RUBYCON

1975's RUBYCON provides more mesmerizing "music that melts" from German keyboard trio Tangerine Dream's classic lineup of Froese, Franke and Baumann. While somewhat less memorable that its predecessor PHAEDRA, this album is nonetheless a very important one among the band's 70s output.

Some -- especially, I suspect, younger and newer listeners who are used to more dynamic prog -- will find this music to be "boring." There is some validity in that viewpoint: this is not music that lends itself well to being "front and center." RUBYCON, and others of its ilk from TD's early incarnation, certainly does not "grab the listener by the ears," or demand your undivided attention. Rather, this is true "mood" or "head" music -- the ideal aural ambiance for unwinding and laying back on the couch with your eyes closed, as you let the soundscapes gently wash over you. As I said in my review of PHAEDRA, you can also stare at your lava lamp (turn it on first, though -- you'll get better results), read, make love, and/or snooze with this on. If you don't pursue any of those "activities," this is probably not the stuff for you....

For all other fans of classic 70s keyboard music and/or "new age," RUBYCON would be an excellent addition to your collection of mood-enhancing music. But remember: it's for the couch, not the car!