|
Transponder continues to imagine new fields of possibility. Working together synth saints Don C Tyler and Steve Pierce craft poetic associations in sound. Intending to invoke the creative potential of the human imagination, once cast into reality their emanations and variations reach into cosmic proportions. In this duo's collaborative zone talents combine in surprising ways to realize new music and meaning. The Darkstar Ascendant Trilogy counts the volumes Empyrean Sun (49:19), Umbral Dawn (57:47) and Empire of the Eclipse (53:20) as distinct constituents of its set. By connecting everything to the listener through sound Tyler & Pierce invite reflection on the enduring value of their sci-fi visions and fantastical dreams. Inducing us to navigate an open-ended realm of timbre and tone the strategic deployment of echoing sequencer notes dance up, down and around the octave - amidst sustaining synthesizer shades ethereal and golden. When the atmosphere shifts upon a growing gloom, expressive refrains settle into bewitching themes. Unfurling along its ribbon of melody the narrative rides atop broken chords of commanding rhythm and pulse. Patterned over both time and space these three albums wind out in a beautiful, bright logic. Yet, further in the synthetic stories devour dark static durations - and take license from the wilderness and wildness of the two electronic imaginations at work throughout. When an adventure of this sweep beckons, we must embrace the call.
- Chuck van Zyl/STAR'S END 5 February 2026 |
