Search - Cluster :: Qua

Simple Brilliance

Vinnie C. | Columbus, OH USA | 07/02/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I came into this album after only hearing a mite bit of what Cluster had produced in the 70's. I was immediately captured by their sound, as it was seemingly the beginning of the ambient/experimental music that I have been obsessed with these days. Upon first listening to their 2009 release, I am certain that these guys are some of the most important musical minds of the last 50 years (at least for me). It amazes me that Cluster has released such a unique album after all (and I mean ALL) of the years of writing music. I always thought that after being at it for so long, a "kraut rock" group was supposed to move on to New Age music! Apparently not these guys.



At first glance, the music in Qua felt to be like a minimal "world" music, but as I listen more and more, it is indeed very other worldly. It is atmospheric, to be sure, but beyond simple background music (a term that I have never been a fan of). The subtle textures developed through an immense knowledge of analog synths combines with very restrained percussive elements, and the songs tend to pulsate, inflate, and deflate rather than move from point A to point B. There is nothing more that I can say to describe the sound, but it seems to be very true to what the duo has always done, and that is record very innovative, provocative music.



Again, having known very little about Cluster when writing this review, I can at least say that as a fan of experimental music, as well as ambient, these guys get it. They have a very adventurous approach to music, and it really works. I find that with some experimental music, the songs seem to have little to say or accomplish. Much of today's avant garde evokes little emotion in me (it sometimes bores me to tears), and I have been searching for something much more lucious and dream-like. What a welcome album this is for me. I hope others will pick it up and enjoy it. There is just nothing else quite like it."

Qua's a Treat!

A. Schlesinger | Swamps of NJ | 12/24/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have been listening to Cluster since the 70's and one cannot discount their influence on electronica music across the musical spectrum. Listen to bands like Mum. They've had a major influence on many including the inimitable Brian Eno as well. I was surprised to see a new album from these two musicians as it has been quite a long time.



If you are a fan of cluster I would say that you are NOT likely to be disappointed in this new collection of tunes. All their characteristic and unique approaches to sounds and compositional structure are there...updated with the various studio technologies now available with a computer and an iPod. Tim Story's production is spot on and he lets their creative juice flow forth.



What makes this so wonderful is Cluster still sound like Cluster and that quirky clock-not-working-quite-right approach to their music is still intact. The sounds sound fresh, unique and fun and it they create a unique sonic soup like no others. The album is a shining, intermittent LED flashlight on a rather bleak musical landscape signaling that there is still adventure and child like naivete to be had for those willing to take a listen."

Cluster Once More

Alfred H. Kahler | NOLA,USA | 09/17/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Very good effort by Moebius and Roedelius. Reminds me of the "Apropos Cluster" CD from 1990. Improvement over last couple of works. Recommended."