 |
|
 product info |
Reissue with 1 extra track*
Recorded at the Synergy Studio and at the House of Music, West Orange, New jersey, USA Produced, engineered, programmed by Larry Fast September 1977 till April 1978. Larry Fast - producer, all instruments except guitar synthesizer Peter Sobel - guitar synthesizer, associate producer (Robert Fripp is thanked for assistance in tape loop techniques on "Terra Incognita". Peter Gabriel is thanked for help with the titles.) |
 review |
The third Synergy album "Cords" is a more mature effort compared to the previous two, because there's more coherence in terms of composition and because of the fuller and better sound. Of all Synergy albums (apart from the later soundtrack to "The Jupiter Menace" of course, for which one of the tracks here was reused as the closing theme), this one has the most obvious connections with the themes of Space and SF often associated with EM. It was recorded inbetween various tours and recording-sessions with other musicians (like Peter Gabriel) and for the first and only time on a Synergy album, Larry Fast is joined by one such fellow musician called Pete Sobel on guitar synthesizer who also (co-) composes five tracks. Both in terms of sound and composition the music somewhat resembles that of Jean-Michel Jarre (for example "Rendez-Vous"), which means a strong, clear sound and big ideas inspiring highly charged, dramatic and sometimes emotional music. After a good introductory track, 'Phobos' and 'Deimos' really hit things off with some strong electronic percussion. More strong tracks follow, with the longest track 'Full Moon Flyer' being the emotional high-point of the album, although the beautiful closing track might as well lay claim to that. Mention must also be made of the dramatically titled 'Disruption In World Communications' which in fact is a rather light-hearted wacky sort of piece. In short, there's plenty to savour here on this real "tour de force" of an album, which might well be top of the list in the Synergy catalogue. 2000. Ivar de Vries |
 review |
Cords from 1978 abandons cover versions and brings in some guitar synthesizer (and co-composition) from Pete Sobel but otherwise adds little new to the mix. We are presented with the same blend of classical and melodic themes, effervescent sequencer drives, spacey sections and a touch of experimental electronics. Judged on it’s own merits, this is an enjoyable album I particularly like the throbbing Phobos And Deimos Go To Mars and won't disappoint hard core synth fans. It may not be an essential purchase for casual listeners, as it doesn't quite have the impact of the first two releases. The bonus track is a radio edit of Phobos. Cords : 7 out of 10 Dave Sissons |