The two-part Tangram was the result. This wasn't the TD of old though, where a two-track album would mean spacey, liquid improvisation around mellotron and sequencers. This is where, IMHO, the single most underrated TD lineup began in earnest as a sleek, melodic unit with updated electronics and much more structure to their longer pieces, almost like neoclassical movements. Tangram Set One and Set Two move through the gears of eerie ambience to sparkling melodies and driving sequences without wasting a single note. The version of TD that would go on to produce my absolute favourite live and studio Tangerine Dream albums was off to a flying start.
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| Tangram hits the record stores |
pw: sgtg
I'm not too sure about that underrated bit. Maybe amongst the dabblers, but I think quite a few of those who have actual knowledge recognize the Schmoelling era as the high water mark that it was.
ReplyDeleteI have such a (going on 40 years) emotional attachment to this one that the objectiveness might get a bit blurry, but I still feel this is one of their most "universal" works. (ie, you really need to be a contrary SOB to not at least like it a little, if not a lot.)
Nice Spinal Tap catch, btw. I remember noticing that too. :)
'Universal', definitely- even quintessential. Every time I listen to it I like something different. It's perfectly placed right at the start of a new decade too, a real statement of intent.
DeleteYup - this is my favourite TD album. Brilliant balance of spacey sonic ambience and TUNES
ReplyDeleteAt a time when they seemed to be a lot more structured yet still able to improvise(tho Zeit IS a huge favorite for it being so organic and dark).
ReplyDeleteThanks for the TD
ReplyDeleteMuito bom mesmo,valeu o post grande abraço.
ReplyDelete