Gert Emmens - The Last Alien (2016)

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Gert Emmens - The Last Alien (2016)

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The latest Gert Emmens release, "The Last Alien", contains 5 eponymously titled tracks recorded using analog equipment and live drums. The first part opens with an atmospheric section filled with all kinds of effects and bass drones. After a couple of minutes, a fat bass Moog sequence starts, as well as mellotron sounds (including flutes). This is classic Berlin School sound, as we all know and love. After 5 minutes, drums come in, as the tension bui lds. Nice organ pads give a vintage feel to the proceedings. Typical reftective melodies in Gert Emmens style appear for a more pastoral atmosphere. As a point of reference, the track has something of an "Ages" (Froese) feel to it. Before we notice, it's over and back to the atmospheric soup. 12 minutes passing like a few seconds is a good sign for sure.
Organ chords welcome "Part 2", soon joined by a subtle bass sequence. The chords disappear as we are left with the sequence and effects. The chords return only a couple of seconds later, together with a very nice reflective and "romantic" solo. This is extremely warm and enjoyable. Then there's a nice deep synth sound similar to a tolling bell. Another symphonic lead sound somehow reminded me on Vangelis' "Blade Runner" score, especially "Blade Runner Blues". We can definitely hear that Gert's decision to move to a strictly analog setup worked big time on this album. The sound is sparse, minimal and quite moody, leaving only essential components and pure emotion in.
Another dark soundscape heralds the coming of "Part 3". We can hear an electronic pulse and reflective e-guitar chords, giving a vaguely space rock feel, a bit Floydian even. A rapid bass sequence forms underneath, threatening to burst through. Drums join the ride, as the Moog sequence keeps mutating. Chords and solos quickly join in, taking things to stratosphere. String stabs remind on Tangerine Dream circa "Pergamon". The sequence then subsides for a moment, as the solo shines in all its glory. More melodies appear for a rich, symphonic pastiche.
Heavier and more aggressive effects at the beginning of "Part 4" is something new for Gert but it does work very well. A jolly sequence quickly joins in, as well as great, great melodic chords - fantastic Berlin School music! Everything is perfect about this track - the fat sequence from real modular Moog, the chords, the effects… It's quite a trip.
The closing part opens with deep, cavernous drones and an echoing sequence entering the scene almost immediately. This is another track with drums and it's got an absurd amount of tasty synth sounds. The music flows freely on top of a repeating arpeggio - serene, beautiful, but poignant. This is stuff to let your mind fly to the farthest reaches of space where the only limit is your imagination.