Harald Nies - Magnetic Deflection

The title track provides a rather melancholy symphonic start with some really nice string sounds. A bright almost medieval melody rings out over the top as little rapid sequences shimmer away underneath. The mood changes completely as the drums come in and we bound forward, an excellent bass line giving still more oomph. It all has a rather prog rock feel to it and I'm reminded a little of Bjorn Lynne. Things come to an abrupt finish then a tinkling sequence takes us to 'Lightconversation'. Another sequence bounces over the top. Melodic pads and a steady rhythm become the main features. The whole thing is rather airy and joyous.

'Alpengluhen' begins with moody organ and strings. More like a requiem actually but stunningly beautiful. A sequence returns us to Electronic Music territory then, wallop, we are hurtling along on the back of a driving rhythm. Euphoric melodic stabs, further drum flourishes and a laser sharp lead take us to even greater heights. What a wonderful track. The best on the album so far. 'Harfentanz' starts with the most delicate of sequences which gently morphs as silken pads glide underneath. Another more substantial sequence falls into formation as the track continues to build becoming more rhythmic all the time, reaching a pinnacle as electric guitar skips over the top. 'Aqualin' really cranks up the pace as insistent drums charge through swirling sequences and a lovely traditional analogue sounding lead weaves a soft melody. Again it's a bit proggy but keeping at least one foot firmly in the EM camp. In the fourth minute rhythms depart and we are left with shimmering sequences and soft sighing pads before the drums return. This time however they are more sedate with a delicate melody leading the way. Soothing ethereal pads give 'Quantium' the most heavenly of beginnings. A really excellent rapid 70s style high register sequence takes things on, a bass sequence joining it whilst a lovely little melodic lead line weaves amongst the pulsations. Overall the feeling is gentle and relaxed. Lovely track.

A piano introduction to 'Nebula Sources' provides an effective foil to little guitar licks. The guitar gives way to electric organ but that also fades, momentarily leaving the piano as the main feature until a wonderful flute takes centre stage. The guitar makes a gentle return nearer the end. The whole track is simply blissful. 'OSC Trip' starts to increase the energy level with an intriguing twangy percussive sequence. It really starts to seep into the mind and provides excellent backing for the most superb oriental sounding cosmic lead line. Some ethnic type drums come in creating quite a spaced out psychedelic trip- the sort of thing I would have expected on one of Cosmic Hoffman's less meditative Mind Over Matter tracks. 'Between Stars and Ocean' is a very chilled out way to finish the album. It's all airy and shimmering. A bit like the sun rising above the horizon banishing a soft mist at the beginning of a new day full of promise.

Tracklist:
01.Magnetic Deflection 05:52
02.Lightconversation 05:40
03.Alpenglühen 11:39
04.Harfentanz 05:11
05.Aqualin 08:52
06.Quantum 04:56
07.Nebula Sources 05:15
08.OSC Trip 11:01
09.Between Stars And Ocean 04:10