S.A.W.: Hydragate

Here is another fine album from a project I have been previously unfamiliar with. S.A.W. is an acronym for Schmoelling, Ader, Waters, and Merz. The band is based out of Munich, Germany and released their debut album titled Iconic in 2020. Their latest disc Hydragate is a mix of ambient, electronica, and progressive electronic music that sounds absolutely fantastic. Folks, these veteran musicians really deliver the goods and I am hard pressed to find a track I did not thoroughly enjoy.

The players include:
Johannes Schmoelling (Tangerine Dream)
Kurt Ader
Robert Waters
Andrew Merz (Weltklang)

No instruments are listed but suffice to say electronics and synthesizers form the basis of the band’s sound. Sound manipulations are courtesy of Ader, and Merz plays a large role in samples and electronics. And of course Schmoelling adds his distinct synthesizer and keyboard sounds with his former band seeping through the soundscape on numerous occasions.

The cinematically pulsating “Distant Memories� begins the disc with its trance like sequences, walls of synthesized sound, and riveting melodies. Certainly some Tangerine Dream-like moments in this one. A haunting background soundscape, shimmering keyboards, and ultra cool samples and effects make “Surface Illusions� another addictive listen. I dig how the sounds are so fluid between the different motifs, giving the tune a wonderful overall flow. “Sphere� is both dramatic and calming with the distant processed vocals adding another layer of synthesized sound dynamics. The title track flows gently at the start with its sweeping and majestic synths and deeper sonic textures. A crystalline keyboard melody soon takes hold, easily keeping my full attention. The mesmerizing “Inside Out� ends the disc with dramatic flair showcasing the band’s exemplary synthesizer work. Presumably Schmoelling puts his stamp on this one.

I enjoyed Hydragate immensely and I suggest any and all fans of electronic music give this a spin as soon as possible. A superb work of art!

A MIG Music release.

Track Listing:
1. Distant Memories (4:47)
2. Surface Illusions (5:38)
3. Sphere (6:16)
4. Stop And Go (3:58)
5. Hydragate (5:40)
6. Whispering Colours (4:37)
7. Master Of Time (5:57)
8. Falling Down (4:24)
9. Human Greed (4:14)
10. Inside Out (6:11)

Added: November 11th 2024
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Label's Official Site
Hits: 121
Language: english

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