Pyramid Peak - Kontinuum

Artists: Axess
P: 2024
RESURRECTION – A brandnew album release by AXESS!
The question of what happens when a person dies has intrigued humanity for centuries, touching on beliefs that range from spiritual to scientific. Different cultures and religions offer various interpretations, leading to a rich tapestry of ideas about the afterlife.
For many religious traditions, death is not seen as the end but rather a transition. In Christianity, for example, there is a belief in the immortality of the soul and the possibility of resurrection. According to Christian doctrine, the soul is eternal and will be judged after death, leading to Heaven, Hell, or Purgatory based on one’s faith and actions while alive. Similarly, Islam teaches of an afterlife where individuals are accountable for their deeds, with rewards or punishments awaiting them.
In Hinduism and Buddhism, the concepts of reincarnation and karma play significant roles. Followers believe in a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, where one’s actions in previous lives influence their current life and future incarnations. This cycle continues until one achieves enlightenment and liberation (moksha or nirvana), breaking free from the cycle of rebirth.
On the other hand, some philosophical and scientific perspectives view death as the definitive end of consciousness. From this viewpoint, once the biological functions of the body cease, so does awareness and existence. This materialist perspective emphasizes the importance of the present life, urging individuals to make the most of their time on Earth.
At the intersection of these diverse beliefs are themes of legacy and memory. Many people find solace in the idea that while physical existence may come to an end, the impact one makes on others and the world can endure through memories, teachings, and the contributions left behind.
Ultimately, the nature of existence after death remains one of humanity’s greatest mysteries. Whether one believes in an immortal soul, resurrection, reincarnation, or a final cessation of being, these beliefs shape how individuals live their lives and confront the inevitability of their mortality. Each perspective invites a deeper exploration of purpose, meaning, and the profound connections we share with one another throughout life.
My latest CD “RESURRECTION” is a hommage to my wife Irina, which passed away much too early in Summer this year. She was a very religous person with a strong believe in God and a life after death.

Axel

Artist: Jon Anderson
P: 1975
This is an album where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. It holds together beautifully and can be a very uplifting experience. The lyrics also deserve a mention. Jon Anderson has created a story in which there is no interpersonal conflict and yet has a hero. While this may seem to be a yawnworthy concept based on hippy idealism.
This is a must have for any Yes fan, but beware. While Jon Anderson's other albums do have their good moments, none come anywhere near this in terms of quality.
 

Artists: Project Andrew Rotten
P: 2005
Andreas is the second member of Pyramid Peak to go solo, the first being Axel Stupplich who records under the name Axess. Both artists will probably not like me saying this but to me this could so well have been solo Axess (from his first two albums) on the purely electronic numbers and Axess and Maxxess on those including guitar. Whatever, this is a fantastic album so please don't let little things like the name it is recorded under put you off. The title track gets things underway and initially it has a rather ominous feel. Echoing tones, some bright and others heavy bass, fade into the distance. Things turn quite melancholy then a slow rhythm starts up along with moody lead line. It all had a rather early eighties Tangerine Dream sound to me. A second lead, this time a real scorcher, increased the excitement so much it got my hand playing air keyboard. It gets even better with the introduction of a sequence, firing the second lead up once again to even more devastating effect than before. A superb way to open the album. 'Sharp Sequencer' lives up to its name by wasting no time in cranking up one of the said beasties immediately, some lovely wailing guitar giving extra bite. The guitar then seems to develop dual roles, one providing rhythm whilst the other provides awesome lead lines. This is so exciting! Guitar and electronics in perfect harmony. Absolutely stunning stuff.
'Again and Again' has quite a dramatic start with hissing effects before settling down to soft mellow pads. Things really kick in the second minute as a wonderful sequence and rhythm combination take centre stage. A wandering lead line gives a contrasting dreamy feel. The sequence morphs and becomes even faster increasing the excitement level still further. In the sixth minute it is all change with a new sequence and rhythm keeping things fresh for a final syncopated blast. 'Depression' is appropriately melancholy, slow rhythms and sequences providing a lovely moody atmos. A guitar enters in the second minute, growling low in the mix as a synth lead pulls at the heartstrings. Yet another superb track.
'X-Ray' initially has an almost bouncy Jarre, 'Oxygene' type feel to the sequence but as more elements are brought to play it develops a sort of happy jaunty character all of its own. A little 'tongue in cheek' maybe? 'Breath' is another very moody one, starting with deep drones, sinister sounds and effects and a lovely wistful three note melodic motif. The feel changes completely a couple of seconds later as a bright bouncy sequence makes an entrance. The pace quickens with the introduction of an excellent rhythm and before you know it things have morphed into one of those numbers that gets you driving way too fast. Again it all sounded like early eighties TD to me- and all done so well. It isn't all one paced either as the tempo rises and falls, tending to get moodier during the slower moments.
'Spiders on The Wall' is a real brooding number. It gets underway with some lovely melodic interplay setting a rather ominous searching mood through which a delicate sequence tiptoes. A slow rhythm falls into formation as we continue the steady build up. Next element to be added is a sort of virtual guitar sound, quite low in the mix, making things seem even more sinister. 'Pulse' has a lovely tranquil start. Little melodic flourishes add extra interest, like the Sun's first rays penetrating the gloom, then a lovely thick ballsy sequence comes in followed by a second exciting staccato one. The intensity starts to build and we are soon moving along at quite a scintillating pace. A sublime melody floats over the top contrasting beautifully with the powerful boiling main body of the track. There is still five minutes to go however- plenty of time to step up another gear or two and this is exactly what happens with the introduction of drums and more exciting leads then finally blistering guitar finishing the album with a real blast.
This is a superb CD. All the tracks are excellent and should be loved, as mentioned already, by anyone into Axess or indeed Axess and Maxxess.