Tangerine Dream - Mala Kunia (2014)

The final era of Tangerine Dream's musical output, known as the "Quantum Years", begins with "Mala Kunia". Gone are long-time bandmembers, Iris Camaa, Linda Spa and Bernard Biebel. In are Ulrich Schnauss and Hoshiko Yamane. Gone are the acoustic and wind elements and in is a return-to-form of pure electronics. Founder Edgar Froese has stated in a recent interview that TD will come to an end in 2017 which will mark the band's 50th birthday.

This first entry into the Quantum Years is a great way to mark the beginning of the end. Each piece is pure ear-candy; moody, melodic, atmospheric, rhythmic, and evocative; everything that TD has been known for since their early days. The "theme" of this release is the Aboriginal tribes of the Australian Outback. Ethnic and cultural overtones of the continent known as "Down Under" are subtly blended into most of the tracks to give the listener a unique experience.

There is nothing "mind-blowing" on this release, but it is definitely a feather in the cap of TD's lengthy discography and a very enjoyable listen. Hopefully, this is a sign of good things to come before the band calls it quits in 3 years.

Tracklist:

1. Shadow and Sun (7:54)
2. Madagaskunia (6:51)
3. Madagasmala (7:04)
4. Beyond Uluru (7:49)
5. Vision of the Blue Birds (8:39)
6. Snake Men's Dance at Dawn (5:51)
7. Power of the Rainbow Serpent (8:03)