PETE NAMLOOK & K. SCHULZE: THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOOG X

The long partnership between Klaus and Pete is now a bit over ten years old; and it resulted in as many albums (ten). I have to admit that this tenth one; instead of being a milestone is quite a second-rate one. It is especially true during the first half.

Extremely minimalist and boring during the first three movements, both men reorganized their minds for "Astro Know Me Domina Part 4" which is just superb. Just like in the good old days. This spacey song is seriously TD oriented and it is a jewel of electronic soundscapes: brilliant, really. What a relief!

The same good feeling prevails for the atmospheric and cold "Part 5". It is another classic by all means. We are literally bombarded into the early seventies and all its fascinating extravaganzas. What a nice moment!

Fortunately, the second half of this album is much better than its start. The closing number is another winner and should please any KS or TD fan. The last three songs are quite remarkable and balance this album into the good territories.

Three stars.