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Tycho
Awake
(Ghostly International)
4 Stars
With my generally conservative music taste, I wasn't expecting to like Tycho's second record but I've been pleasantly surprised.
Led by Californian Scott Hansen the three-piece band has created eight tracks of understated instrumental ambient music. The striking album cover hints at the sounds within - minimalist, carefully-crafted widescreen soundscapes. It's dance music alright but the guitars, bass and drums lend the album an indie-rock aesthetic.
Seemingly straightforward and bland on first listening, repeated spins reveal layers of intricate beats, unexpected melodies and subtle moods.
The opening title track starts off sounding a lot like The Edge's guitar build on U2's Where The Streets Have No Name while Dye's blissed out synths could easily be found on the KLF's classic Chill Out album.
At times melancholic, occasionally euphoric, Awake slides easily between being both comforting and freeing. One to listen to with headphones.
Ian Sinclair
