After the Heat
This 1978 collaboration between Brian Eno andClustermembers Dieter Moebius and Hans-Joachim Roedelius may sound dated in this era of digital recordings, but the music still possesses a special appeal. This experimental trio concocted 10 electronic-based compositions that focus and embellish upon repeated patterns within their layered tracks of keyboards, piano, and occasional bass and guitar. The results range from the ethereal haze of "Old Land" and the psychedelic throb of "Broken Head" to the serene keyboard musings of "Luftschloss." Eno contributes vocals or spoken word to three tracks, including the backward singing on "Tzima N'arki," a quirky slice of avant-pop that includes bass work fromCan's Holger Czukay. Despite their minimalist approach to structure, Eno, Moebius, and Roedelius generate striking sounds and sonic contrasts throughoutAfter the Heat, and one can certainly hear precursors to modern ambient, techno, and contemporary instrumentals on this diverse album.--Bryan Reesman