As noted before, other than Macula Transfer, Froese's solo albums tended to mirror what he was doing with Tangerine Dream at that time. Ages very much represents the Cyclone and Force Majeure albums, though with more of an electronic focus. The difference maker here is drummer Klaus Kruger who puts in a splendid performance.
Though, to be honest, it takes a bit to get going. Album 1 of the double set could have used quite a bit of trimming. Both 'Metropolis' and 'Tropic of Capricorn' are way too long and aren't that exhilarating to begin with. Only 'Era of the Slaves' is representative of the excellence the album affords.
For an album that has 33 minutes of just OK material, it just goes to show how strong the second half is, which is among Froese's best achievements, and that's saying something given the sheer amount of brilliance he'd composed over the years. 'Nights of Automatic Women' is the most energetic piece Froese was ever involved with. The blazing sequencers are only topped by Kruger's energetic and inventive drum kit work. 'Icarus' sounds like a leftover from the Macula Transfer album with its thick Moog sequence and heavy psychedelic guitar work. 'Children's Deeper Study' is a very unique sequencer driven piece with awesome production and a melody that sticks long after. 'Pizarro and Atahuallpa' is yet another very unique piece that features mellotron, hand percussion, and funky wah wah guitar. One of those rare songs where the mellotron carries the memorable melody line. 'Golgatha and The Circle Closes' reminds me of the mournful endings of both the Stratosfear album and the Force Majeure title track. This closes off a stunning album of electronic music.
Ownership: LP: 1978 Virgin (UK). 2xLP gatefold. Purchased this new in early 1983 while still in high school at Metamorphosis in Dallas. Obviously a very important album in my music development. There are two covers that you will find, one has blue lettering, the other green. This copy is the former.
CD: 1997 Virgin. Straight jewel case reissue. In order to fit on one disc (it's 83+ minutes long) they tragically left off 'Golgatha and The Circle Closes' rather than edit A1 or B. Though they should have just issued it as a double. To this day, this situation sadly has yet to be rectified. As was his habit, Froese did remix and re-record this album in 2005. I haven't heard this version, but Discogs rightfully considers it a different album verse a reissue. This "new" album comfortably fits on one disc.
4//83; 7/5/22 (new entry)
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