Blank & Jones – Substance

‘Substance’ is the BEST Blank & Jones album, period. It is in total opposition to any ignorant claims of “stagnancy,” instead, representing the creative climax of the group’s tr00 trance era (which sadly albeit perhaps appropriately, ended here), even closing with a portending gesture towards the ‘Relax’ series of Chill (as well as offering a cyclical summary of this album) all in one move. Here, the emperors of Deutsch electronica honed an effortlessly melodic sound of dreamlike erotica (though pressed with utmost class and balanced with strong basslines). Generating a sexually themed work sans vulgarity and / or degeneracy is no easy feat but Blank & Jones does so admirably with a positive, nurturing aura of uplift (providing the light in contrast to the [Darkness] of ‘Nightclubbing’). Together, this duology is of immediate priority for any Trance enthusiast. ‘Elve’s Cry,’ in particular, is an unequivocal aural orgasm and arguably, their top track.

Aside from two fillers (“D-Battery” and “Golden Moon”), ‘Substance’ is front to back Grade A material in holistic breadth and vision, undoubtedly a highlight of the genre’s golden age, tailing the waning end of the second wave.

Not really an impressive Album, nonetheless a satisfying release, musics here are very progressive and not exactly something to sing along. Like i said, themes here are not very powerfull but they will get through your ears with satisfying sounds.

I think the two German DJs are in a "stagnation" of ideas and style. The albums "DJ Culture" and "Nightclubbing" had in general good tracks, different in style and original. Listening to "Substance" I have always the sensation to have already heard almost all tracks...they sound very similar :-( A good track is "Eleve's Cry" ,I like it and it's the typical B&J sound. But may be Blank&Jones should think about the sounds they produce : YOU NEED SOME NEW STUFF,IDEAS AND STYLE !!