Spacefolds 9

The sixth installment in Quarkspace's ongoing series of space rock improvs, Spacefolds 6 showcases the best "on the spot" material the band has released yet. The Spacefolds concept consists of capturing the band improvising, keeping the best bits, and releasing them. These CDs (cassettes in the case of the first three) were never treated like full-fledged albums (including very basic packaging) and it was true — prior to number 6, Spacefolds served as a laboratory for the band and the series couldn't be considered on the same level as Quarkspace or The Hidden Moon. However, the trend ends here, with Spacefolds 6. Still totally improvised, this material is very mature and stands on its own. The almost techno feel found on Spacefolds 5 is better integrated and sounds less alienating. Bass and drums are more prominent, giving the band's sound a drive close to Ozric Tentacles at times. Even the disco flooring on "Funkpalast at Brian's Wormhole" works nicely with all the swirling synthesizers and the Moog solo. The sound quality is excellent and the whole album is a lot less ethereal than The Hidden Moon, making it more danceable. "The Strangest String" is one of the band's strongest pieces ever, written or improvised. Strongly recommended. ~ François Couture, Rovi