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review by Dene Bebbington "Experiments in deep thought" is how Observation Point describes itself. I'm not sure who the artist is behind this name, all I can find out is that it seems to be one man from South Wales. In style Geometer is a little like Carl Matthew's Life Force in that it explores several ambient territories, but is less eclectic and more cohesive on the whole. The album comprises eleven tracks in the one to just over twelve minute range, with most being over five minutes. The majority of these have some rhythmic elements, and a few pieces tend towards the experimental end of the ambient spectrum. The first track is quite a foot tapper, "Haeomdynamics" begins with mysterious reverbing synths and drones as a prelude to a dancing syncopated rhythm along with a melody sounding as if it's played on something like an accordion. Over the course of this track the rhythm and melody becomes more urgent making this an attention grabbing start to the album. By the third track "Plinth" there's a change in emphasis as the mood becomes more sombre. A slow (electric?) piano repeats a refrain as spooky sounding synth drones in the shadows, and occasional bell sounds add an air of mystery. Then around halfway in the piece changes when crashing drum and tambourine sounds take over only to subsequently give way to a drum 'n' bass denouement. My favourite track on the album "Brugel Artefacts" breaks from the mould since it's an excursion into long form flowing/drifting ambient territory. Ever droning and reverbing synths glide on past the listener giving the impression of walking through an alien landscape, indeed, one sometimes hears strange squawking sounds which one could imagine are alien creatures. Near the end a forlorn melody comes in that only adds to the strange atmosphere that the listener is enveloped in. If Geometer is a case of "experiments in deep thought" then in my opinion the experiments have mostly been successful, certainly there are enough good tracks to make this an album worth getting hold of by those who like predominantly rhythmic ambience. |
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