There is an enchantment and mystery to this wonderfully poetic space music adventure in the old school analog vein but yet feathering out into a freshness unique to this moment and time...The pristine quality of letting a CD play over and over again without getting tired sounding is contained within Solar Promenades. A magically healing quality.
Enterphase consist of Fred Becker and Jeff Filbert with guest musicians and on 'Solar Promenades' the band have developed their sound without radically departing from previous output. On the opening title track melodic chimes are accompanied by cosmic treatments and effects which meander pleasantly along until around the three minute mark some string effects add a little more atmosphere and gravitas. 'After Service' begins eccentrically with unusual rhythms, distorted loops set against a slowly drifting ambient space backdrop. 'Procession at Dawn' has a more stately backdrop to the electronic effects which sound similar to those deployed on early Hawkwind albums, with ascending and descending bleeps and rushes. 'Ice and Lace' is more laid back cosmic soundscapes with sequencers and melodics drifting similarly towards mid 70's Tangerine Dream circa 'Green Desert'. 'Courtyard Memories' has the most recognisable melody so far that is repeated with subtle variations. David Wright adds keyboards and atmospherics to 'Sky Surge' and 'Snow Paths' which are successful pieces, with the latter being one of the highlights of the set with a well crafted melody and keen sense of dynamics and understated drama. 'Time Unbound' returns to the more characteristic cosmic drift of the title track with sequencers and improvised effects.'When the Morrow Breaks' begins gently with ethereal voices and understated treatments and chimes which gradually build up the atmosphere. 'For You' closes the set in more impressionistic style but with all the trademark effects and by now of course you will know if Enterphase's excursions into deep space float your cosmic clipper or not. This album certainly is a progression from the previous release with a little more melodic input and variation but as previously stated does not radically alter the Enterphase agenda. Space cadets sign up here.
