Reviews - ALbums
Stefan Goldmann
the transitory state / voices of the dead (2cd)
released: September 2008
label: MACRO
what do we think: enrapturing - don't miss out!
written by Liz Cirelli
Those familiar with the works of Stefan Goldmann will already know that herein lies a producer that follows no rules – he chooses to make them. Exquisitely unique, delightfully delicate – and always with undertones of mischievous creepiness, his music never fails to surprise and impress. CD 1, The Transitory State, contains a collection of Goldmann’s works during the period 2005-2008. Do not judge the album for its lack of new material – each and every track has been carefully edited and arranged exclusively for this release. The result? A truly magnificent journey through Goldmann’s world of mysterious musical delights. The album commences with the track Lunatic Fringe - a sparse and understated track, infused with beautiful, haunting choral samples. Gritty saw-tooth stabs weave their way in and out of the track, forming a wonderful contrast to the delicate bass and percussion. Track 5 – Aurora, begins as a quirky, minimalistic dance track, but midway through suddenly evolves into an ambient soundscape, preparing the stage perfectly for the awesome Sleepy Hollow. The fantastic descending modal sequences and shimmering synths still send shivers down my spine. This track certainly deserves a revival! Phraselab follows – masterfully hypnotic and tribal, with an off-beat bass line that’s as infectious as the flu. Intricate percussion patterns twitter and tease at the top end of the track, forming a playful, almost insect-like layer. Bribe is reminiscent of Sleepy Hollow, with a mischievous little hook that you just can’t stop humming. Last Wave is glitchy, minimal and darkly atmospheric, hinting at what is to be expected of CD2. CD2, Voices Of The Dead, is a collection of 7-inches that were released as a 5-record limited edition box set. Exploring the world of experimental electro-acoustic programming, this CD contains a collection of ambient soundscapes. Stark, metallic sounds are melded with brooding, blubbling synths. Do not expect anything musical from this CD – this part of the album focuses much more on the exploration of sounds and space. If you like staying up and working through the night, this will be a perfect accompaniment for you. Interestingly enough, Turret was used by Richie Hawtin as the introduction sequence to his DE9 Transitions mix. It was also commissioned by the Bibliothéque Nationale de France for the IMEB Phonothéque public collection.
Tracklist – CD1
01. Lunatic Fringe
02. Prefecture
03. Radiant Grace
04. Aurora
05. Sleepy Hollow
06. Phraselab
07. Beluga
08. The Bribe
09. Blood
10. Last Wave
Tracklist – CD2
01. Silt Trench
02. Antisyntax
03. Crossreference
04. End Of The Road
05. Izo
06. Turret
07. Markers OF The Black Lit Path
08. Ptolemaic Drift
09. Massenbach
10. Katorga
