HEADSCAN
PATTERN RECOGNITION

ALBUM ALFA-MATRIX RELEASE: DECEMBER 5, 2005 REVIEW: FEBRUARY 13, 2006


Headscan you might recognise, having previously released their debut “Shaper and Mechanist”. The Canadian duo are still very into electronic soundscapes, something which can be seen throughout this follow-up album.

The pace builds quickly through the first tracks – reaching breakneck pace by “Synchrony” – creating something of a cross between electro and early acid house, and eventually by the chorus, big beat – quite a heady mix! The very next track “Sentinel” picks up the baton and runs with it, turning into a sort of acidic Underworld track in parts, and very catchy it is too, the kind of track dancefloors were made for. “Permafrost” starts off in icy hell, but soon turns into a glacial electronic head pounder.

My only minus point might be the use of vocals across the album. Some of the tracks appear complete already, without the need for an extra vocal layer, which sometimes only serve to swamp some of the quality work that has been done. On some tracks it really works: “Sentinel” and “Dead Silver Sky” for example, but on others it detracts a little from the quality of the music and production.

The best track for me though is “Slipstream Monocraft” ; incorporating fantastic female sample use and just the right balance of vocals, making a very chart worthy electro track. The final track “Sunken World” is a bit unnecessary though, a typical ambient effort, which seems to be becoming a bit of a staple for this genre of music.

Of the 14 tracks on offer, very few are less than extraordinary. It would be nice to hear a few more of the instruments and less of the harsh voices now and again though.

MIKE WHYTE