Xan Alexander - Star Dark

Xan is one half of The Omega Syndicate so as you would expect this album is sequencer dominated but the tracks are shorter and more structured. We begin with the ominously titled 'Dark Angel'. A sequence rises and falls in pitch through the mix. A second one joins it, as does a powerful bass rhythm. This is very exciting stuff which got my whole body moving within seconds of the track's start. A lead line flashes over the top then even more rhythm is introduced as things reach fever pitch. Additional sequences come and go. It is amazing how much is packed into under ten minutes. A superb opener. 'Psy-Gamma' is straight into a rather Jarre-ish groove with delicate leads hinting at Vangelis hitting the spot beautifully. Another sequence is added and things take a somewhat meaner turn.

'Wind Chill Factor' has a lovely brooding start. Waves of sound ebb and flow across a desolate landscape. A mournful lead line adds to the mood then a superb sequence and rhythm combination take things forwards in a powerful no nonsense manner. Then- wow! In comes another lead lines with one of the best melodies I have heard in a very long time. Air keyboard playing is essential. 'Hidden Secrets' bounces into life on the back of yet more sequences, windy synths and really excellent dark undercurrents. The pace quickens as a bass line rumbles into being with a contrasting splashing sequence accompanying it. Another stunning lead line sears the sky like a laser flashing from a rock in the middle of a tumultuous sea. It gets better and better full of pent up energy and emotion right to the finish with mellotron used sparingly but just at the right moments. What a fantastic track this would be played live! 'Telepathy' initially uses just slight touches of eerie sound that fade into the distance one after another. It is a very effective opening reminding me a little of some of the more atmospheric moments from 'Phaedra' or even 'Aqua'.

A slow stop, start, sequence is added in the second minute, creating a mood which could have come straight from the mid seventies. A second sequence and lead line are brought into play adding extra interest but without disturbing the subtle atmosphere. We return to rapid melodic sequences and foot tapping rhythms for 'Silent Running'. Yet more excellent lead lines (a real talent of Xan's) are placed perfectly in various levels of the mix to increase the excitement still further. 'Layla's Theme' is another track which deploys sequences right from the off. These are then combined with the mellotron and I am rather reminded of Peter Bauman but then the comparison alters with the introduction of a an insistent rhythm and even an 'epic' Mark Shreeve type lead line. It is the sort of track that would be ideal to accompany the climax of a Hollywood blockbuster. It might be the shortest track on the album at under five minutes but it is yet another highlight. 'Damage Report' actually has a much happier bouncy feel to it than would have been expected of such a title, little melodic motifs skimming wonderfully from the sequences. It is also another highly infectious body mover, my feet darting this way and that in time to the drums. The feel good factor continues on into 'Dream Force'. Another memorable melodic lead line shines like sunlight reflected from mirrors over an exciting syncopated backing. The pace surges and subsides as the rhythms and leads change from one moment of pure brilliance to the next. Another fantastic number. We finish with the title track. Fizzing electronic effects mix with some subtle dark tron playing. A high register sequence provides an excellent contrast as slow brooding percussion adds a sense of unease. Ominous bass rhythm is added oozing attitude. In the fifth minute some wonderful Tangerine Dream style melodic stabs give that finishing touch which makes the track sound like a mix of 'Thief' and 'Exit'.

This album has so many stand out tracks that it is impossible to choose a favourite. If you are into upbeat melodic music with plenty of sequences you should love it.

Tracklist:

01.Dark Angel (9:26)
02.Psy-Gamma (5:07)
03.Wind Chill Factor (6:38)
04.Hidden Secrets (8:11)
05.Telepathy (10:15)
06.Silent Running (6:28)
07.Layla's Theme (4:54)
08.Damage Report (8:25)
09.Dream Force (8:26)
10.Star Dark (9:55)