4 VISIONS

My introduction to Zeuhl wasn't Magma, but Eskaton. This album is futuristic and epic, like a journey through the universe and back. It's a shame that this album isn't available on streaming services nor is well-known to the general public, but it does serve as one of the greatest presentations of Zeuhl in the genre's history. This is absolutely one of the definite essentials of Zheul. Like I said in my MDK review this is an epitome to the art of Zheul music.

The bass is the most notable instrument heard on this album, with consistent funky basslines on each composition. The drums are equally as impressive, too. The synergy of the two instruments give this album so much atmosphere and depth, tying this album its spacey vibe and hypnotic sound.

I absolutely loved how they stacked sound on top of sound in such a well-composed manner, always building with each sonic inclusion, never settling. It makes everything feel so open, and nothing is left out. And yet some of the sounds on here, like the rumbling oscillating bass lines, create such an ominous chaotic atmosphere, that this record manages a dichotomy of moods that makes for great listening. The opera vocals are another wonderful addition that add to the epic nature of the release. And the drums on this thing are unrelenting, taking some interesting rhythms from the great Bitches Brew to draw together frantic raves that work wonderfully in tandem with the constantly speeding bass to support some of the most original keyboard riffs I've heard on a Zeuhl record. And t he staccato nature of a lot of these riffs build a delightful tension that add even more energy to the already charismatic performances on this record.

To nitpick, sometimes the attempts at vocal harmony, be it fore- and backing vocals or keyboard and lead, come off as sort of sloppily thrown together, and become a little too much given what all is usually going on when they attempt it. Also I wasn't a huge fan of some of the brighter guitar licks that pop up arbitrarily on "Ecoute" that come off as unorganized and don't match the otherwise dark, claustrophobic nature of the track. Other than those minor gripes, this was a spectacular release with some VERY impressive builds that lead to even MORE impressive climaxes. 5.0 Quintessential to the Zheul subgenre.

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