Dave W. Hughes ("Modern Dance")

One thing can be said about "Electroshock Records" without any fear of contradiction, and that's they're one hell of an interesting electronic label. I'd be the first to say that not all their releases have hit the mark, that would be, frankly, impossible, but all credit is given to them for not sticking to a winning formulae. It's only recently I finished the mammoth task of reviewing their last batch when bang! another five arrive. Not that I'm moaning, anything from this label is always a welcome addition. Valery Siver and Kiryll Trepakov's "Midway" (ELCD 035) had me hooked straight away. I think it was down to the instruments used on the opening track, "N-Tro". As crazy as this sounds, it reminded me of "Hatfield" - it definitely has that 'Canterbury' feel, which is crazy because both composers are Russian! Also, the rear CD piccy and the inside one of the abandoned farm really helped the imagery. Classic opener, let's see what else happens.... Well, I'm not disappointed! "Stress", the second track is anything but, and combined with "Hot Wind" (what a title!) is like a stroll along a towpath with willow trees dangling in the water, a true ambient experience. What I do like about this album is the occasional use of electric piano that reminds you of those Sepia tinged bygone days of classic "Hatfield" and "National Health". There's twelve tracks in all, each one around four to five minutes long, and there simply isn't a dull one. Maybe it might be a bit twee for some hard core electronic fans, but I find it a gentle departure from being challenged all the time with darker pieces. A really nice album.

Dave W. Hughes ("Modern Dance")