Collection 3 : blending
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various artists
I usually find compilations a mixed bag, but every once in a while a label
shows a real knack for doing it right, for example the long-defunct
Lektronic Soundscapes label with its excellent Soundscape Gallery series of
three CDs, all of them first rate with no filler whatsoever. I would
definitely put Databloem's Collection 1: Opening, Collection 2: Moving, and
now Collection 3: Blending in that same category. Even with ambient
electronica such as this, it's nice to start a disc with some energy, and
Waki delivers with "Norders," scratchy glitchy fun with a strong backbeat.
Jason Corder's "Steam Tunnels" bubbles and percolates, eventually forming a
steady rhythm as well, though a bit more low key. This one develops
particularly nicely, smoothly exploring a variety of layers in a short time
frame. Mellower is "Die Reflection" by Krill-Minima, marked by unique sparse
panning percussion and soft edges. This sets and maintains an extremely
pleasant mood, thoroughly relaxing and cool. Next is "New Morning" by Lingua
Lustra (Albert Borkent), a unique blend of structured and abstract that is
hard to describe. Then comes the first-ever music I have heard from
Venezuela, ambient or otherwise, courtesy of Mendigo (Renzo Peressi). He
says he gets his musical inspiration from everyday sounds and the result,
while somewhat spartan, is fresh and inventive. I could spend many more
words writing about the other excellent musicians that comprise the rest of
this CD; suffice to say it is all the same high-caliber cutting-edge
ambience I've come to expect from this label, with a variety of familiar and
new names from around the world. By the way, I already have a name for
Databloem's next set - Collection 4: Excelling.
( Phil Derby / Electroambient Space )
