Steve Moore - Primitive Neural Pathways/Vaalbara

  by Maarten Schiethart

published: 25 / 8 / 2011

Label: Static Caravan
Format: CD

intro

Turbulent-sounding electronica on uncompromising double album reissue from New York-based electronic musician and drone artist, Steve Moore

Not to be confused with R. Stevie More, this 2CD is the re-issue of two earlier US releases from Steve Moore; one that has two drone compositions spread over two sides of an original LP and another that is more of an LP with five tracks in total. The total time length would be sufficient to make up one CD, but the original formats are simply transferred from LP to CD, maintaining the balance in fine style. The double CD meanders through the electronic spectrum in a way, that is eager to please, but at the same time is totally uncompromising. This gives 'Primitive Neural Pathways' much of its restless soul. The aural delight found in its pathways is immense, but alas very predictable as well. Just perhaps, however, that is what Steve Moore was aiming at. As we are being lulled asleep, 'C Beams' comes as a wake-up call. The hauntingly beautiful melody line explains it all for itself, whilst borrowing a few lines from Deutsch-Amerikanische Freundschaft. Full-on breezy electronics that pay even greater tribute to the days of Neu! and Kraftwerk begin the flipside, and is the title track, of Steve Moore's original debut LP. Hijacked in space by Thunderbirds, Gremlins or by whatever, we're now bolted into space. There is a big, bassy and breezy element of revenge on 'Primitive Neural Pathways' - charmingly capturing easy tune synths and genuine compositional lines at the same. Perhaps the best way to describe the second half of the 'Primitive Neural Pathways' LP is as an instantly appealing synthesizer composition which would leave Jean-Michel Jarre feeling very jealous. And R. Stevie More very proud. Mais, zut-alors; the second disc in this package, 'Vaalbara', shruggs off all burdens. 'Part 1' partially destroys any elements of sophistication in a display of white noise erasure which sounds like the tundra like winds about to change. Part 1 of 'Vaalbara' resembles the relentless Siberian cold, wind and aural torment, but, when caught on the inside, offers a predominant warmth. Part 2 of 'Vaalbara' on the other hand, deals in sounds of transformation and progress. It is as if the seasons have opened up in various continents. The electronic drone is fierce enough to withstand any typification. It's a merry brainwash. Time-consuming braintronics offer a free white-wash!

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