Ancient Technology Cult Transfiguration Play: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi   Download: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi (Excerpt from track 'New World Rising')

Here we have the second album by ATC and like the first it is just a progression of the path being trod by Jim Kirkwood's previous Lucifaere project. After the short but virtually compulsory atmospheric beginning 'Stormcrow' gets into full swing with a rapid machine gun sequence and superb laser fire crashes of sound. The melody doesn't form the main feature but is superb all the same. Another melodic sequence is added after the half way mark but things generally calm down and we are given a short breather before returning to full power then a gentle finish.

'Transfiguration Pt 1' begins with swamp noises then a very Tangerine Dream type melody (similar to something on 'Stratosphere' I think it was). Animal noises can be heard coming out of a thick fog. The mist clears and a brace of fast bouncing sequences surge forth accompanied by some excellent rhythm programming. The mood has now changed to one of syncopated restrained energy. We get into an hypnotic groove. The TD'ish melody returns then another typical Kirkwood one joins it before the pattern changes markedly. A fresh sequence enters along with hellish effects taking us to a menacing conclusion. 'Angelos' growls into life accompanied by clashing metallic effects, Gothic chants and chiming church bells. The menacing feeling from the end of the previous track is initially greatly enhanced but then the mood lightens as a high register sequence comes in, there is still that slightly sinister edge to it however. Heavier notes stab over the top and a bass sequence falls into a pattern beside the first. We motor along nicely, the track taking many a twist and turn along the way from relaxed passages to the more upbeat, effects added at just the right times to heighten the atmosphere. Eight minutes in we get a gorgeous shimmering ethereal lead line and a heavier rhythm hinting at restrained power. The lead line comes back afresh accompanied by new sequences and things really start to cook but just before it works up to a frenzy we step back from the brink and end tranquilly.

'Transfiguration Pt 2' is a piece of epic proportions. It begins with dark drones, wordless vocals accompany them . Images of the three witches from Macbeth come to mind- desolate landscapes- mystical ceremonies- that sort of thing. The pads start to take on something of symphonic feel. The lead line though synthetic has something of a vocal quality to it and almost sings over the top. Its all very beautiful but at the same time moody stuff. At the twelve minute mark things take a turn towards the darker side- various wordless vocal samples communicate with each other then a twangy sequence starts up. Another popcorn type one joins it lightening the mood somewhat. 'New World Rising' has a slow plodding rhythmic beginning then two lead lines come in, one heavily distorted but in contrast the other is razor sharp. The impression is of a massive machine rolling slowly across a landscape crushing everything in its path. A much quicker and brighter sequence comes in accompanied by the sharper of the two lead lines, the impression now is of lightness and speed. In utter contrast to both moods a flute melody can be heard giving a track which has already had so many points of focus yet more interest.