21st June 2012
Just when you thought you didn’t have to buy another CD for awhile, along comes “Catalyst” by Steve Brand, released June 2012 on Relaxed Machinery. It’s a must-buy!! If you haven’t already discovered Brand’s magical soundscapes, let me just say you should make a bee-line for the nearest computer or store and download (or buy the CDR version here at Hypnos) as much Steve Brand as humanly possible. Would it be going too far to suggest “this Steve” is the next “big Steve” (I think you know who I’m talking about) in the ambient world? His surreal soundscapes definitely tap into something primal, primordial, and enigmatic. While I find it difficult to identify with some of his press releases talking about the music having the power of personal transformation, I will say it is definitely powerful, and definitely temporarily transformative to your mind while it takes you to infinity and beyond.
“Catalyst” consists of four long-tracks of consciousness-expanding sonic prayers where space and time seem to stop. Canyon-deep synth chords expand, retract, and echo in gorgeous fashion on tracks like opener “Amniotic Light.” This album is definitely one of Steve Brand’s deepest and most satisfying works, maybe even his best to date! Another one to add to my “Best of 2012” list!!
Source – http://www.hypnos.com/smf/index.php?topic=5119.0