Watching the earth from orbit, a very special and unique view arises, which most of us only can dream of. Uwe Reckzeh´s fifth album adopts this theme and the imagination starts. “Altitude 30000” is a vivid EM-album with partly melancholic harmonies and mysterious atmospheres and effects, which arise steadily. Especially the 12-minutes track “Landfall” is a masterpiece of newtime romantic music. If someone had imagined in 1981, how EM might sound in the 21st century, Uwe Reckzeh’s “Altitude 30000” would have been the answer. A rumbling bass line shakes the floor, the track now reaching every strata of the sonic spectrum. The closest comparison I can come up with is 'Le Parc' period TD. A stupendous track. Multiple sequences weave around each other for 'Category 5' as we now enter something akin to 'White Eagle' territory. 'Landfall' initially quietens things down again as soothing whooshes and subtle touches drift through the ether. Then, all of a sudden, a wonderful sequence enters. I thought things were really going to take off but instead we settle into a steady mid tempo chugging pattern. The first sequence departs; another enters, only for the first to make a reappearance as they pulse around each other. Sequences still abound on 'List III - Katia', indeed it features some of the finest over the whole album. It's all quite complex but also mesmerizing. I found it best just to lie back with my eyes closed and let it all flood through my head. Even though the notes descend at quite a rate there is also a subtlety here, especially in the melody department that gives it a stamp of quality. An excellent way to finish yet another winner from Uwe.
