Revelation - Chapter 2

Nobody who's heard Revelation's huge "First Power" could probably ever forget this epic tune. This, however, is the sequel and quite an interesting one to that, even though it is often overlooked and eclipsed by Mundo Muzique's and Andre Estrada's powerful first classic. Not quite as austere and dark as "First Power" or "Synth-It", "Odyssey Chapter II" makes a nice complement to Revelation's first release, though.

The sounds and arrangements are indeed still typical - trancey and intoxicating - yet this release as a whole sounds more playful and acidic than the prequel. While the A-side's snare-dominated breakbeats leave no doubt about the originating artist, side B delivers a more ravey, uptempo aspect with its straight beats and the extensive use of a 303. The cover artwork, an uncredited extract from Gustave Doré's "Chariot Of Fire", fits part one of the series.
All in all an excellent follow-up to the even better "First Power / Synth-It" which definitely remains the obligatory of the two EPs.

The first Revelation was a true gem, one of these unexpected marvels that leaves you breathless.
Then came this one, and, believe it or not, it is as beautiful, no downside of any kind, and, it is even more rewarding as you got 4 real different tracks instead of a set of (beautifully) different mixes of 2 tracks like on First Chapter.

When it comes to describe the music, well how could U ? This is is certainly a bit more uptempo and a bit more trancey than first chapter, but in a positive way (in a 1990 way, not the later stupid thing we usually call trance). Is this techno, or was it already electronica (I mean clever and subtle synthetic downtempo music) ? Well you could more accurately call it Techno-house : it has the groove and punch of House, its use of sample too, and the dryness and sonic precision of techno.
But one thing is clear : like First chapter it has these haunting melodies that takes you to heaven (no wonder the CD is called "Stairway To heaven"!)

And to top it all, this Belgian release has a superb sleeve. Cult Classic.