John Dyson - Evolution

Artist: Wavestar
P: 1985 / 2006
This was Wavestar’s first recording, dating all the way back to 1984, now reissued with a bonus track.
“Departure” is a bright, happy opener, making 14 minutes go by in a carefree, easygoing manner. “Seascape” focuses more on atmosphere and texture, but it still has that light, lilting Wavestar quality, and is quite soothing. “Landfall” is a surprisingly dark brooding interlude, but it leads into “Wavestar”, an excellent namesake with brisk sequencing that chugs along just so. Though the disc holds up pretty well, “Acrotramp” does sound a bit dated with its preset drums and percussion, along with the breathy female vocals in the opening seconds. Still, it is definitely vintage Wavestar and will no doubt appeal to many. “Atmospheres” is what it says, although there is a soft beat pacing the synth atmospheres. “Return” is an expressive piece that would not have been out of place on a Tangerine Dream soundtrack album from the same time period.
The bonus track is a live recording of “Voyager” from 1988, the liner notes mentioning it is a bit rough around the edges but also rightly acknowledging is a strong enough performance that it is worthy of inclusion here.

Artist: John Dyson
P: 1991
His second solo CD was also a great success. Melodic, orchestral, with some classical influences. His choice of synthesizersounds is brilliant. Catchy melodies made his second CD also to an alltime classic.