"Quadranteon" by Jeffrey Koepper

"Quadranteon" is the latest release from Jeffrey Koepper, once again recorded using analog equipment that results in a very organic seventies feel. Divided into four long form pieces all sequenced together for continued listening, "Quadranteon" is a disc that captures the classic sound of electronic music as established by such notables as Tangerine Dream and Klaus Shulz. With a detailed gear list for each track "Quadranteon" does a wonderful job of celebrating the analog sound.

From the sweeping pads that open "Part I", fans of the space music genre will feel right at home. Thick synth sounds drift through the track, leading into a mesmerizing sequence pattern that spreads itself throughout the soundfield, making the most of the space to create a vibrant and vital sonic environment. Tones circle around, complementing and contrasting each other, constantly shifting and evolving. The sound changes with "Part II", a more understated track that's darker and more subdued, a slowly evolving piece of music where pacing is everything and the spaces between notes are just as important as the notes themselves. Repeated musical phrases create a bed over which new sounds and feelings develop. The original theme in this track is a simple repeated three note motif, but as time progresses it becomes more of a drifting sequenced piece, eventually turning into a slow and distant dream of itself.

"Part III" brings a sense of hope and optimism to the mix, a more uptempo feeling that suggests growth and rebirth. There are a series of movements at play in this long form track, with lovely flowing ambience making up the first segment of the track, through the sequenced synthwork of the second movement (a percolating synth masterpiece that captures the analog ideal brilliantly), ending with the third movement which retains the sequences of the second, taking them in a more relaxed and dreamy direction. "Part IV" closes the disc with a similar dreamy vibe, with oscillating drones paired with pads resulting in a chilled synth soundscape where wind-driven tones pass through the mix, eventually closing out the track.

Koepper's work has always impressed me, from his debut release "Etherea" through his later discs "Momentium" and "Sequentaria". With the release of "Quadranteon" he continues to display his passion for synths in an entertaining and engaging way, creating some truly awesome electronic work that both celebrates and builds on a classic style. Highly recommended!

rik - ping things

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