This reissue of pioneering electronic artist Synergy, one of many coming from PolyGram Chronicles, is an interesting and entertaining mix. Audion opens with "Orbit Five," layering melodic runs and chords over percussion ... more »for a very progressive-rock result. "Terminal Hotel," a slow, heavily rhythmic piece with an atmospheric opening, is full of the cinematic drama that Synergy is famous for. There are several orchestral-sounding pieces as well, making one wonder what would happen if, for instance, the London Symphony took on the anthemic "After the Earthquake," the classically structured "Falcons and Eagles," or "Flight of the Looking Glass," which mixes classical and pop sensibilities. Knowing that Audion was originally recorded before the age of digital synthesis makes the results all the more impressive. --Genevieve Williams« less
This reissue of pioneering electronic artist Synergy, one of many coming from PolyGram Chronicles, is an interesting and entertaining mix. Audion opens with "Orbit Five," layering melodic runs and chords over percussion for a very progressive-rock result. "Terminal Hotel," a slow, heavily rhythmic piece with an atmospheric opening, is full of the cinematic drama that Synergy is famous for. There are several orchestral-sounding pieces as well, making one wonder what would happen if, for instance, the London Symphony took on the anthemic "After the Earthquake," the classically structured "Falcons and Eagles," or "Flight of the Looking Glass," which mixes classical and pop sensibilities. Knowing that Audion was originally recorded before the age of digital synthesis makes the results all the more impressive. --Genevieve Williams
CD Reviews
Closer to rock...
ADP | Washington, DC USA | 04/02/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Perhaps under the influence of Peter Gabriel (for whom he played keyboards), Larry Fast toned down his grand orchestral sweeps and focused on more succinct rock arrangements for this CD. The results were generally good, especially on the almost-heavy-metal "Revolt on L-5" and the more laid-back "Terminal Hotel." The most prominent sound on both of these tracks is the insistent electric percussion, which sounds like a rock drum set more than anything else. The grand approach is still evident on a few songs, especially "Electric Blue" (which goes on a bit long) and "Flight of the Looking Glass," which sounds like an outtake from one of Fast's earlier CD's (not that that is a slur). After this, the exoticism of "Shibolet" is another refreshing change. My favorite track, however, is the opener "Orbit Five," a wonderfully brief study that is like a haiku or a clever epigram."
Synergy's Magnum Opus
snowleopard | Oregon | 03/11/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Synergy's best album, and one of the truly best electronic instrumental synth albums ever made. All of Larry Fast's (Synergy) works are worthy, and they were certainly original, but this CD has the makings of a true masterpiece. There are elements of so many styles of music here, but all done in an aesthetic, harmonic way. Unlike so many electronic artists and albums of today, Audion contains not only listenable, plesant music, but challenging compositions. If you buy only one Synergy CD, make it this one."
The epitome of electronic compositional music
Paul3MT@neta.com | Phoenix, Arizona | 09/01/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This was the first Synergy album I ever heard, and it changed the way I listened to electronic music forever. There is a huge variety of music styles that Larry Fast puts on this record, but all make a distinctive musical impact on the listener. If you like Tangerine Dream and Jean Michel Jarre, you'll like Synergy a great deal."
The prehistory of Analog and Digital Synthesis
Diereck | United States | 03/29/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Larry Fast has always been an inspiration to all of us who work in the world of composition and synthesis. This album really stretches the limits of the imagination and yet it bridges the gap of classical and avante-garde techniques. Synergy has always been a vehicle for innovation and techniques in recording and synthesis. My favorite is "After The Earthquake" where he paints a facade of determination and unrelenting pride; the piece is fit for a seminar for success. Even with all the technology at hand (at that time) he never fails to realize that the melody and in whole, the composition is still the driving force behind an excellent piece."
Fantastic...
Scott_mars@csi.com | ohio, usa | 09/07/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I remember owning this album on vinyl and wearing it out 10 years ago. It provoked me into writing my own music. So I've spent the last 10+ years composing, inspired by this album. I am very pleased that Its being released again on cd."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1