Artist: Binar (Andy Pickford + Paul Nagle)
Tracklist:
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1.
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the great slow down 17:26
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2.
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the other side 06:28
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3.
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through spectral smoke 09:50
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4.
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le miracle du vert 09:55
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5.
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rollencgecken 08:02
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6.
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mellowtronic 09:57
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7.
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that which we know not 10:56
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Here now the new version with a 7th bonus track.
Tracks two to six were taken from what I think was the second set from their awesome September 2003 National Space Centre Concert. The first however, 'The Great Slow Down' is a new one from the studio. Vast symphonic pads create quite an epic feel. In the third minute ethnic vocal samples can be heard then text taken from some news programme, all underpinned by a gentle sequence which gradually increases in prominence as it rises through the mix.
Lovely little melodic touches add a nice gentle quality to what is becoming quite intense backing. Extra energy comes in the form of a drum line heightening the excitement as well as driving the track forward even faster. Calmness is restored in the last five minutes as a lovely flute weaves its spell over a steady rhythm. Vocal samples return, this time creating quite an uneasy feeling which, if anything, is intensified on 'The Other Side'. Dark drones reverberate and if the volume is high enough should make the floor shake. Above this are ethereal pads with an almost vocal quality to them. The contrast of the drone and pads changes the mood to one that is more spiritual than sinister.
In the last couple of minutes a rather Spanish sounding acoustic guitar can be heard finishing things off in a lovely dreamy state. 'Le Miracle Du Vert' bounces in to life on the back of a rapid high register sequence. A three note bass loop gives depth as lead lines meander over the top.
'RollencGeeken' deploys an even faster splashing sequence which is then replaced by a more bass laden one. It's a track with real attitude in the rhythm department but with sublime little melodies, which just seem to hang in the air, above it all. A more forceful virtual guitar lead line surges forward in the fifth minute giving even more oomph. 'Mellowtronic' initially calms things down with nice relaxing atmospherics, rather Vangelis sounding actually. A slow but infectious groove starts up with yet more little melodic touches weaving around it. A tinkling sequence is added, complemented perfectly by a delicate piano lead. What a beautiful track. The final number 'That Which we Know Not' begins with eerie effects and delicate tinkling bells. This moody start is shattered as some insistent drums roll forth. Things become even more exciting and powerful as a wonderful sequence forces its way to the top of the mix. An excellent track to finish a wonderful album. (DL)
