Ocean of Light is an excellent introduction into the music of A.D. Music, a label that has released a series of melodic electronica albums. While the CD is primarily a compilation of previously released tracks, it has a coherence defined by the label’s vision and style.
The largely instrumental tracks on Ocean of Light explore new age, melodic space music and chill out styles. The cuts share a relaxed vibe, and have an attractive surface without sacrificing depth. Label honchos David Wright and Robert Fox show up in several combinations and permutations, along with Bekki Williams, The Kobolt Project, Witchcraft, Enterphase, Raviv Gazit & Catalin Marin.
Several tracks stand out on the album. Code Indigo’s 24 AM is lovely, mixing new age orchestration with jazz-influenced piano. David Wright’s Beyond Paradise has the relaxing seaside vibe of Vangelis’ Oceanic, conjuring images of a beach paradise. Wright’s A Certain Malaise moves into chill out territory, combining modern percussion sequencing with laid back synth work.
Witchcraft’s tracks Ultraviolet & We Rest are vocal tracks that fall somewhere between gothic ambient and the French electronica of Air. Their tracks are stylish and imaginitive, and the vocals are atmospheric enough that they fit well with the instrumental tracks. Raviv Gazit’s Ov1 is another treat. Gazit builds his tracks on dance-friendly chill out rhythms, and spices them up with world influences and interesting synth work. His one short track here leaves you wanting more.
Callisto’s Elara showcases the group’s feel for classic synth music. The track combines Berlin-school sequencing with some symphonic electronica that should give frustrated Jarre and Vangelis fans a fix. If that’s not enough for classic synth fans, Enterphase dive deep into trippy sequencer territory with Snow Paths.
Romanian composer Catalin Marin contributes the final track, Postlude. This brief symphonic electronic track also recalls the work of Vangelis, complete with string synth, choir sounds and crashing cymbals. Marin has his own melodic flair, though, and makes the style his own.
Ocean of Light is a relaxing and rewarding introduction to the artists of A.D. Music. Fans of melodic electronica that are not familiar with the label will find this a great place to start. Don’t be surprised, though, if it leaves you wanting to hear more from A.D. artists!
Tracks:
- Sub Aqua
- Ocean of Light
- 24 AM
- Queen of Hearts
- Beyond Paradise
- In the Arms of Morpheus
- A Certain Malaise
- Ultraviolet
- And all Shall be Well
- OV1
- Code 14
- Water Music
- Stasis
- Elara
- Snow Paths
- Walking with Ghosts
- We Rest
- Postlude
