Tangerine Dream
TimeSquare (Dream Mixes 2)
‘TimeSquare’ was first made available on the last TDream tour, along with the ‘Ambient Monkeys’ album. It was not released generally however, until now - which is a relief because of all the TD albums reviewed in this issue perhaps it’s this one which stands out from the crowd. The ‘Dream Mixes’ concept has done TD no harm whatsoever in rubber-stamping their ability to turn their hand to virtually any form of instrumental electronica. ‘Dream Mixes 2’ takes charge of the baton with equivalent expertise and serves up a collection of high power projectiles which rarely loosen their grip.

‘Mobocaster’ opens in sparkling form with super charged bpm, complex rhythms, shuffling beats and a well constructed lead riff which punctuates the track in just the right places. Less frenetic interludes add balance and overall it’s a choice (though in many ways formula) outing. ‘Jungle Jacula’ starts with sweeping pads then the beat restarts. Driving rhythmics are then offset by wailing samples and the palette is pitched to impart an African feel which is largely successful. The track is punctuated with changes in style and pace, a technique used regularly and it serves to keep the listening experience a rewarding one. Initially the beat on ‘Towards the Evening Star’ is a more open chugging affair, but it soon gains momentum and the track develops into a polished slab of synth interplay with detailed rhythmical counterpoint. ‘Digital Sister’ is a fascinating track. It has a fabulously complex and frenzied beat which mandates sequences-on-speed. Again it shapeshifts with regularity, demanding much aural re-focussing however the payback is a handsome one. ‘Pixel Pirates’ contains some blistering sequenced sections which are picked out on a variety of choice vox. Melodics are infused through the piece, rather than being layered on top, and it ensures that the rhythmic angle largely dominates. Serene samples fleetingly add texture before formula bird effects bring the piece to a close.

‘Culpa Levis’ builds deliberately on staccato synths and a leisurely beat. The track gradually increases in complexity and careful focussing reveals a beautiful array of classic sounding sequencing. The Eastern style samples which occasionally punctuate don’t do much for me, however they are few and far between and the repetitive sequential nature of this track does bring to mind works such as ‘Hyperborea’. For me this is the most immediately appealing piece on the album, though the excellent title track which closes does run it very close. Again superb sequencing is high on the agenda and some truly majestic melodic themes really do create a track to savour.

This is a poised and coherent gathering of modern synth works which should keep TD’s army of fans more than happy. If you buy any of the bunch, buy this one. (GG)

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