TIMEWIND

Having paid his dues as a brief member of Tangerine Dream then Ash Ra Temple, Klaus Schulze set out on a solo career in 1972. Since then he has been highly prolific, releasing numerous albums of variable quality and appeal. For many, 1975 was when Schulze reached his creative peak, his fifth solo album "Timewind" often being cited as the best album of his career. While part of that popularity can doubtless be attributed to the fact that this album was distributed far more widely than any other early Schulze album, we should also acknowledge that it contains sounds and devices which were still largely unheard in the early to mid 1970's.

Consisting of just two tracks, each running to around half an hour, the album was certainly unusual for a time when the limitations of the LP format meant that most bands restricted their compositions to an absolute maximum of around 20 minutes.

The first of the two tracks, "Bayreuth Return" was recorded in a single take on a two track recorder. Racing synthesisers immediately lay the foundations for ambient synths and floating sounds to drift in and out. While the overall effect is relaxed the music can be listened to on different levels, either as a quasi-symphonic composition or as electronic wallpaper. On "Wahnfried" the sequencers are less in evidence, so the piece sounds even more ambient than its partner. The sound comes in waves and while referring to the overall effect as drone (not a derogatory term in this context by the way), there is less of an overt melody to "Wahnfried". Unlike "Bayreuth Return", "Wahnfried" is subject to more post-production, with multi-tracking being used to enhance the effect.

It probably goes without saying that those who enjoy the music of Tangerine Dream from around this time will also appreciate "Timewind". Given though that during his brief tenure with that band Schulze's roll was as drummer, it is interesting how well he adapted to the roll of composer and musician. In all, a highly rewarding way to spend an hour or so.

Share this KLAUS SCHULZE review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to Easy Livin
• Report this review (#493829)
• Buy KLAUS SCHULZE music online with PA partners
• Show all KLAUS SCHULZE MP3/Stream
• Go to KLAUS SCHULZE page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Timewind page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for KLAUS SCHULZE related discussions