Mystical Sun “Energy Mind Consciousness”
(www.mysticalsun.com, 2008)
11 tracks, 63.13 mins
 
Somewhere between ambient, dub, downtempo and chillout music lies a place occupied by the likes of Global Communication, O head, and now Mystical Sun. It is a thoroughly immersive listening experience, designed to be played from start to finish. “Dune Oscillator” starts with low rumbles of sound and then a sweet electronic pulse that fades away and returns. A classic filter sweep moves in and out of the mix. Bass and beats are deftly folded in, enough to give your subwoofer a workout without overpowering the synths surrounding them. “Blue Lotus” drops into low gear, a moody atmospheric number with a slow, thumping beat. “Passage” features soothing choirs reminiscent of the classic closing track of Global Communication’s 76:14 album. Softly chirping birds in the background complete the relaxed dreamy feel. Deep rich bass tones add depth, carrying the music slowly along. “Departure” continues the atmospheric proceedings as lush electronic textures join gentle sparse beats. “Incense” has a strong eastern sitar twang to it. The disc progresses into surprisingly darker ambient realms, as on “Dark Energy” which percolates with haunting pulsing energy. “Expansions” conjures similar images of coldness and darkness, pulling us further into the depths. Next, gurgling floes of sound emanate from “Lava Tubes,” which also has some of the coolest tribal drumming. “Holographic Rain” keeps the chill and hypnotic feel but starts lightening things up considerably, then “Sanctuarium” brings us fully back into the light as a serene closer. Highly recommended.
 
© 2009 Phil Derby / Electroambient Space