CD, Aliens Production, 2011
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This new signing to Aliens Production brings somewhat similar music stylings as other releases on the label, though it’s a bit less dark than the usual fare. You would be hard pressed to guess the sounds emanating from this album if you were to rely solely upon its title, “Intro/Version”.
The release showcases moody atmospheric instrumental pieces, but also brings in some very strong (and often distorted) beats and rhythms that are wonderfully engaging, easily grabbing attention. A few dark atmospheres are presented here, however, ‘slightly dark IDM’ would be a more appropriate description of this music, rather than classifying this as a dark ambient release.
“Intro/Version” conjures up images of alien landscapes or otherworldly scenarios, but it also gives of the sensation of isolation or aloneness to the listener. There is minimal use of samples, but the ones that are present add to this overall atmosphere. There is also a sense of beauty and sadness encompassed in these tracks, along with a hint of harshness.
This album is very good at stirring up the imagination and filling its listeners with a wide range of visions through many of its tracks. With “Earth Without Humans”, you can easily envision waves crashing from the ocean and washing onto a empty shore. On “Exit of Emergency” you can imagine being on a barren, alien planet walking in the mist of an early morning. You will also find very soft pieces here that can overwhelm with gloom and sorrow, like “There Is No Leak” and “Wandering Ghosts”.
Though “Intro/Version” could easily find its way onto any dance floor, it’s more of a headphones type of release. You need to really concentrate on the music to catch the full flavor and all the little nuances on here. This is a very promising and well-executed debut of slightly dark and melancholy IDM music that is excellent in using the listener’s mind as a canvas to paint beautiful, unearthly and lonely imagery.
[7.5/10]
— Kevin Congdon