Microworld (2) ‎– Signals / Smile

"Signals" is very gradually building track with many layers of hypnotic percussion and somewhat Tangerine Dream-like looping synth sequences. It would fit right in with early (1991-1993) trance music, but is very much techno at the same time. It's very similar to the mid-2000s "neo-trance" music of Kaito. "Smile" is much different. An homage to Larry Heard's brand of dreamy house music, it has a slower and much warmer feel, with chimey keyboards, gently programmed TR-909 percussion, and a prominent, housey bassline. Again, it's still part-techno, despite the deep housey vibe.

Both tracks are well worth the price, but the vinyl on my copy, purchased new, is less than ideal: uncleanable pops in some places, and warpage & center-hole placement result in the stylus making a slight figure-eight as it plays. The physical defects don't ruin the experience, but I hope these tracks are re-released on better media someday.

This release nestles perfectly within the Transmat family yet the profile of the artist says he resides in Australia, it's good to see the the inspiration of Detroit permeates alot further than it's city limits, a testament to it's influence.

'Smile' is awash with an amazingly emotional synth line, new sounds come in towards the end that suggest this track could go alot further; as is common with superlative records such as this, you just don't want it to end. If you have any other mixes Mr.Microworld please let's hear 'em!

'Signals' is the better known track, hypnotic and entrancing it draws you in to a subtle and gentle crescendo of simple and sparse yet perfectly balanced sound.