THE CASTLE

Tangerine Dream created a series of albums with music based on the works of certain artists. 'The Castle' is based on the work by Franz Kafka, and is the last of that series. At this time (2013), Edgar Frosse and Thorsten Quaeschning were the two sole performers for this album.

The album starts off with 'Approaching Snowy Village' which has a light percussion and a nice, pensive feel to it, not really dark or slow, but somewhat atmospheric in its delivery and theme. After 6 minutes, the percussive sound disappears leaving just the thematic elements and a more minimal feel for the last 2 minutes. 'The Odd Welcome' is quite upbeat and in the beginning has some vocal effects. As it continues, it gets more melodic and is strangely cheery considering the material it is based on. As it turns out, the most accessible track on here is also the unique one on this album, as the other tracks are more laid back and atmospheric. 'The Unapproachable Castle' has a soft percussion with some tonal qualities, the melody is a bit more stately, yet dark and somber. 'The Apparently Lunatic Hierarchy' starts to match the material it is based on as it goes into a rhythm-less and anti-melodic sound which is laden with dark effects and ambient qualities. There is a synth loop deep in the mix. As the track continues, a melody does build but gets lost in the intensifying effects.

'Barnabas the Messenger' begins with a low range and middle range synth melody. A shaky rhythm begins, but remains at the moderate tempo that mostly permeates this album. Soft electronic beats and echoing guitar effects which eventually get more passionate carry the loose theme. 'Irredeemable Entity' and 'The Implicit Will to Meet Klamm' feature lighter percussion/synth loops with more discernable melodies, the latter being a bit darker, but also with a more driving rhythm. 'Desperate Neverending Longing' uses a stop/start rhythm pattern and a pensive theme. The rhythm later becomes more upbeat and intense as the track continues which is also a bit darker than the previous two tracks.

'Surrender and Adaption' utilizes a treated acoustic guitar sound that is quite nice. The rhythm is steady and ballad-like. It is quite beautiful and nostalgic. The synth mirrors the melody at times and other times just provides chords. The middle section is a bit darker, but the original theme returns later. 'A Place of Mercy' utilizes a tonal percussion and a dark, yet warm theme.

I was actually hoping this album would be a bit more experimental, but it is at least more on the pensive side. The percussion is mostly light throughout, except for the two tracks that are on the upbeat side, and that electronic automatic percussion is not as organic as it is when its lighter and slower. But, overall, it is still a better sound than some of the more pop sounding albums. It is very relaxing and can be used as background music, and it is also still good enough for listening and enjoying. In the end, its not TDs best, but its still better than some.