Xabec – From The Archives 1999 – 2009 (CD Album – Hands)
Genre/Influences: Experimental, abstract, cinematographic.
Content: Xabec remains to me one of the most experimental- and abstracts projects from the Hands roster. It more appears to be sound research instead of a composition process. This album even accentuates the experimental side of Xabec’s work.
+ + + : Xabec is a sonic experience you going to like or dislike. There’s no real way in between expect if you like unique sound treatments. That’s precisely what this look into the archives has to offer. From icy, cellar music to a great sonic canvas made with little noises to overwhelming atmospheres the album covers a wide range of influences. I like the whipping sound manipulations running through “Apraxie” (live) and the disturbing sphere emerging at “Bombenflug”. I also have to mention the previously unreleased “Herdla”, which is a cool last track with an anguishing sound atmosphere.
– – – : I’m not that convinced about the live tracks revealing an ultra experimental/abstract approach. It sometimes sounds into pure improvisation while I’m missing a more ‘structured’ composition.
Conclusion: This ‘archives’ bring some rare- and previously unreleased songs into the spotlights and even for the very first time on CD-format. The fans will be satisfied!
Best songs: “Bombenflug”, “Snowline”, “Herdla”.
Rate: (6½).
Artist: www.facebook.com/xabec
Label: www.handsproductions.com / www.facebook.com/hands.official
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