SYNTHROSPECTIONS 1 - HIDDEN CASTLES

This is the first of a long series of "Synthrospection" released by Daniel Biro starting from 2021 and probably still ongoing. It starts with the bell sounds wihich are a sort of trademark of this artist, in a progression of minor chords that counterbalances the "sweetness" of the bells. It's possible to catch the jazz roots of the early years of this artist, but this electronic suite has a particular mood, between a newage experience and a cinematic soundtrack.

The first 7 minutes flow seamlessly through the electronic piano chords then they are joined by strings keyboard and a flugelhorn sound. This section reminds to the first tracks of BLADE RUNNER's soundtrack, but only for the mood and the horny sounds. The passages are typical of Biro's music and his style is recognizable also in the collaborations with Colin Bass.

The transitions are smooth and the various parts may underline different states of mind. It's a trip, not intended as an acid one, but as the title says, an introspective travel through different sensations and feelings. The jazzy section that start after minute 15 is particularily interesting also from a technical point of view. The chords and the melody is backed by a sequence of few notes. A repetitive sequence at the level of the best TANGERINE DREAM.

Apparently the suite may have been designed for a vynil, as around minute 20 there's a little pause and a change. There's a sort of transition, but this is clearly different from what came before. The structure is still based on a sequence, but the sounds and the mood aren't the same.

Also this part is very enjoyable- The sequence has iys own rhythm so the absence of percussion is not a problem. There are more strings in foreground until a sudden stop starts a section made of minor chords and synthetic female choir. When it ends, the chords become more dissonant and the fast notes loose any possible melodic aspect. Few minutes and a bass sequence takes the lead. The ambient is now darker synth percussion are added together with some background electronic noises.

At 3/4 of the suite where it's going is now unclear. Three bass notes bring it back to more familiar jazzy soundscapes. It's a very pleasant part, There's a very smooth transition to another sequencer based base which brings a nice chords progression in. Then only the sequenced base remains and slows down progressively until it stops.

But it's not the end. Now the thing goes ahead at low volume, with some electric piano chords above the basic sequence. It's like a little music box is playing. One minute more and it's done.

Briefly, this is the kind of suite that lets you be transported. The different parts are so well transitioned, apart of the break at minutes 19, that it's like moving across different places in a single journey.

Use good speakers. Headphones may be too heavy.