Parallel Worlds - Shade:

Fans of analog sounds will no doubt be familiar with the work of Bakis Sirros and his musical project Parallel Worlds. On previous discs Siros has demonstrated a strong technical understanding and talent for analog manipulation, and with the release of "Shade" Siros firmly establishes himself as an extraordinary sound sculptor, creating dense and lush music through sequenced patterns and highly sophisticated tonal structures and forms.

The track "Frightening Frontiers" opens the disc, a fast-paced piece that establishes a tension that can be felt throughout the release. Abrupt shifts in direction work nicely throughout the song, complementing established themes that act as a constant identifier for the listener while being moved through new locations and environments. The later track "Urgency" follows a similar form, opening with a mysterious vocal and leading into a frantic percussive rhythm where occasional tonal stabs add a particular drama to the track. Over its course, "Urgency" changes direction a couple of times, but retains a steady feeling of presence that links the different movements in a very successful way.

Siros is equally skilled in creating beautiful melodic pieces on "Shade" as well, demonstrating not only his technical proficiency, but also an impressive understanding of texture and mood. The track "Entities" is a beautiful melodic
electronic piece where layers of sound build on a steady pulsing beat to create a very appealing framework. Adding some nice arpeggios and bell sounds to the mix, Siros creates a very tastefully layered track that is quite inspired. Title track "Shade" also stands out as a particularly appealing track, beginning with a slight piano melody and gradually adding in light percussive elements and a slow drone. As the track continues the soundfield gradually opens up, gaining in complexity and sophistication, with phrases being redefined through repetition.

Listening to "Shade", I can't help but recognize Siros' immense talent and artistry. The carefully created soundscapes on this disc present him as an artist who cares deeply about detail and space within his work, who can successfully take the listener through a wide range of environments capturing multiple emotions and feelings. I've enjoyed Siros' music as Parallel Worlds for some time now, and on "Shade" he surpasses all my previous expectations and sets a new standard of excellence in my mind.

rik - ping things

http://pingthings.blogspot.com/2009/07/shade-by-parallel-worlds.html