Trance2MoveU

Artist: Various Title: Magic Dew Label: Space Baby Records Date: November, 2009 1. Nepal SHIVA3 2. The good the bad the ugly ASOMA 3. Master of all mystics PARAMATMA 4. Dudka BALAGAN 5. Luuloton OIKEUSJYVA 6. Terra Interna SPIRIT MEDICINE 7. High Visual Philosophy ALIENAPIA 8. Fantapsy Trip OMEGAHERTZ 9. GOA SPUGE H 10. Nexus Boy Kick TALPA What do you get when you cross twisted forest trance, dark bass lines, and goa melodies? Why Magic Dew of course! Space Baby records is a new label with just a few releases to their credit, but they started out strong. This disc has 10 tracks (most of which are by artists with their debut) that combine the elements mentioned above. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Take a look at that beautiful cover. Multicolored pixies under a forested canopy sitting in a circle around the central flower. Not to mention all of the other things you might find if you star at it for awhile. Beautiful. This gives a great hint at what you can expect inside. And what you get is the attempt to meld all three aspects of the genre. The bass lines are very dark opposed by light and airy melodies. The effects lend themselves to a long journey through a thick forest. Every so often, the light of Goa shines brightly through the foliage. In the second half of the album it becomes a scorching sunbeam. "Master of All Mystics" and "Dudka" define forest trance to me with its frenetic washes and ethereal chants. "Terra Interna" weaves bubbly goa riff over a jackhammer kick which then becomes a stomper. This is also the point where a goa album breaks out. "Nexus Boy Kick" harkens back to Talpa's Art of Being Non symphonic greatness. The combination of styles also allows instruments to come together in a way that you wouldn't think of. Also, just when you think you have the track figured out, it turns on you and becomes something different. There is definitely a market for this album, people sick of the everyday stuff that is out there. You do have to be in the mood for this though, as it can be experimental. I think it is an album that will grow on you with repeated listens. Check it out. Psyhoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Synergy Label: Synergetic Records Date: November, 2008 Synergetic Records is an Austrian label founded in the year 2002 by DJ Acan who specialize in modern trance and downbeat music. Though they haven't had any CD releases in 2009 (hostile takeover and incorporated into Plusquam records), they have been active in the digital media market. They have put out discs by artists such as Ovnimoon, Feurerhake and Blue Lunar Monkey. I stumbled across this compilation due to the impressive tracklist. The cover is of a sky with a sphere in the center of a small grid. Interesting. 1. Synergy BIOLAB Filip creates a outerspace tapestry that weeps with past regrets. The beat is not heavy, but smooth with a lamenting melody line high above. Outstanding track. 2. Sideline PION Vladan Jarić released a great track on the "Bad Company" compilation. This one however is rather monotonous with a high pitched annoying lead. Pass 3. Gates of Velves HARDY VELES I don't know who this guy is, but this track has nice floating pads and delicate synth work. Pretty simple, but all the elements seem to come together for an enjoyable, happy listen. 4. Vento NERSO This is Vladan Jarić who recently put out the brilliant "Opposite" with Flegma and this continues in the same vein. Spacious, groovy and melodic. The effects are in the right place to give the track depth and a sinister smoothness. Best on the compilation so far. 5. Elation FLEGMA Serbians Dalibor Delic & Slobodan Gacesa, the Yin to Nerso's Yang, offer the same type of track. Wide open, evolving with each bar coated with dreamy effects. This is right up my alley. The break is sublime, blowing the doors off the spacecraft with intricate melodies. Outstanding! 6. By Illusion ZYCE Serbian Nikola Kozić keeps the good vibes flowing with a smooth number with ethereal melodies soaring above a bouncy bass line. Nice ride. 7. Sound Game KALIMAX This is Magnus Forsberg & Tony Comanti who deliver a melancholic track with a pensive piano and soft synth tinkling. Nothing too elaborate, but I like the way it feels. 8. Sweet Semptember (Zyce rmx) VIBRASPHERE Nikola remixes Lord Vibrasphere's track with nice results. The wispy female vocals drift alongside soft synths while the track unravels. I like that there is always a new sound or effect around the corner. Smooth. 9. Platform FLOAT Another Serbian? Synergetic Records seemed to have tapped into a deep well. Another silky smooth joint with a sparkling synth riff that isn't overused. It gives it a nice spacey feel. I would describe this track as vast where he effectively uses delay creating a huge galaxy. The break further adds to the feeling. Awesome track! 10. Ramirufias (Zyce and Flegma rmx) OVNIMOON Hector has recently released his 4th album "Geometric Poetry" which I reviewed here. This remix is so beautiful, with acoustic instruments and massive choir-pads. I would describe it as dreamy. Synergetic Records have delivered quite the gem. This disc is full of the style of progressive I enjoy. Wide open, with stratospheric melodies and deep lush pads. I don't have a favorite as I enjoyed them all with the exception of the second track. I highly recommend this CD. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Grand Slam Label: Iono Music Date: May, 2008 Iono Music again with more Progressive Trance delicousness. Ritmo (who recently had another comp "Archive 9") is becoming quite the force in the scene and he compiles a nice list of folk for this outing. I really enjoyed his debut release "Disharmonic Silence" and his style fits me perfectly. It's wide open with heavy kicks and evolves nicely. Here he puts together 9 tracks from some known and lesser so folks. The cover is a simple yellow wall with some faded writing on it. Is that a flower box in the corner? 1. Shear Force KAEMPFER AND DIETZE Discogs says these guys are a progressive House outfit, but they dropped a pretty good progressive bomb here. The beat was very heavy and this is one of those tracks that makes you nod your head. Not a lot of variation, but just oodles of groove. Nice start. 2. Blue Connection (MUTe rmx) RITMO This Israeli duo try remixing one of Dubi's tracks and it isn't bad. It has some nice movement to it, but is a little too thin for me. The jumbled melody line doesn't appeal to me. 3. No More Bitchin' KRUEGER AND COYLE This is the first time I have been exposed to this act, and they start with a definite house beat with a super repetitive sample. Super repetitive. "Why can't you see, that all you are to me is a burning effigy of the girl you used to be." Really? You guys sound bitter. I pass on this like an NFL quarterback. Yuck. 4. Supacheap SONIC CUBE Here come the Swiss! And they are bringing a superb bass groove that rings of sunset beaches with drink in hand. The break was a bit odd, but luckily it is short and we are plunged into more groove with a nice melody over top. Great track. 5. Bright Side SHIMMER AMOUNT I have no idea who this is, and according to the almighty Discogs, this is their first release. The best part of this track was the too short break with the percussion and airy atmosphere. Most of the sounds (including the bass) didn't do much for me. It sounded kind of abrasive, like the tune was being forced onto me, not smooth like I'm used to from Iono. 6. Single Gemini FAT DATA These guys bring the 2nd longest track on this compilation andhad an average track on the "Pathfinder" V/A. This is more of the same. It takes forever to develop and the groove isn't all that strong. I believe this is what you would call filler. 7. Ocean Fly TEMPTATION This duo start their track off with a cheesy statement of the track title. Pure corn, is it really necessary? The rest delivers Ibiza trance vocals with more cheesy guitar. Ritmo, what were you thinking? 8. Bodycheck SOLANO This is Tony Buehlmann & Heinz Loertsche from Switzerland who have released 2 full length albums. I haven't heard either, but their compilation releases were quite good. Unfortunately this one plods along without any real direction. Pretty disappointing actually. 9. Alexanderplatz TIMEDRAINED 13 minutes?!? I can usually only tolerate that with goa! Or...Jikkenteki's stuff. The Danes offer a seemingly downtempo start, with thundering tribal drums and then the beat kicks in. This one maintains a sense of atmosphere; character. The bass is low and grumbly with well placed effects putting me into the track. I get an Aboriginal feel with a sound that sounds like a didgeridoo! I wonder why he called it Alexanderplatz? Regardless, it was worth spending the thirteen minutes. Great track. Well what you have here is an uncharacteristically pedestrian effort by the great Iono Music. I was waiting for a hiccup in their seemingly stellar catalog and it seems I have found it. Aside from the Sonic Cube, Timedrained and Kaempfer And Dietze tracks there really isn't anything to blow your skirt up. The melodies aren't stellar and most of the grooves are not up to Iono standards. What I have come to expect from this label is wide open airy atmospheres with thumping beats that allow the track room to grow and evolve. There wasn't any of that here. This release is average and I can recommend plenty other discs that will satisfy your progressive need. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Alternative Colours Label: Ezel-Ebed Records Date: June, 2009 1. Dharmakaya ALIENAPIA 2. Aqua Society (2005 Waterly Remix) FILTERIA 3. Ezel Ebed YAN ETKI 4. Second Coming LIQUID FLOW 5. Lunar Effect MERR0W 6. Stressed Out BIT-HEAD 7. Eyes Wide Open AGNETON 8. Desert Wind TRAVMA 9. Shiva Sutras GOALIEN 10. Spread Your Wings EBT Normally I leave the goa trance reviews to the very capable and thorough Jon Coco, but since this was requested by one of the board members I thought I would give it a go. Ezel-Ebed Records is a Turkish Goa Trance label run by Travma who incidentally has released several great goa tracks himself. This is their first release and boy is it a doozy. We get 10 tracks of pure goa madness by some of the best names in the "nu-school" revolution. The cover is of some brown and yellow fractal with a border. Hardly impressive, but not unpleasant. 1. Dharmakaya ALIENAPIA This is the same Ukrainian duo responsible for the Zymosis downtempo project. They bring a massively powerful track that is thick with melodies and that edge that makes goa what it is. A superb way to start! 2. Aqua Society (2005 Waterly Remix) FILTERIA I am unsure if this remix is by Filteria himself, but anytime I see his name associated with music I take notice. Right off the bat, the melodies start piling up bringing that delicious goa feel to the ears. Another new melody comes in at around 4 minutes with nary a break bringing the track to an intense climax. This is non-stop and completely epic. Awesome! 3. Ezel Ebed YAN ETKI This track starts off mellower than the previous 2, but you can feel it building as the cutoff knob is tweaked. The lead dances an ancient dance as new melodies join the fray. The break is almost peaceful before the beat reconvenes and takes us smoothly to the end. This is a nice groovy, pensive track with much less insanity. 4. Second Coming LIQUID FLOW Croatian Tomislav Savic just released his debut album "Presence" and I can tell you it is a must have. Synths churn and pads warn us that we are not in Kansas anymore. The growl of a 303 dominates as a tactile melody stabs at you with agile quickness. After a short break talking about the subconscious, the lead becomes more aggressive and I am lost in melody. Another quality mover! Great job. 5. Lunar Effect MERR0W Frenchman Brice Fruyt released "Born Underwater" this year and it was a smash. This track has floating melodies and heavenly breaks. The slight tribal percussion in one of those breaks is one of the simple touches that can make a track. The beat is not as heavy forcing the melodies out front where they soar. This track could just as easily been on his album. 6. Stressed Out BIT-HEAD This is another project from goa mastermind Filipe Santos (Lost Buddha, Amithaba Buddha, Pandemonium) and for me he has yet to disappoint. I am still giving his "Goa Gate" spins. This is his 8-bit project so I guess it means it is a scaled down production. It is a little more out there, with twisted detuned leads. I like it because it is so different, but it is not my favorite. He has the ability to always attach an underpinning of goa to whatever musical style he chooses to create and I think that is pretty cool. 7. Eyes Wide Open AGNETON "Special Delivery from Mars!" Belgian Elias Gits released "Horizon in Your Head" last year and I don't think it got the attention it deserved. He does a little of the Nitzo style as well and that is represented here. The melody is goa with the speed of Nitzo. Normally I don't go for Nitzo, but he adapts it with go very smoothly and you can't separate the two. 8. Desert Wind TRAVMA Label owner brings a very wet, twisted melody almost acidic in the vein of Space Tribe or EU. It dances all over the place, washing over you like a welcome rain. Not quite as epic as some, this one just gets right to the point. 9. Shiva Sutras GOALIEN Serbian Boris Huskic starts off with a doof doof kick and spiraling melodies. The break is sort of a breakbeat style with the pads setting the tone. The 2nd break is more of what I'm used to. Nice effects also. 10. Spread Your Wings EBT The final track is a downtempo one complete with ancient chants, middle eastern flutes and chimes. It still has that goa feel and is a great way to end this melodic journey. This has to go down as one of the best goa trance compilations out there. It is aggressive, thoughtful, and most assuredly trance inducing. A lot of times when you see a veteran artist on the tracklist of a compilation, it can be underwhelming. This is not the case. The vast majority of these tracks are beyond excellent, being melodic and making me nostalgic for the era I missed. Congratulations Travma, you have produced one helluva effort here. I am looking forward to your next release "Elixir of Life." Beatspace Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Destinations 2 Label: Iono Music Date: September, 2008 1. Stereo Bug YOTOPIA 2. Deep Devil (Zyce rmx) MIDIMAL 3. Searching for new levels ARW 4. Disco Slave MOTION DRIVE 5. Shadowgaze TIME IN MOTION 6. Don't believe in mirrors (Aerospace rmx) FLOWJOB 7. Fixed NASSER 8. Bob Jackson (Mute rmx) TIMEDRAINED 9. Ilha Bela (Nasa rmx) S-RANGE Iono Music should just pay me. Review after review is written and they all seem to be gushingly positive. Sometimes I have to check to make sure I am not a plant. I get their music and think, "This will be the one that stinks." But it never happens. If you haven't been reading my reviews (shame on you, they are all over the place) I am on a progressive kick lately. Iono music is a superb progressive trance label from Germany that continues to release the best progressive I have ever heard. It is spacious, and super deep. Growling synths, rich pads, and soaring melodies would pretty much characterize all of their releases. This one is no exception. Listening to the tracks they unfold slowly before the ears. They evolve and the breaks enhance their, pardon this, spirituality. In no way am I trying to put a religious spin on their or any music, but all their tracks have a story to tell, and it is never boring. It would be impossible to select a favorite track as they are all brilliant. This can be played straight through and before you know it 70 minutes have gone by, stirring up memories and making new ones. Track this down people. Outstanding work Iono. I would say keep it up, but that seems to be a foregone conclusion at this point. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Cabaret Label: Tribal Vision Date: June, 2008 1. Wasteland (Fiord rmx) VIBRASPHERE 2. Just move it up ASTRONIVO VS. DJ ZOMBI 3. Punta Bagna SIDE A 4. What time is up (A Tribute to KLF) TEGMA 5. Flesh Taste (Luke Porter rmx) JOHN DEERE 6. Ducaralho DUCA 7. Pigs and Cows ALTER BREED 8. Red Led MOTION AND KAA 9. Orchestra 2.0 (Nipp rmx) JAIA 10. Discodelic (Dousk rmx) BRISKER AND MAGITMAN Czech label Tribal Vision is another powerful player in the progressive music scene. They have released a bunch of Cds and digital media by well established artists like Vibrashpere, Fitalic, Duca, and Tegma. This release has a good amount of veterans on it, so we will see where it goes. The cover is quite intricate when you look at it. Clown heads, a monkey and a panda...definitely one of the more interesting ones out there. It's easy to see the differences in what type of music a label releases. At least on this disc, Tribal Vision's version of progressive trance is a scaled back effort with very soft, thick kicks and slow development. Much more laid back with not a lot of melody evolution. House influences are evident (which I normally despise) but it seems to work here because it is not overpowering. The tracks are groovy I suppose, but I like my progressive trance to be more elaborate and actually...progress. Tracks of note are Tegma's "What Time is Up" which is an homage to the very famous KLF track. It is a house inspired number which eventually becomes a powerful psychedelic thumper. "Pigs and Cows" starts off groovy and flowers into a great dance floor jam. The last track, a Dousk remix of "Discodelic" has some of the dirtiest, gurgling bass I have ever heard. And really that's what you get here. Tracks that are geared for dancing and party time, but not really for home listening. Ain't nothing wrong with that. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Beat Generation 2 Label: Iono Music Date: April, 2009 Man, another cracker from Iono. As I have discussed previously (if any of you are kindly enough to read my reviews) I am on a progressive trance kick. Iono music has been the label I have gravitated towards as they seem to release so many high quality tunes. This is the 2nd installment in the Beat Generation series compiled by Dr. Changa. Is he really a Dr.? Regardless, he has assembled quite the arsenal for this compilation and if their previous efforts were any indication then this should be an enjoyable listen. 1. Afterglow ZYCE AND FLEGMA 2. The sacred spirit CABAL 3. GloryLand AQUAFEEL 4. Land of 2 suns AQUALIZE 5. Way out AUDIOLOAD 6. Sensations (Aquafeel rmx) ANDROMEDA 7. Colour TIME IN MOTION 8. Typical human behaviour PROGENITOR 9. Kastefa Beach OCEAN AND DISPLAY What you get is exactly what they have been delivering on a consistent basis. Wide open storytelling over bouncy beats. The pads are so thick they seem to blot out the sun. Synths drip with melody as effects vie for attention. Bass lines are kept simple and seem to make sure that the listener gets caught up in a deep groove. This is an album with which to lose oneself. High production values are evident as it all sounds crystal clear. The break on "Land of 2 Suns" is superbly well done, giving the track a heavenly feel. Audioload (great name) brings a wall of groove that is genius in its simplicity. "Typical Human Behavior" keeps the toes tapping with a dreamy melody. There was only a minimal amount of filler where the music seems thin, so this comes recommended. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Atyss Title: State of Resonance Label: Sonic Motion Records Date: December, 2009 1. Cosmogony (feat. Killer Buds) 2. Crystal Oscillator 3. Room 237 RMX 4. Chaotic Bliss 5. Groove Attitude 6. Logical Paradox 7. Noise Control (feat. Tim Schuldt) 8. Scorpio Department (feat. Triskell) 9. Direct Access (feat. Lazy Lyzard) Sonic Motion Records is a French label run by Atyss so here he comes with his debut. I know this label from compilation releases like "Hypnotwist" and "Motion Sensor" and he (Gregory Morand) had a track called "Room 237" on the aforementioned "Hypnotwist" which was an absolute stomper. There is a remix of that very track on this disc. They specialize in what you would call twilight psy, very powerful and ominous. Starting with the cover, it is of bent over human form above a city that is surrounded by what I presume to be speakers. Electricity is of course a by product. Visually striking. So is this the next big thing that will rock dance floors worldwide? Well, this isn't a bad album, but I have to say I am slightly disappointed. I was expecting a little more than what was given. Insanity, deep melodic layers above a punishing bass line. The sound is groovy and high energy at times, but it feels as though something is missing. The tracks are not as full or epic sounding as they could be and it comes off as rather generic full-on in places. Unfortunately what seems to happen here is that when a good part arrives, the momentum and feel cannot be maintained. Which is odd, because his compilation tracks are heavyweights. It could just be that I am spoiled by Timecode excellence and therefore set the bar impossibly high. Nonetheless, this could've been better with a richer, more involved sound. Now where did I put that Hypnotwist disc again? Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Cell Title: Hanging Masses Label: Ultimae Records Date: December 2009 1. Calling 2. Switch Off (featuring AES Dana) 3. Second Shape part I 4. Risky Nap under blue rree 5. Hanging Masses 6. Vapor 7. Second Shape part II 8. Universal Sunrise Aes Dana. H.U.V.A. Network. Solar Fields. Carbon Based Lifeforms. These are the perennial powerhouses when you think of chilled out grooves and downtempo bliss. The fact that they are all released under one label is mind blowing. Ultimae is a force in this type of music releasing consistently superb material in the genre. Cell is Alexandre Sheffer, who has had quite the prolific career as a sound engineer, keyboard player, artist and teacher. His works have shown up on numerous compilations and is sought after for remixes. His album "Phonic Peace" could arguably be called a classic, and shows his ability to go from lush downtempo to deep goa atmospheres. Starting with the cover, it is typical Ultimae style with the letterbox format showcasing what appears to be a satellite adrift in space. And isn't that what satellites are, hanging masses? As for the music, I was going to take it track by track and describe the emotions that I felt when listening to this disc. Unfortunately, it ended up a failed storytelling attempt as all I could think of was scary sci-fi movies we have all seen. Not very original. So let me tell you that this music is very cold. Cold in the sense of being adrift in deep space, not unlike the Event Horizon. This is a journey of a future time, where advanced nanotechnology rules. The percussion is slight, pitched up with rich pads and soft twinkling melodies floating in zero gravity. This is music for computer monitors, with the soft glow of blue L.E.D.'s. Sterile, as in the movie Gattaca. The dull drone of machinery is ever present and I want for warmth, but I'm sorry Hal, I cannot do that. This is an album that sets a mood and sticks with it. It evokes strong imagery, and immerses the listener allowing the tapestry to unfold before him. This is a total 180 from Cell's previous album, but it is marvelous. Highly recommended. Psyshoppage Beatspace Mdk

That makes a lot of sense! Mdk

Artist: Jirah Title: The Fluorogenic EP Label: Psy-Core Records Date: December, 2009 1. Flourogenic (7:24) 2. Ballistic (8:04) 3. Psy vs Psy (8:04) 4. Polar Dreams (8:32) Jirah is Tim McCall who has been around the game for quite some time with two full album releases and scores of tracks on numerous compilations. What I like about this release and this artist in general is that the evolution in his sound and production has been on the upswing. With each consecutive effort the quality is on the rise. There is incredible attention to detail involving the listener to the music. This is full-on, but it is well crafted; being both melodic and groovy. The standout track is "Ballistic" and it is exactly that, an all out assault on dance floors in the great psychedelic tradition. "Psy Vs. Psy" while not as aggressive is no less melodic and impressive. It is more of a thinkers track, allowing the music to sink in and marinate. The final track "Polar Dreams" takes a page from the progressive playbook, producing a laid back ride along a colorful memory that can't help but bring a smile to one's face. The acoustic strumming of a guitar is sublime, shining above some tribal percussion. This was a great effort and well worth the small amount of money. I hope there is a new full length album in the works from this artist as he continues to be on the right track. Juno Trackitdown Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Amarasya Vol. 4 Label: Blue Tunes Recordings Date: October 2009 1. Digital Technology AUDIOMATIC AND PHAXE 2. Your Eyes SVEN SNUG 3. Orange SYMPHONIX 4. Cardiac Arrest (Suntree rmx) ACE VENTURA 5. Simple Words AEROSPACE 6. Summer Splash KOPEL 7. Pure OSHER VS SVEN SNUG 8. Trip Away (RPO rmx) SYMPHONIX 9. In the wind HALDOLIUM Along with Iono Music and Iboga Records, Blue Tunes Recordings is another label that is very prolific in releasing quality progressive trance. This is the 4th installment of the apparently popular Amarasya series. This was compiled by Montagu & Golkonda and offer 9 tracks. The cover of the CD is pretty much the same as previous Amarasya covers, only with a different color scheme. I liked the 3rd one, never heard the first, but didn't care for the 2nd too much. Something's got to give. "Digital Technology" is the best track on the album so you can look at this one of two ways. "Man, what a great way to start!" or "Wow...this is going to be a long album." "Your Eyes" has a repetitive sample saying, you guessed it, "Your Eyes." It has an affable groove, but it feels hollow and not very intricate. Not bad though. Symphonix delivers a rather empty tune that strays into the minimal side of things. ZZZzzzzz..... Suntree had a wonderful debut album and here he gives an Ace Ventura track the remix business. I don't think it was his best work (no need for the cliche heartbeat and repetitive sample) however. The synth lines into the break are a nice touch though. I had mentioned somewhere previously that I didn't care for the latest Aerospace disc, but I have an open mind. The kick is thunderous, I'll give it that. As soon as the female speaking voice appears, my open mind instantly closes. It's just not for me as it leans too far into the house direction. "Summer Splash" offers no surprises, but has quite the delay on the synth chords. Still, average at best. "Pure" begins with a drone, but quickly drops a beat. The break is allows the track room to grow and is my favorite part, but it's still pretty thin. "I exist on the best terms I can." RPO remix a Symphonic track and it has a very big beat. I'm not crazy about the epic buildup, but it's brief so I can look past it. Not a whole lot going on here though. Haldolium are Mario Reinsch & Mark Lorenzen and I don't know too much about them. "In The Wind" starts quite aggressively for a progressive track. What stands out though is the annoying vocals. This is not how I would choose to end a progressive trance compilation as it makes me want to punch someone. Wow, so where do I start? This is a woefully average compilation at best. I know the artists can do better than this. I came away from this disc feeling cheated. I should've known 9 times out of 10 when you are dealing with sequels on the 4th order, that the quality can dip. Oh it dipped all right. This release was boring, with no surprises or sense of story. I'm not saying that rich layers or elaborate synth lines are a must, but at least have an interesting groove. This didn't make me want to dance, it made me want to go watch the news. Pass. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: French Plaisir Label: Iono Music Date: June 2008 1. Magic Corner TIME IN MOTION 2. UF7 KULARIS 3. Space n Time MUTE 4. Rest in panic (Xahno rmx) DUALISM VS. MEELOO 5. Special Sakaya DAVINA 6. Find your own reality CYKLONES 7. Over and Out (Klopfgeister rmx) MIDIMAL 8. Beating Wood BADBUG 9. Secret Effects PHAXE I'm telling you I feel like I am hooked. Iono music continues to release outstanding CDs and like Pavlov's dog, I salivate when I get them. Titles like "Sunset Delights", "Pathfinder", "Genetic Drift", "Carrots & Stick" and "Tales of Fall" are just some of the great music they put out. I know if anyone goes over my reviews and they see all the Iono Music albums that they will surmise that I am a plant. Rest assured, I am not. As a matter of fact, I am fairly new to the whole genre of progressive trance. I became disillusioned with psytrance's copy and paste unoriginality that I am now firmly in the progressive trance and goa corner. This was released last year and I don't remember hearing much about it. The cover itself is fairly unoriginal, playing on the word "plaisir" by putting a woman on it. I guess she could be French. The real measure of a CD's worth is of course the music on the inside, not the wrapper. "Magic Corner" is another wide open triumph for the trio of Danes who bring beautiful melodies to bear. But after that, I felt most of the tracks were thin. The production was great, but I felt they were rather directionless. It's possible that I have such high expectations for this label, but I don't think so. Normally in a compilation from Iono, you get twists and turns, great breaks, and gorgeous melodies. This was more straightforward, without much variation in the tracks. Notice I said most. Badbug shows his groove skills with the unfortunately titled "Beating Wood" and Phaxe delivers a good effort with "Secret Effects." So there you have it. A couple really good tracks, a couple good ones, and then filler. Not bad, but there are better Iono compilations out there for your progressive fix. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Tales of Fall Label: Iono Music Date: November 2008 1. Sonic Vision VISUA 2. Swing King PHAXE 3. Prological ORGANIX 4. Magnitude NERSO 5. Back Together TIME IN MOTION 6. My World XAHNO AND SUPERGROOVER 7. Blow Out FLEGMA 8. A world around us BADBUG 9. Deep Resonance PROGENITOR Iono music is back on the scene waging war on dancefloors with a quiver of deadly progressive arrows. I must admit, I have become quite the fan of this label, as they have had stellar release after release. The quality is high as are my hopes for this one. The cover is a dazzling array of foliage in the color of Autumn. Solid. The tracklist is mostly unknowns to me, but that has been a non factor with Iono music. "Sonic Vision" by Visua is a simple piece but it is still layered with beautiful sounds and soaked in reverb adding to its spaciousness. The melody near the end was nicely unexpected. Phaxe drops a bomb in typical huge room style. This track makes me feel good with it's changing melodies, reminding me of good times. The multiple breaks are as smooth as silk. "Prological" is a straight forward 4 on the floor evolver. Nothing too exciting, just groovy. Nerso is Dragan Matić who with Flegma put out one of the best albums in 2009 called "Opposite." This track is super rich, with bouncy, deep bass, and smooth melodies. Definitely one of my favorites. Time in Motion have been on a few comps and they deliver a blister of a track. Just groovy and authoritative. You will take notice when you hear "Back Together." The break is just massive and coupled with the flow, this track is just about perfect. "My World" is a well produced groover. It's good, but it doesn't hold up against the previous 2 tracks. Flegma delivers another big beat epic! Smooth, goes down like a dream. This guy can compose a track. It's not that one thing stands out, but the coherency that is impressive. "A World Around Us" by Badbug begins with an elaborately beautiful intro and then comforts you in a warm embrace of your own imagination. So vivid are his textures, that this sonic tapestry is a masterpiece. The last track is a nice smooth escape, nothing groundbreaking, but a great way to end a comp. Well, Iono has done it again. This was truly a superb selection of progressive bangers. All the tracks were marvelously produced and they also gave a guided tour into their vision. This is definitely a must have if you are a fan of progressive or just a fan of groovy music. Psyshoppage Beatspace Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Audiophile Vol. 2 Label: Spintwist Records Date: November, 2009 1. Transpose VAISHIYAS AND AUDIOMATIC 2. Aurora Nights DAY.DIN 3. Think Twice (Phaxe and Time In Motion rmx) AUDIOMATIC 4. Lego Tech RITMO 5. Heaven and hell (Audiomatic and Vaishiyas rmx) SINISTER SILENCE 6. Simple ADDA, SYNTHAX AND MOONTALES 7. Give them free NEELIX 8. Intoxicated NORMALIZE 9. Difficult Phase AUDIOMATIC 10. 2nd Fynn (Symphonix rmx) VAISHIYAS Spintwist Records is another label that delivers some quality progressive trance with numerous releases in CD and digital form. While I wasn't totally on board for the most recent Nordlight release or Aerospace's "Stereoflip", I am always intrigued by compilations. With the different production styles, you can really get a sense of the direction an artist is going to take their music. Starting with the cover, it is of a microphone with arms and legs (skinny though they may be) plugging a speaker into a jack. That vintage mic must really want to hear this album. Nothing special about this cover. The music inside however is quite special. The first track was a nice intro into the progressive world, but we really kick it off with the Day.Din track "Aurora Nights." Very bouncy with the synths giving it a spacious and delicate feel. I loved the wide open Ritmo track and the Neelix track "Give Them Free" is maxxed out on groove. There are a couple of songs that don't have much direction to my ears, but they are in the minority. Closing out the compilation is a Symphonic remix that is so dirty, I had to listen to it again. So it seems like the little mic was right. Find a speaker and plug in, this music is so spacious and deep. The bass forms the foundation as the synths wash over the listener. Samples are kept to a minimum, and when they are present, they enhance the track rather than take away from it. If you're not nodding your head to this, check for a pulse. Highly recommended. Psyshoppage Beatspace Mdk

Artist: Behind Blue Eyes and Krusseldorf Title: Kisses From the Clouds Label: Iboga Records Date: December, 2009 1. Endless Possibilities (Motion Drive rmx) BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 2. Portrait of a heartbeat BEHIND BLUE EYES, SUN CONTROL SPECIES 3. Domination (Behind Blue Eyes rmx) YOTOPIA 4. Ol'fox BEHIND BLUE EYES, BEAT BIZARRE 5. Double Trouble BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 6. Endless Possibilities BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 7. The world is our oyster (2009 mix) BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 8. You were aware BEHIND BLUE EYES, FLOWJOB, JOYCE MERCEDES 9. Kisses from the clouds BEHIND BLUE EYES 10. Sub Surface Dwellers BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 11. Time Stop BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 12. Depth Charge BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 13. Holy Makaroly BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF, TERZIAN 14. Depth Charge (Antix rmx) BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 15. Spanker KRUSSELDORF 16. Cold sleep chamber KRUSSELDORF 17. Autumn BEHIND BLUE EYES, KRUSSELDORF 18. Kisses from the clouds (Krusseldorf rmx) BEHIND BLUE EYES This one goes out to Mindphilux! I do read the review requests. Wow. This is a monster. 18 tracks in two cds, it is also available in the Compact Stick media format. The great Iboga Records, warlords of Progressive Trance, are behind this mish mash of a release. I don't say that as an insult, far from it. I say it because you have tracks that are by both of the featured artists, tracks by their lonesomes, as well as tracks of theirs remixed by other artists. Either way you slice it, a prettier piece of progressive pie you would be hard to come by. The cover is of a beautiful cloud ridden sky with a slight inkblot where the artists names are located. It seems very peaceful and relaxing. The promo from Psyshop says that this is "an an awesome blend of Techno, Trance and Chillout with everything in between and a little more!" It sounds nice, like a dream come true, but is it? Too many releases have tried to do it all only to come up short. We'll see rabbit. We'll see. I won't review each track because...well there are 18 of them. What you get is bouncy, sometimes house influenced progressive trance. Not many layers (sometimes it can sound almost minimal) with a heavy nod towards techno. It can be quirky, or relaxing, but always groovy. There are not any epic tracks here where stories are being told; ones that you will always remember where you were when you heard it. However, I could see this working in a DJ set, as the kicks are really heavy and the effects create a dreamy atmosphere. "You Were Aware" hit me with the right combination of smooth vibe crossed with juicy bass. "Sub Surface Dwellers" came with a nice, almost melancholy piano melody. The grooviest track has to go to the Antix remix of "Depth Charge". While not essential, you really can't go wrong with this release. Psyshoppage Mdk

I know that was weird. Go to the Artists and label new page and find the NK-47 thread. Mdk

Artist: Yggdrasil Title: Prosse Edda Label: Digital Psionics Date: November, 2009 1. Don't feed the toadstools 2. Beyond the borders of sanity (Yggdrasil Remix) 3. Flying Sausage 4. Headfoam Jack 5. Everyone is looking (Yggdrasil Remix) 6. Meat your chops 7. Amazing Gnejs I am going to be totally honest. I got this for the cover alone. I'm a sucker that way. I had no idea who this project was, but look at that cover. A translucent head where the skull is plainly visible. But instead of a brain, it is a image of a germinating tree. Genius. The background seems like a historic marble backsplash. What really stuns me is that this was released by Digital Psionics, a label more known for their twisted brand of Twilight full-on. So, we've got a kick ass cover, a label with a great track record with their releases, and I project I know absolutely nothing about. Sign me up! Yggdrasil are a Swedish duo whose name means an immense tree in Norse mythology. Here is what wikipedia told me about the Prosse Edda. So what's the music like? First off let me say that psyshop's description of this as ambient or chill-out is WAAAAYYYY off. If you are looking to relax and get mellow, keep moving. "Don't Feed the Toadstools"- What a title! It starts of slow and dark, but it generates power with a demented lead and thick, chunky beat. Eventually I lose interest though, as the tune starts a wind up that seems to go on to long. The acoustic guitars are a nice touch. "Beyond The Borders of Sanity (Yggdrasil Remix)"- Remix of a Paul Harbor track whoever that is. This one moves slowly with caution. A nice melody with the bass and acoustic guitars settles in nicely, promptly turning into a cool reggae-like vibe. It becomes very psychedelic with the beat hitting like a sledgehammer but the cartoon samples didn't really fit in for me. Not bad. "Flying Sausage"- They definitely have interesting track names. Big beat...a really big beat. I have to nod my head to this. The tempo almost predictably changes (maybe the style of this duo) and takes the track in a totally different direction. I didn't care for the mixing of styles here, it seemed kind of disjointed. "Headfoam Jack"- What does that mean? Meh, another track that goes for a while. They have 4 out of 7 tracks that go for over 10.5 minutes. This one is more of a breakbeat number, melodic in places, but it is heavy on groove. It just goes on so long. "Everyone is Looking (Yggdrasil Remix)"- Aha! There is the Finnish connection, as this is a remix of a M.E.E.O. track. Wait...that guy is from Sweden also? Man. Anyway, this starts of as a nice dub that I can lose myself in. Rich, swarming melodies fly through the air, making me think I am on the beach. This is what I was expecting! Marvelous! "Meat Your Chops"- Clever. This one slowly moves with a glitchy backdrop almost hearkening back to a slight goa vibe. The beat is very insistent, a structured march forward. I am loving this, but all is not as it would seem. The beat becomes more aggressive as the tempo increases, raising the psychedelic stakes. Cue the guitars and you don't know what you are in store for. "Amazing Gnejs"- I don't even know how to pronounce that second word. Who cares, as the spacey downtempo continues. This is the longest track on the CD so it has plenty of time to go through different permutations. And believe me, the weird sounds are not far behind. Curiosity killed the cat you know? This release has given me mixed feelings. At times it can sound uber-melodic and groovy (especially the latter half of the CD), and at other times becomes a plodding noisy mess. There is definitely plenty here to keep the ear focused, and I wouldn't call any of the tracks bad or filler. Each one has entertaining parts, but I didn't find a track that floored me. There were some parts that seemed really experimental to me and that's good in small doses. The tracks seemed to combine so many styles that they lacked identity. Maybe the Swedes are like the Finns with this Suomi-lite style? Who knows, but with this release you get techno, downtempo, Big beat, experimental, psy....you name it. Not my cuppa, but I can see some out there might appreciate the diversity. Psyshoppage Mdk

Artist: Goalogy Title: Secret Tales Label: Underground Alien Factory Date: November, 2009 01. Goalogy - Secrets of Deep Sea (6:10) 02. Goalogy - Liquid Freedom (5:37) This is the 2nd release from Underground Alien Factory, and once again it is free. I didn't see any promo for it on this site, but you can get it from the netlabel here. This is Sergey Litvinsky from mother Russia who is a solo goa trance project. He seems to have had some earlier releases, but I haven't heard them. Let's start with the wicked cover for this EP. A warlock against a very psychedelic colored backdrop. He looks like an evil Gandalf. You get two tracks which are both quite good. They are layered with melodies, but I prefer "Liquid Freedom" as it sounds darker and also has some breathy Asian chants. Once again, another pretty good release from this netlabel. If I had to say, this one was the weakest of the releases, but it was still good. Keep it up! Mdk

Artist: PharaOm Title: Awakening Bodhisattva Label: Underground Alien Factory Date: November, 2009 1. Awakening Bodhisattva (8:09) 2. Yamantaka (8:40) 3. White Tara (8:15) This is the 3rd release from netlabel Underground Alien Factory headed by Imba. PharaOm is, well...I don't know who he is. French I believe and this is his first release. Once again, this gem is available for free on the Psynews artist news section. The cover is of 3 ancient temples deep in a jungle against a purple sky. This let's you know what type of music you are in for. A trip back to the glory days of Goa, where melodies were king and sunshine was the standard. The synths are nicely tweaked and they rise and fall under his control creating a fluid landscape of dance. "Yamantaka" gurgles its way to the surface giving way to a hugely spacious pad as the native drums gather momentum until another lead dominates. My favorite, "White Tara" starts of with a native plucked instrument and a pensive tabla over a barely perceptible deep bassline. Very rich! By the 4th minute the synth is twirling high above being held only by the ever present tabla. Truly a tune to get lost in. This was a wonderful visit to the goa of yesteryear and I enjoyed it very much. This netlabel is quite proficient at putting out quality EP's with artists that are very competent. It has me wondering what is next to be released. Definitely one to watch. Highly recommended. Mdk

Artist: NK-47 Title: Outer Space Shaman EP Label: Underground Alien Factory Date: December 2009 Tracklist: 01. NK-47 - Outer Space Shaman (9:40) 02. NK-47 - The Third Eye (9:27) 03. NK-47 - My Home is Eternal Peace (7:36) This is the fourth release I believe by this netlabel headed by frequent poster to this site Imba. They specialize in goa, Nitzhonot, and ambient. NK-47 is 18 year old Israeli Nadav Dov Kahanovich who had a couple of tracks on the recent compilation "Art from the Heart." Good ones too. This is a free release (you can find it in the Label Release section of this site) so let's start off by saying you have nothing to lose by downloading and giving it a listen. Starting with the cover, it is of a Shaman entering a reddish cave against some sunlight. Not bad, but what about the music? You will not be disappointed, as 303's howl, epic pads define the atmosphere, and the production is very good. It sounds great in my headphones. I found the 1st track enjoyable, but the second was more my style as it was a non-stop rush from the past, with furious goa melodies. "My Home Is Eternal Peace" is a slower tempo, but not a chill tune. It has some rustic tribal percussion, and an insistent groove. The melodies take time to develop and carry you along on a cloud of yesteryear. Great job, this is highly recommended! Free Download! Mdk

Artist: Yotopia Title: Connect The Dots Label: Iboga Records Date: March, 2009 1. Spunk 2. Sheer Mayhem 3. Sleepless Hippies 4. Offset 5. Mr. Brotherman 6. Game on 7. In my hands 8. Monitor 9. No way out Yotopia are Yoni Rimon & Tomer Dayan from Tel Aviv who present their second album "Connect The Dots." This was released by Iboga recods, a label so prolific that it's easy to see how some albums get lost in the shuffle. If you read the promo, it says that they are blurring the lines between techno, progressive, and trance. The cover is of a (you guessed it) connect the dots image of an old phonograph on a yellow field. The speaker and the title of the album are in red. What you get with this album are bouncy grooves with a wet kick. Some of these kicks are so thick it's like hitting a mattress with a broomstick. The music is not heavily detailed but that doesn't take away from its appeal. "Sheer Mayhem" had a descending tinkling that went so well with the groove that it was infectious. So simple yet incredibly effective. "Mr. Brotherman" was heavier on melody while seeming more spacious. "Game On" fills a room with its presence and will have people dancing up a storm. "In My Hands" has a nice break with a dreamy feel. This is good time trance. It's a get your paycheck, hookup with your friends at a bar, drink up and then dance until 4 a.m. good time. This is an album focused mainly on groove with the little touches that keep it from getting stale. While I didn't really hear any techno influences, I didn't mind. Even though it is light on layers and depth, it's strength is its simplicity. There aren't a lot of different sounds that compete for dominance, just a basic disc full of danceable rhythms providing a rollicking good time. Psyshoppage Mdk

I'm going to have to agree that Machinery is an absolutely fabulous goa track. Mdk

Artist: Various Title: Floating Point 4 Label: Sofa Beats Date: June 2007 Shen - Jagiya Krusseldorf - Bud Luvin Fingertwister - I Remember Jah (Ooze Remix) Koan - Warm Evening In Paris Excession - Just For You Sundial Aeon - Mysanthia Phutureprimitive - Luminous Feat. Alyssa Palmer (Former Self Mix) Kliment - Planet Dissolver Rena Jones - Blueshift Irina Mikhailova - Falling (Omnimotion Remix) Sofa Beats is the downtempo sub-label of Iboga Records and they hit one out of the park with the Relax Mode compilation. Looking at the tracklist, my mouth starts to water as it is a virtual who's who in the downtempo genre. The covers for the Floating Point series have never been very striking, but this one is spectacular. It is of a brilliantly red sea creature (oceanographers help me out here) against a stark yellow and brown background. It immediately catches the eye. And isn't that what covers are supposed to do? 1. Shen is Noah Pred who has already been on several comps and put out a full length album. The thumping kick hits with the force of a sledgehammer as electronics spiral above. When the bass jumps in, there is an air of mystery supplied. Not a bad way to start an album 2. Krusseldorf drops a reggae-style beat presumably because he loves the "bud." Not a bad track, just a little noisy for my taste in downtempo. 3. Ooze remixes a Fingertwister track in a dubby style. There is a lot of chopped up samples without much in the way of melody until a calming break. After that it's just a mish-mash of sounds to me. 4. Koan delivers a breakbeat number that leans more towards the lounge side than his usual fare. Crystal clear, but not my style. 5. "Just For You" brings us the first singing on this compilation over another breakbeat. More melody and the undercurrent of a 303 gurgling beneath the surface. Not bad. 6. Sundial Aeon's album "Apotheosis" was awesome, so hopes are high for this one. I would say this had a far off, spacey feel with sounds floating over a crunchy breakbeat. It's ok, but not what I would choose. 7. The track by Phutureprimitive has more singing, but it's soulful over a downtempo groove. It's slow and entrancing, but again not for me. 8. "We are symptoms of the kind of system we are living. And our appearance in the system...tells us about the system." Kliment supplies a steady downtempo groove with pensive pads and glass like leads. The variety of sounds increase as the track progresses but it never sounds too busy. When the music gets to the above sample, the track changes direction and really flourishes. My favorite here. 9. This sounds a LOT like something Aes Dana would do. Soft tones above a glitchy percussive element. Unfortunately, I found the beginning to be the most captivating part of the track. 10. Omnimotion remix and Irina Mikhailova track with piano and trip hop sensibilities. Again, there is more singing (that is what Irina does!) but with a breathless, sad quality. This is the shortest track and is a good way to end the compilation. Well, what can be said, but this was a decent compilation. If you are looking for beatless ambient, keep on walking. If you are looking for middle eastern themed downtempo, also keep walking. However, if you are searching for some singing amidst music that can go from reggae to breakbeat to downtempo to trip-hop, then you have come to the right place. I have heard better compilations and also a LOT worse. Worth a listen, definitely. Mdk

Artist: Various Album: Relax Mode - Placid Chill Grooves Label: Blue Tunes Recordings Year: 2008 1. Lauge & Baba Gnohm - The Perfect Stranger 2. Forest Effect - Unconscious Reality 3. Erot - Lonely On A Friday Night 4. Koan feat. Krusseldorf - Rainfall 5. Symphonix - Drops In Your Eyes 6. Koan - The Last Samurai 7. Erot - Scent Of A Girl 8. Kanc Cover feat. Koan - Cosmic Spores 9. N.O.K. - Le Roi Est Mord, Vive Le Roi I needed a relaxing disc to listen to after being stressed out and this fit the bill. Blue Tunes Recordings is responsible for putting out so much good music including the new Koan album When The Silence is Speaking which I reviewed. It is mastered by Tim Schuldt so you know it oozes quality. The tracklist is quite appealing including Koan on a couple of tracks. The cover is a simple pinkish red square with a guy relaxing in a hammock under a palm tree. 1. The first track is so sublime, it is truly peaceful. A downtempo dubby quality piece that painted a picture of a flame colored sunset amidst a cool, calming breeze. The end of another summer night. This is what I am talking about. 2. "Subject is 156 cm in length weighing 52 lbs. The corpse in advanced stages of decay and dessication. Distinguishing features include large ocular cavities, oblate cranium...indicate subject is not human." Nice X-files sample that starts the track over bleeps and whooshes but with a slow tempo. Soft pads hang in the air, as a choir whispers beneath an elusive flute that is ever so gentle. Add a gently plucked acoustic guitar and the summer ain't over yet. 3. Metal clankings amidst a wet basement belie a slow deliberate beat as stings dance nimble overhead. The break opens a melancholy window showing me that all may not be as it would seem. Pretty deep track. 4. Koan and his distinctive wall of sound. Tinklings over a slow beat as rushes and bleeps attack the senses. Smooth as always and keen melodies to relax me. 5. "An infected male exposed himself to sunlight yesterday. Now it's possible, decreased brain function, growing scarcity of food is causing then to ignore their basic survival instincts. Social de-evolution appears complete; typical human behavior is now entirely absent." This sample over an uncertain break makes me wonder if we can survive. Sad and beautiful at the same time. 6. This tracks sounds a lot like the other Koan offering, but when the product is that good, you buy in bulk. The piano gives it a new agey feel. I'm sure some might say this resembles Yanni a little to closely. 7. More upbeat, but quite short. The break is full of snaps and light percussion. Far away strings appear and this is very mellow, but due to its length, the track isn't allowed to grow. Still, good though if you're looking to chill. 8. Trip-hop with a purpose. We've got a full tank of gas, it's nighttime, and we're wearing sunglasses. The synth melody at 6 minutes seems shockingly out of place (the sound doesn't fit) but other than that very groovy. 9. Another short piece but effective. Floating, dreamlike flute over a recently destroyed kingdom. Choirs chant of the conquests of yesteryear with the promise of a return. One look at the battlefield littered with our dead makes me think otherwise. This was exactly what I needed. It is one of those albums you can listen to from start to finish. What you get is a truly smooth and chilled out experience. With headphones on the listener is transported to any peaceful place they wish to go. I cannot recommend this highly enough. Superb. :clapping: Mdk