After slaving over a hot Jupiter 6 for more than two years, Dave Barker has finally released the follow up to the much acclaimed 'Shrine'. The phrase "ambient / electronic crossover" is quite widely used nowadays when describing some of the more recent artists to appear on the scene, and indeed when the music combines the most appealing elements of both the resultant mix can only be a winner. For me though, 'Shrine' stood at the top of the "crossover" podium showing in spectacular fashion what modern techniques and rhythms could do to traditional electronic timbres. Of course the only problem with getting it so right first time is that the follow up needs to be something very special indeed. Enter 'Trikuti'....
'Communion' opens the album and is very much an exercise in gathering momentum and setting the scene, with thought provoking samples set against an undulating background. Soon mesmeric sequences start to flow, heralding the start of track 2 'Signals'. Then the bass laden beat kicks in and the track really builds up a head of steam. Play loud and proud because this music demands headroom to be fully appreciated. The drum lines batter against waves of sequencer lines which adopt pincer formations as they bounce around the soundstage. No time for breath as 'Union of Knowledge' takes off. Complex polyrhythms twist into the pulsating beat producing an emphatic piece of electro-acoustic dynamite which is charged with a wicked high register riff. 'Re-Embodiment' slows the pace slightly, adopting a confident stance and bombarding the listener with all manner of effects and electronic stabs, held together with another great leadline set against undulating pads. 'DNA Ritual' turns the heat up even more with killer sequences, resplendent with trademark swept filters, and silken melody lines which contrast starkly with the bass beat and stabbing hi hats. "There's Life Out There" proclaims Roy Schneider. If he'd have been listening to 'Trikuti' I'm not sure he'd have even noticed because so engrossing and beguiling is the title track that it blots out all distraction and demands attention. And 'Unbeliever' rounds the album off with more irresistible and infectious rhythms and sequences, immaculately executed to the finish.
This is hip, kickin', stompin' and smokin' EM from start to finish. The old "anorak" adages are left trampled underfoot in an orgy of cutting edge coolness. The Ice Man cometh, and his name is Dave Barker. (GG)
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