Thelen, Stephan: Fractal Sextet

The original design for Fractal Sextet was to get this band into a room and record, but due to the Covid pandemic this became a file sharing project. I was drawn into Thelen’s musical web after hearing Fractal 2, and have been anticipating getting my chance at this one. Rich soundscapes draw you in as the sonic explorations swirl around you. If you can take the time, turn the lights down low (or out all together) and just listen, I promise you will be captivated. “Zetroscope� opens the CD and the atmospheres are beautiful, Colin Edwin’s (ex-Porcupine Tree) heartbeat like bass lines, the percussive backdrop and floating piano lines draw you in. “Fractal 5.7� has a Crimson flavor; ghostly swirls soar around the guitar lines and tapping rhythms. The lead guitar work is perfect; adding texture and flavor to the layers underneath. Not to sound corny, but this music provides an escape if you allow yourself to be immersed fully. “Planet Nine� forces itself on you with a purposefully repetitive undertow of bass and drums initially, but blossoms with beautiful guitar and keyboard tones as the song progresses and the drums drive harder and becomes quite powerful. The closing “Slow Over Fast� offers an interesting rhythmic backdrop to the guitar and keyboards that flow over the top.

We are usually drawn to music based on our moods. Thelen’s music offers me an escape; I am completely absorbed and captivated every time I listen to his music. Do not dismiss what this music has to offer, it is intriguing and full of new sounds with each listen. Hauntingly beautiful from start to finish.

Track List:

1. Zeptoscope
2. Fractal 5.7
3. Planet Nine
4. Mise En Abyme
5. Slow Over Fast

Added: November 8th 2022
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Artist @ Bandcamp
Hits: 367
Language: english

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