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"Synth" by Terry Campbell
"Synth" is only $15.00CAN plus $3 shipping anywhere in the world!
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Terry Campbell "Synth"
A fascinating study in tonal landscapes created by a blend of synth tones and live percussionTerry Campbell's release "SYNÞ" (pronounced "Synth") is a fascinating collection of abstract textures and sounds. Seemingly random and haphazard at times, it ultimately creates an order and shape that brings to mind the early days of synthesized music in the 50s and 60s. Recorded using a blend of live percussion and analog synthesis, "SYNÞ" is an excellent example of electroacoustic ideals. Eponymous track "SYNÞ" opens the disc, setting the scene with a dark and cinematic piece that pairs a dark, shuffling melody with a shifting rhythm to create an unsettling piece of theatrical ambience. Chimes and bells are added to the mix, bringing to mind a particular retro sound that wouldn't be out of place in the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. By contrast, "Prelude" begins with a steady drone that branches out in a variety of directions, shaping itself into a latticework of sound that flows and shapes around itself to create a lush soundscape where sounds mix and mingle and double back on themselves. Later tracks present a variety of interesting and unique soundscapes in keeping with Campbell's musical ideals. "Monantique" uses a windy tone to establish an alien space where sounds bubble and high pitched tones whistle, and the occasional cymbal crash punctuates the soundscape. "Experimental Life" adds a bass-y tone to the proceedings and a steady percussion to create a mutated rock 'n' roll track that both haunts and appeals. In a similar vein, "tcv/GATE" uses a slow brushed drum kit with some abstract electronic sounds. It's a nice blend, one that I appreciate for it's jazzy influences. And of course I would be remiss if I didn't mention "Buzzard Skin Hat", a particularly ominous track that matches it's title, a high oscillating drone paired with a brushed drumkit creating a dark and menacing atmosphere. I'd say this is the one that stands out the most for me, a dark and sinister piece of music that establishes a time and a space for the listener. I've always appreciated music that takes chances and strays away from the beaten path. "SYNÞ" is definitely an album that takes a number of chances, the end result being a satisfying and engaging study of abstract forms. Subtly manipulating the listener's sense of order and taking us to new spaces with unique sounds and forms, "SYNÞ" is a disc well worth discovering. rik - ping things
last updated 09/04/11
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