Karl Weaver Transmorphia Play: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi   Download: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi (Excerpt from track '81')

A dance beat powers out right from the first moment of the opener, 'Control'. An excellent melodic hook then joins it along with more rhythmic flourishes. The lead line changes throughout so you will never get bored. There are more ideas on this one track than on a whole collection of other 'typical' dance related albums. Additional little melodic motifs play supporting roles. Staying still to it is simply impossible, just let yourself go with the flow- it's so catchy! That pretty much sums up the album actually. It's all very easy to get on with.

'Monotons' uses another infectious rhythm and melodic loop combination. More lead lines come in. The beat departs from time to time to give us a break, allowing further melodies space to be heard. The most obvious example being in the fifth minute as things are completely stripped down only to return to full power for the close. 'My Url' has a curious start with a vocal sample then it's straight back into a powerful rhythm and even more excellent lead lines. Tinkling little sequences are also given space to shine as the foot is temporarily lifted from the accelerator. It's these changes in pace which are one of the album's strong points. There is also humour, the vocal sample 'all you need to do is relax and it won't hurt a bit' for instance!

'The Right Man' begins with a rapid, loud sequence to which an equally energetic beat is added. Little melodic detail low in the mix gives it a curious feel. Actually I'm reminded a little of TD's 'Diamond Diary' (I think - one of the most powerful tracks from 'Thief' anyway). The pace is increased still further as we get closer to the end. I thought it was leading to an explosion but no, the track takes on a slightly different character then we fade out. More bouncing sequences and loops form an enjoyable start to '81'. This is probably the least dance orientated track so far but it will still get the feet moving. What's more the lead line is one of the most infectious on the CD and as this is one of Karl's strong points (amongst many) that is really saying something. As usual there are many a twist and turn throughout. 'Slash' is back to dance beats but this time part of the melody is provided through soft pads creating an appealing contrast. When a more conventional staccato melody is brought in however it is just as effective- the hook being wonderful. I would have cut the running time by a couple of minutes though. '002' uses an excellent percussive distorted electric piano lead line / loop over the accompanying beat. Again melodic pads come in providing a little softness.