PICTURE MUSIC

Klaus Schulze is a Krautrock icon and phenomenal synthesist, firstly drumming (!) for the incredible Krautrock bands 'Tangerine Dream, then 'Ash Ra Tempel', and what an amazing individual is he. 'Picture Music' is, what I think, his 'meisterwerk', not only utilising various early synthesizer technology, but actually *understanding* it. Side 1 , 'Totem', is an ambient soundscape, a near 24 minute 'otherwordly' atmosphere created by Klaus, formed out of percussive synth sequences, and drifting synth chords. The equipment stated on the back cover is : an EMS Synth 3 - sounds, ARP odysee - strings/percussion and a Farfisa Organ, as well as an acoustic drums set-up, which brings us to the second side - 'Mental Door', which is a more energetic piece, starting with brooding organ chords and sweeping synth effects, building to a frenetic frenzy of lead synth and manic drumming, the way only Klaus and precious few other progressive German musicians can create. Whilst some people prefer his more layered and involved work ( which is, for the most part, at least 'excellent' - although I only own albums up to 'Audentity'.) I am constantly amazed at the excitement this album generates - 5 star rating, no less !!!