Lights out on the playground kids, the dawn of a new reality is upon us… so follows an underlying focus on "Phoenix," the latest creation from outer-worlders, Ravenous.

The messages run deep in and around the low key and deftly crafted techno-electric arrangements and symphonic beats, emulating a darkest before dawn sublimation before the slightest glimmer of hope rears itself. But what's going on here?

Something so serious surely wasn't meant to house itself in music so illustrious…

"Religion" as the opening message presents a strong case for self-evaluation and beckons the question can we trust the basic paths of history?

There's no shortage of real life issues to ponder as the sensual and shooting beats playfully rush your better judgment but again there's the subliminal aspect involved here that opens the mind's eye to a bigger picture.

"Between Two Worlds" is illusory in its presence and it's here where I really begin to take notice of the chorus in each successive song as set apart from the rest of the lyrical structure… a nicely drawn intuitive touch.

By "Shooting Star" I'm convinced the spirit of Depeche Mode invaded them in their sleep and holds an astute significance in the final tale of the tape.

The still settling German "techies" explore any and all aspects of programmable production, which at times ranges as far North as something like NIN aiming high in their sights, the "Phoenix" rising, unleashing the power of contemplative flight all the while remaining necessarily grounded to maintain their closeness with the human condition.

Released by Metropolis Records

Review by Vinnie Apicella [va85@columbia.edu]