NEW AGE OF EARTH

After he decided to leave AST, dear old Manuel went on his own like his mate KS. No one will ever know what they could have released together during the peak of their creativity. He went on his own and released this "New Age Of Earth". By himself, like an adult who doesn't feel the need to be surrounded by colleagues...

In a way it is somewhat a shame because while doing so, you lack the input of others while on the other hand you control the whole process of course. The music from this album is quite pleasant and should please any lover of electronic music. AST, KS and TD are of course easily identified while you listen to this album. And these are very good references IMHHO.

I would have loved more "true" guitar moments because the ensemble sounds rather keyboards oriented. The whole is wonderfully atmospheric, grandiose, pure and superbly full of relaxing music. The Palme d'Or for this latter consideration is by all means the mysterious "Ocean Of Tenderness".

I wouldn't say that this album is very original because it revisits elements from all the great bands I have mentioned previously. Still, I am quite found of this sort of music and can only recommend this work to electronic prog fans. This is a very good job, indeed.

The central piece is the long "Nightdust". And to be honest, it is really on par with the best of the likes I have been referring to earlier on. It is pure beauty, melody, and sweetness. The closing section is VERY emotional thanks to a sublime guitar break (finally).

Four stars.