Soundscapes And Modern Tales - Shaffel
Shulman
This oddly-titles, oddly-packaged and (spiritually) oddly-scented release from Shulman is a delight. Whether you like to think of it as one mans soundtrack to an increasingly crazy world, or (like me) you prefer to think of it as music made by some kooky alien chaps (like the Star Wars Cantina Band messing about with Cubase), its quirky headiness and rootsy beauty are magic. On tunes like Small Grey Creatures and Avant Garden, Shulman creates a sublime unfolding atmosphere and almost manages to out-Shpongle Shpongle. He brings in huge beats (Aion), trip dub (Take A Walk Outside) and even offers half a nod to the dancefloor (fromage). Overlook the nasty taste of Jan Hammer-esque vibraphone in Shigo, and instead divert your spliffy attention to the filtered arpeggios, cut up vocals and cute dubby reflections that make this an album to soak up and enjoy. The fractal alien chorus singing yogic mantras (really) on Elements will make you weep, and the knowing and meditative groove throughout this album is world class. Love it.
Source: http://www.psyreviews.com:80/reviews/april142002.htm
