Great space music from Malta!
by
Brian Vassallo MUSIC
author: Phil Derby, Electroambient Space
Good things often come in small packages. This gem of a half hour is some classic space music in the vein of the greats like Jean-Michel Jarre and Jonn Serrie. “Are We Alone?” starts very much like Jarre’s classic “Oxygene Part VI,” in fact, with that sweeping pseudo-wave crashing synth sound. Classic space music wafts across your living room as it evolves, full of wonderful gentle vintage sounds. The coolest sequence picks up the pace on “Out There,” along with a nifty beat and full rich pads forming a melodramatic undercurrent. The melodic synth lead is cool, too. Moving into complete drift mode is “Distant Stars,” with whooshing sounds accompanied by bright echoing piano. This one really captures the mood of Brian Eno’s classic, Apollo. It fades out so slowly that the music seems to disappear before the equally long fade in to start “Where Are You Going?” But once it arrives, it brings the highest-energy track. Once again, the sequencing and beats are excellent, irresistibly catchy stuff. This is followed by the quietest deep space excursion on the disc, “Heartbeat Above Earth.” Similar in feel and composition to “Distant Stars,” it remains distinctive enough and strong enough to more than warrant inclusion. “Beyond” rumbles in low as the spaceship’s engines shift gears, slowing to explore the outer realms. It’s a rather ominous ending, but it works, including the abrupt ending. Set up your planetarium, lie on the floor, and enjoy it.
© 2004 Phil Derby / Electroambient Space
