tinkling effects over which we get Gregorian Chants. OK so its not exactly original but it still works for me. As they disappear we get some great atmospheric pads and as in the previous number we are lulled into a relaxed state before a first rate sequence strikes up with rhythmic accompaniment. 'Banzai' rounds the album off. Initially its gently melodic but at three minutes everything including the kitchen sink is thrown in. heavy drums, manic solos and a whirling gunship of a sequence! If you like subtlety look elsewhere but if you fancy a thrashing good time buy immediately- especially at this price! (DL)

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