After two albums by Robag Wruhme it was up to Ian Simmonds to release an album on Musik Krause. Kultus³ Mag got her hands on a copy and listened to it extensively, resulting in this review.

1 Non Military Intro

Twisted vocal introduction.

2 Sands Of Tunis

I would call this track the ideal soundtrack to any Sahara expedition. The percussive hook is very present, the synth in the background however sounds relaxed. The whole is very well produced.

3 The Esel

A more funky approach to dub. This track is build around a jumpy loop. As simple as sophisticated. Clever bridges and solos in between make the whole an interesting jigsaw of sound.

4 Rootz (Album Version)

This one I knew already as the 12″ version. An addictive piano chord dwells into your ears. The gentle vocals make your thoughts want to lift of the ground. Exciting!

5 The Castle Dub

Reminds me a bit of some of the early ambient stuff by Aphex Twin. The bassline of The Castle Dub is nervously uplifting what makes your feet want to tap dance all along. This track is just crazy.

6 Diver

Definitely my personal favorite. All individual elements of this merely accoustic track fit perfectly well in the mix. Diver builds up smoothly to result in an explosive climax. This track brings back energetic excitement into jazz. Excellent arrangement.

7 Speak

Speak characterises itself as phat and in your face. The vocals sound self confident and commanding. Don’t you dare loose attention while I speak! The phat bassdrum and ultra phat bassline make you want to blow up your hifi system. A laidback synth bridge let’s you breath here and there. Certainly not too much tough. Conclusion: You cerntainly don’t want to play this track on a first date. This is however a track for real men.

8 The Dog

Awkward deep atmosphere in this hunting track. Excellent groove.

9 Kon1

Kon1 is characterised by an opressive jungle-alike atmosphere which reminds me of hot afternoons in the shadow with an urgent need for hydration. This track

10 Downhome

Downhome is a straight uptempo and technoid beat which I suppose would fit very well to any modern day house floor.

11 Dance Of Dances

The synth in this track blends well with the guitar riffs. The broken beat rolls and swirlls around nervously, but exciting. One is almost forced to clap hands and tap the feet to the floor.

12 According Too

A late night drive home. Smooth saxophone licks and piano stabs dwell on the deep acoustic bassline as if mankind were depending on it.

13 Wendelstein Variations (Album Version)

Another proven 12″ take in an album context. A moody old man raps all along piano stabs and percussion. Neat finale of this merely accoustic trip into Burgenland.