Colin Rayment Twenty4 Play: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi   Download: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi (Excerpt from track 'New Territories (The 10:24)')

We begin with the longest track on the album 'Canton View'. A steady rhythm appears out of metallic shimmers then a lovely three note melody glides to the surface as the pace quickens. The foundations won't be shaken but it should get your head nodding to the beat and fingers moving in time to the lead lines. Its all very pleasant with many a twist and turn during its fifteen minute duration. Even though Colin comes from the UK this reminded me of much of the music that came out of and was popular in mainland Europe during the 90s, mainly on Cue or IC where the emphasis was on melody, the tracks being pleasantly rhythmic but mid paced rather than letting rip. These days the trends tend to have gone towards ambient, retro or upbeat stormers so in many ways this CD is filling something of a gap in the market.

'Daybreak' features a bright sequence / rhythm combination. A slow tranquil melody is created through overlaid pads like the rays of the sun shining through low cloud. An acoustic guitar lead gets 'Berlin 48' underway. Its rather laid back and as with every track by this artist extremely pleasant. The pace quickens slightly and now the lead is taken by flutey synth. It has a feel similar to something by GENE but with slightly more oomph. 'New Territories / The 10:24' is the most upbeat number so far, a tuneful sequence positively bouncing along accompanied by a chugging beat. There is a more tranquil middle section then another sequence is added, the original one initially subsiding in the mix only to come back in waves. It was an enjoyable track but I felt it just needed that little extra hook. 'Meteora' has a similar feel to its predecessor, subtle melodies wafting from the speakers. In one way you could say its rather uncluttered which in many ways is a good thing but from time to time I could have done with a little more happening.

'Repose' has a lovely balance between rhythm and melodic loop. Its very laid back and soothing- good music to take on holiday to listen to on the beach or by the pool. 'Time Lapse' has a rather moody melancholy beginning. The pads are slow and rather dark but then a bright sequence bursts through like sunlight reflecting in the ripples of a lake. The mood becomes more positive but still with that moody edge. The pace quickens again, added detail being provided by a subtle acoustic guitar melody. The album finishes with 'Transient'. Unfortunately it isn't my favourite cut here as the various elements didn't seem to go together as well as the rest of the album.