DMC World Magazine

BRAINCHILD
SYNFONICA
SCHALLBAU

During the 90s, Frankfurt-based Eye Q records thrust forth the prototypes on which the whole progressive-trance thing was built. It prodded me to coin the phrase ‘trance trousers’. This string of rippling gems seduced dancefloors worldwide and now original instrigators Ralf Hildenbeutel, Stevie B-Zet and A.C. Boutsen are reactivating back catalogue highlights while bringing contemporary remxes to add 21st century flavours. ‘Synfonica’ was – as the title suggests – an exercise in marrying classical strains with the trouser groove. The flickering, fugal organ may recall Rick Wakeman but it was done with warmth and propulsion at the necessary high bpm-age. Anthony Rother’s new treatment slows it down and homes in on the textures rather than the arpeggios. It’s about time this label was given its due. I would’ve kicked off with ‘Verrnon’s Wonderland’ but this is a good start.

4 Out Of 5

Reviewed By: KRIS NEEDS