Last, but not least, dcallen. Not yer average tail end Charlie though; an artist that 'makes electronic music for people who don't like electronic music' and I'd say that was dead on. I've been a fan for years, the testament being the amount of this artists tracks I have cluttering up me various hoardy things (Ed: I think he means hard drive(s)). Long time member of Soundclick and one of its most successful exponents concerning the old bleepery (Ed: I think he means electronica. I'll get him at the next para...) dcallen was absent for a while but reappeared here in the middle of the year. If you think you know what electronica sounds like, I'm absolutely certain this artists intrepretation will change your mind as it has for some many others (including yours truly).

Ahh, but that was then and this is now.

He's always been a bit of a flash git (Ed: sigh. He means someone smarter than he is) on the musical front, and that's why he has become so well known. dcallen does like to challenge himself and - surprisingly enough - I can't remember all that many times when he didn't deliver over and above. Alongside some stunning tunes ( of which Intermezzo is one btw) Dave (for it is he) also puts ENORMOUS effort into getting everything to sound just so. For me, and a great many of his other fans, it's that attention to audio fidelity that singles this artist out.

Obviously then, The Main Intermezzo is a bit of an ear cuddler, and it's a lot more electronica than other works by this artist. It's a tough, hard edged almost electro-pop style that dcallen effortlessly pours melodies into like a man possessed. Like a great many truly original artists these days(especially on Soundclick), dcallen makes a point of saying that he is only doing this for fun, but the amount of work and effort that goes into making each track tells a different story. Love for the music will do that inspirational thing every time I say. Go on, get spoiled and wallow in a bit of what does you good.

Wide screen magic. MUST HAVE electronica.

Steve Gilmore

2007 Tracks Of The Year

dcallen - Is This A Problem?
---------------------------------------------------
Reappearing during 2007 after an absence Dave Allen (aka dcallen) immediately stamped his presence with this excellent piece of electronica. Always a feature of these year end reviews in previous years, it is a distinct pleasure to welcome this artist back as this track will amply demonstrate. dcallen has his own brand of melodic electronica that is a treat to the ears, almost every time and that statement covers a LOT of tracks. So don't stint at the one, delve deeper. Dave won't mind.

Don't know about the rest of you guys but I breathe massive sighs of relief that Soundclick veterans like dcallen are still around. For those who have never made his acqaintance dcallen is an electronic musician for people who don't like electronic music, and I bear full witness to this incredible bit of jiggery-pokery having experienced it myself countless times in the four or five years I have known him. That's the one thing about these artists, their music often has legs beyond the wildest dreams of the bulk of wannabes. I also credit dcallen with being one of the very few electronica artists to finally convince me that electronica did have life outside of 4-2-thefloor, bleeps, clicks and whirs.

Dave (for it is he) makes music that lives and breathes, for all its electronica and there are very few artists indeed who can make that happen (consistently anyway). While I haven't kept all his tracks there are certainly enough of his old ones hanging around on my various drives to fill a big sized folder. Which is where When The Sky Falls is probably going to end up very shortly, because its well up to the usual high standard of work I have come to expect from this artist. From the outset, the music stamps its mark, its confidence almost overwhelming and I was expecting it. Gawd knows what the unwary listener would make of it.

Other than a very good thing, of course.

I've always admired the way dcallen works with melodies and When The Sky Falls are some of the best I've heard; the way the track builds is pure wizardry and the sounds - as always - are original and fresh. Its the way dcallen ties it all together though where the real magic occurs. Although it borders on the odd occasion into a kinda/sorta video game soundtrack, it's still sufficiently classy enough to keep even a dyed-in-the-wool cynic like me content. I'm a sucker for sequencers and their progeny (called sequences funnily enough) and When The Sky Falls sports some lovely examples. I'd recommend listening to them if for nothing else.

Top flight electronica. MUST HAVE for fans and Highly Recommended nonetheless.

Steve Gilmore

I was obviously not the only one applauding this artists return to Soundclick activity when I reviewed Is This A Problem (June 2007) and A Walk In The Dark (August 2007), giving them a Must Have and a highly recommended respectively. That largesse may have had a lot to do with me being pleased to hear something new from one of my long term Soundclick favourites; one of a rare bredd that finally converted me to certain kinds of electronica. Or, in other words, anything other than bleeps, beats and buzzes. dcallen, as older Soundclick members know, delivers the kind of electronica you can live with and even - dare I say it - love. He's always been a handy one for the melodic line that sticks in your brain and - as his last releases have shown, the intervening time has just sharpened his edge.

I'm playing the bejeebers out of Is This A Problem and it looks set to stay there for some time but I'm still one the track of one of Dave's 'special' ones. His past is littered with such tracks, as the roster of stations playing his material will amply testify; this is an artist who delivers, consistently. The man is in ultra-chill mood on Closed For Repairs, bringing in a keyboard drenched track that - surprisingly - tons of light and space within it. That was ever Dave Alllen's (not him, the other one) particular ace in the hole and he plays it beautifully. It would be right to say that although I like this side of dcallen's work, it still isn't something that I would play that much - unless I were seriously in the mood for it. Then it would do the job so well, I'd probably be crying into me teacup...

Aaaahhh, diddums....

Closed For Repairs is, no question about it, a bang-up job. A mix you could eat your dinner off, such beautiful sounds it makes you want to weep and an otherworldliness about the whole that is pure magic. OK, yes, I am a die hard fan and - regardless of genre - I will always find a place for dcallen's music in my life, who wouldn't? Welp, I guess you wouldn't if you thought the height of sophistication was beating up drunken people, or terrorising whole populations, or just thought everything was shit and we should all die. If, however, you live, breathe and think and have the merest shred of humanity in your veins, you will find beauty, emotion and meaning in this track - even though it is instrumental. Remember, some of the best (and most long lasting) music in the world is instrumental. Go on, indulge yourself. Grab a nice whatever-it-is that gets you off, pull up the most comfortable chair you have and slip this on your sound system.........then slip away... Said it before, i'll say it again: a class act.

Highly Recommended and a MUST HAVE for fans.

Steve Gilmore

This has been a really good month for standout (way above average) tracks and I'm kinda glad that I'm ending this month on a high note - for a change. Longer term Soundclick residents will be only too familiar with Dave Allen (aka dcallen), his tracks have made a substantial contribution to most of our playlists for a good couple of years. He disappeared for a while but made a welcome return to deliver Is This A Problem (June 2007) which showed him on top form and eminently worthy of the Must Have I gave it, Mind you, this is electronica we are discussing here and that ain't up everyone's whatsname. Not that genre classification has ever held young Dave back - that's one of his finer qualities.

As you can see from the current indication of Soundclick popularity (page views/plays, stations playing etc) dcallen hasn't much to worry about - this is the sign of an artist with longevity - and a broad appeal. That comes from the music and Walk In The Dark is more the dcallen we knew from back in the day. Electronica, yeah - but is it? The more you look, the more the definition slips. T'was ever thus though, his melodic skills have been the hallmark of this artists work since the very beginning. While it doesn't storm the place down like Problem, there is a sturdy, timeless feel to the track that is pure bliss (at least to these jaded ears.

This is the track that won a Track Of The Day feature on garageband.com and I can see why it would appeal. Certainly as far as I am concerned I would have no hesitation to give this a Must Have within the genre but I wonder whether it would have wider appeal. That's always been one of electronicas main Achilles heels IMHO. Firstly this is a mostly instrumental genre, and secondly it also has a weird kind of geek factor. However, the best of the genre do expose that to be typical stereotyping. As a peice of music, A Walk in The Dark is going to be one of the better electronica track you are going to hear; this or any other year. (hint: I don't like Ambient, but I do like this....)

Highly Recommended first-rate electronica.

Steve Gilmore

It is nice to end up this month reviewing an artist I have known for many years, and its even better to note his return to Soundclick after a lengthy hiatus. For those who remember him from a couple of years ago young Dave (for it is he) made his particular mark on this community with an absolute string of wonderful (yes I did say that) electronic viginettes making it into my very first Stevies as a known Soundclick talent (this was 2003 in case ya wuz wondering) and again at the end of 2004. Since then mind, things have been very quiet and dcallen has spent a lot of time on other sites although I came across a couple of new tracks during 2005 and 2006. One such was, I hoped at the time, an indication of just how far dcallen had changed as a musician, this was a collaborative (rock) effort Bad Karma Gonna Get Ya (July 2005) that was - what do they say these days? - slammin'.

Safe.

So here the man is again again and he wants to know 'is this a problem?' I should coco. I've missed the smoothness and quality that this artist manages to bring to the feast of fools, and I for one heartily welcome his return. I've got some rope and I'm gonna tie him down so he can't be straying off to garageband.com and winning all kinds of kudos. Can't allow it doncha see? Since those heady days when the electronica field on this site was full to bursting with extraordinary talent (Bonamici, Adam Fielding, Stompp, Fahrenheit 451 et al) Dave Allen still managed to single himself out by his music and by the titles, some of which are the wittiest and best I have ever seen. Still, it was the music that kept it all afloat so does this older, wiser, dave still have the chops he had back in the day?

From small acorns, as the saying goes. Tell you what. Have a listen to the first thirty seconds of Is This a Problem and it's blindingly obvious that here is a musician who knows what he wants. His music has always been more tuneful (nay melodious) than most of the four-to-the-floor sheep, and that talent seems to have grown in leaps and bounds because what you here from this track shouts quality work in any language. The great thing about all of the artists I have mentioned in this review is that stretched the (then) electronica genre to encompass almost anything, and dcallen has always been at the leading edge of that. So what would you, who may never have heard of this artist, expect from Is This a Problem? Some of the classiest, freshest music you are ever likely to hear - in any genre, let alone electronica.

MUST HAVE.

Steve Gilmore

This synthesized instrumental has a few unusual features to it - not the least of which is the 6/4 time signature which predominates for much of the track. This gives it an interesting "floating" rhythmic quality - further enhanced by the clever balance of pad and percussive sounds used to propel the track.

The sophisticated use of minor seventh chords throughout much of the track adds a consistency and appeal which avoids the listener tiring of any of the chord progressions.

I was reminded in places of the sonority of some Level 42 compositions, and of the sound of Tony Levin playing the Chapman "stick" with Peter Gabriel.

The quality of sounds and the overall production is excellent here - I guess it's fairly safe to say that this is almost akin to a "rhythmic chill" style of Electronica - one which is instantly accessible and appealing.

The breaks in the rhythm track around 1:30 were well conceived and prevented any chance of this track getting pedestrian.

Even the cheaper harpsichord/RMI sounds and modulated chorused clavinet sounds were well employed.

Is There a Problem?

No Dave, it's a fine fine example in its genre.

Worthy of repeated playing.

Artist: dcallen
Title: Bad Karma Gonna Get You
Link: here OR Download
-----------------------------------------

Ever since I first reviewed dcallen's Ninth Sustained Attack way back in December 2003, he and his music have been a staple part of my diet. I rated him a a Rising Soundclick artist in my 2003 year end review and an honourable mention in the 2004 year end reviews. So far, 2005 has been very, very quiet for this artist. Or at least he hasn't been pestering so much, I'm not sure which. Mind you, I know he has been busy elsewhere - he is a regular panel member of POP's Friday Night Live, a live review situation that is endlessly fascinating. Oh yeah, and he's been collaborating left right and centre too, as Bad Karma aptly proves...

The bulk of his work so far has been in the electronica field and has become a leading light in that field - at least here on Soundclick. Hell of a shock to the body that then that Bad Karma has absolutey nothing electronic about it whatsover - unless you are counting the MP3 it is wrapped up in. Nope, my disbelieving friends, this track is straight out of Progressive Rock, warts, boils and all. OK, so stuff those eyeballs back into your head and let's dig deeper....

The track should rightly be attributed to Messrs Tarnecky, Wright, O'Connell, & Allen (Allen being dcallen), but who Doohicky, Jehosaphat and Wotsname are is anybody's guess. No doubt Dave will be along sometime to enlighten us, so I'll say no more on that matter. Thankfully, to my ears, Bad Karma was nothing like the contortions imposed upon you by prog rock, this felt much more like classic retro rock to me; red in tooth and claw. It's a great shame there is no information or lyrics to this really terrific rock workout because I feel like I'm only getting half the story. Mind you the half that I am getting is some jaw breaking shit right there... Imagine, our little Dave...Rock God.....

Mean, moody and magnificent and most Highly Recommended.

Steve Gilmore

Ever since I first encountered this artist through his Ninth Sustained Attack track back in December 2003, he has been providing me - and the wider Soundclick audience - with some very tasty fare. Over that time he's become a well liked and respected site 'name'. All deserved I might add because this guys mix of styles and feel is pretty extraordinary. It was chiefly on the strength of the first few tracks that I said I thought 2004 would be a real good one for him, and so it has proved to be. Mind you, he's helped that by pumping out some seriously good toons...

Take, for example, the last track I heard from him; a collaborative effort from dcallen, Opal Tonic and Marc Charlton - Mindful Of The Ambiance. A stomping track in every way and a definite kick in the pants for this jaded reviewer getting a Top Tune recommendation along the way. The one thing that can be garanteed from a dcallen track is flawless production and Brain In Techno Color is no exception. Clear, sharp instruments, a deep and varied arrangement and the rhythmic nous to know which kind of drumtrack would best fit this track.

Which believe me, given the nature of the track, is some task.

Brain In Techno Color has surprisingly little to do with Techno (surprise, surprise) and everything to do with a good night at the movies. With it's wide open spaces, lush scenery and limitless horizons this track could pass muster as a Hollywood western from back in the day when men where men and known as Marion. Now, while you are still work that one out, I'll put me hand up and say that I don't particularly like this kind of music. It's the fact that it's dcallen behind the wheel that keeps me on board. That, and the nature and style of the track. It's stereo picture is just wonderful, spreading out the space between your ears to the size of continents. The sounds are pretty much what you would expect; lush and warm mixed together with competence and not a little inspired.

A movie soundtrack worth hearing...

Artist: dcallen/Opal Tonic/Marc Charlton
Title: Mindful Of The Ambiance
Link: Website OR Download
-----------------------------------------

Now if that ain't a line for for a good Christmas present then I don't know what it is. Both dcallen and Opal Tonic get huge amounts of airplay in the Gilmore household with ol' dc having his own folder on my hard drive. Mind you, Opal Tonic doesn't have much to fear because he has graced 2004 with at least 5 great tracks by my count and was featured as a Soundclick Rising... artists in my awards for 2004. Marc Charlton, the third member of this collaboration, I knew nothing about beforehand and I know nothing still, maybe one of the others can fill us in on that. Meantime, let's listen to some mooooooosik

The sheer sound quality of this track comes rolling out of your speakers like a musical tsunami (OK! OK! a big fekkin wave then...), so I was pretty much convinced within - say - the first bar that this track was going to a bit special. The more I listened the more I realised that I had a monster track of my hands - and not just in terms of the sterling production either. I'd have given this track top marks for that feat alone but then this trio went and made it a most beautifully engrossing tune as well. Seriously, if you think electronica is all bleeps, buzzes and whirrs, you've seriously got to have some time with this little beauty.

It isn't that often that I get seriously blown away by a track, but Mindful... did it for me instantly. Now, after a few days, it's obvious that this has seriously hidden depths. To be sure, the mix is as dense as anything I've ever heard; the track as subtle and complex as anything the Pink Floyd could deliver in their acid induced heyday and - despite it being an instrumental - I found myself playing it over and over - mainly, I have to admit, to boggle at the production. See as good as this track is musically - and it is that and more besides - it's the mix and production that really scores this track highly for me. As good as it gets, this track should serve as a good masterclass for the rest of us about what our music should really sound like.

An absolute bloody milestone. Awesome in every way. Top Tune.

Steve Gilmore
It's lunchtime - I must be famous!

The one thing you mustn't do at moments of stress with me (ie almost anytime) is talk to me when I am concentrating. dcallen (the man, the leg end...) has had a few moments like that this month with me. He was futtering about worse than my wife, who can waste enormous amounts of time deciding whether to do something or not. First it was this track, then it was that track until I end up with a grand total of THREE new dcallen titles on my hard drive for this month. I don't know quite how he managed that sneaky manouvre, but I'll keep a sharper eye out in the future that's for sure.

Looked at from another angle, having three new dcallen tracks on your hd is also a bit wonderful....

Just this once mind....

Spring Fades To Winter starts like the beginning of some Clint Eastwood western then turn on a dime and sounds like something you'd hear on one of the Need For Speed Underground driving simulations. Definitely soundtrack time in the Allen household for this one then. Now that's always a pleasure for this reviewer because I much prefer this artists work in this genre. More electronic sounding than some dcallen tracks but that's no bad thing. The bass synth lines are terrific and really hold up this supremely melodic track. Excellent, more of this...

Surrounded By Them. Mmmm, I know the feeling. One of the thigs that first attracted me to this artist was his innate sense of what sound should go where, and how to best achieve it. This track exemplifies everything I first noticed about him, and goes one better - albeit in an electronic manner again. Is it just me or is this going going to start rocking out sometime or what?? Now that would be an aural surprise, I'd bet. The jury in my decision making apparatus is still out on what I really think about this track, I'll probably have to live with it a little longer to know whether I'm keeping it or not.

Tears Of Mars is the track I finally ended up with on the list, so this is probably the one he asked for. If that is the case, then all I can say is I understand his reasoning on the change for review. Tears Of Mars is much more the dcallen I personally love; intricate, challenging and infinitely entertaining. This is a track that is going to feck with your mind so be warned. Definitely be hanging onto this bad boy and I write that after only a couple of days of playing. Bloody wonderful stuff. All three tracks have enough merit to stand up for themselves but by God, Tears Of Mars has the lead by a long way.

dcallen is an artist you should meet and soon. Highly Recommended.

The man, the myth (that's m-y-t-h not m-i-s-s hee hee), the legend in his own lunchbox lurches unerringly back into view having taken a month off my review list. Eek alors, sacre blu and blimey o' Rielly, it's looks like the ol' chap has gone and got all Dungeons and Dragonish on us doesn't it? At least judging by that title. Seeing it on the review list this month sent a dreadful shudder down what passes for my spine. Not because I am afraid of his music, that's very far from the truth. Matter of fact, I think dcallen is one of the better exponents of the Reason school of musical thought in these 'ere parts and - as such - was one of my Prime Picks for 2004 when reviewing what had come out of the Soundclick woodwork during 2003.

Nope, I jest cain't stand niods, Ya know what I mean? All spotty, pens in wallets and all that old rubarb...

Truth is, musically dcallen has delivered some very high musical standards indeed over the past year or so, and the proof of that partic'lar puddin' is in the wodge of dcallen tracks that sit comfortably on my hard drive sipping Margarita's and having a high ol' time with the hired help. To think that he had been tainted with the curse of the Mage (ie ANYTHING that smacks of wizards, spells or LOTR) is a most depressing thought. Not even someone has technically mature as this guy could save his music from the powerful and malodorous spells that are weaved by this pernicious and evil smelling gunk that infests todays meeja...

Chill dude!! Take a pill Bill!!! Get a grip.

This is dcallen we are talking about, purveyor of splendidly textured and beautifully arranged electronica for the ears of the Great Unwashed (that's you and me, folks). As usual, despite the grim tones of the title, it has nothing to do with the quality and strength of the music - and let's all thank dc and God for that eh? Chief among this artists many attributes is his willingness to experiment with different instruments AND to make sure that those instruments sound authentic and that is shown here in abundance. It's highly unfair to single out any one thing on this track for special attention but I have to say the flute work on here is a) beautifully performed and b) spot on in tone. However, I have to say that this track is just that bit too much of an 'easy listening' track to really make me rush out and confuse the neighbours with screams of 'I've seen the light!!!' but no doubt, I'll be in a minority of one. There are a great many dcallen fans who will love this too bits, and so they should, because it shows that this guy definitely hasn't lost his touch in any form.

Steve Gilmore

It's an undisputed fact that Soundclick is awash with some very prodigious talents - as well as some of the most prolific. In fact, an idea that I have been toying with for a while ( a Soundclick Challenge - Open to All!) fits a lot of these artists perfectly. None more so than this next gent. Ladles and gerbils, please put your fiddly bits together and rub vigourously for Mr dcallen!! Prolific is not the word for this geezer. No, oh no. Every month, when I open up the review list shop, there he is standing in the shadows, eyeballs eerily agleam. His grubby paws deathgrip yet another sick making epic destined for the aforementioned list. Sick making, that is, insofar as these tracks are just perfect; stuff most of us only dream of making. If that doesn't make you vomit copiously, I can't think of anything that will.

So what has the scary little bast.... ol' dc got for us this time?

One of the things that most impresses me - other than his absolutely spotless track record - is dc's dedication to the finer side of music. His tracks are always, in some way, uplifting, adventurous tracks that often confound and amaze your ears in equal measure. As one of THE major SC star electronic musicians working in the field of what I will refer to as melodic electronica, dcallen has built up a big following in a short time. The only other artist working in the same field who comes close is Bonamici, although dcallen IS substantially different in approach and style. The instruments remain the same, however, and that is the telling point. All these musicians use pretty much the same set of software; usually Reason, Audigy or better soundcards and tons and tons of other VST goodies...

On Monk in DeFlat, dcallen wanders into a fairly trance-like musical scenario - certainly one of the more 'electronic' of his newer tracks. Nonetheless, it still contains all the essential elements I associate with this artist; excellent melodies,instrumentation and - of course - a faultless production. About the only complaint I have about this track is that it does exert a certain pull to the horizontal, lying somewhere blissing out is definitely the best way of truly appreciating this track. Although I'll be hanging onto this track a while longer - it is excellent electronica - I think ultimately it may not pass the 'hang on to at all costs' test. Not because there is anything wrong with it - far from it, its nauseatingly wonderful - but because it just isn't different enough.

Now what kind of pathetic excuse is that, I ask you?

Steve Gilmore

DCallen - Monk in DeFlat
Link: Click

A very popular artist on the SoundClick forums and respectfully so. Some of the music that has resulted from this guy's studio has been exceptional to say the least, hence the reason why I particularly looked forward to this offering. Listening to the intro of this track immediately gives you an idea of what's in store. Essentially downtempo Electronica, what we're given here is an atmospheric blend of pads and synths, layered on top of a very relaxing beat pattern that certainly achieves the 'toe-tapping' factor that produces great quality.

Half way through the third minute is where the track really lifts off with a nice collection of crystal like synths and compositions that serve to boost the atmosphere of the overall track. The strings give this track an extra depth, but it all retains the same theme throughout, gradually building on what was offered at the start. Hence, this is a fairly progressive piece of music that certainly proves to be worth the wait.

I really enjoyed listening to this track. It's haunting and beautifully structured and created - conjuring up all sorts of vivid images as it takes you on from one journey to another. Certainly one of the best compositions I've heard from the DCallen stables, and I would urge the rest of you to give this the listening time that it truly deserves!

9/10

Frequen-Cee

dcallen - Classical/ambient electronica fusion.

When I decided to put dcallen on my elitist review list, I really did not know what I was letting myself in for. As it goes, I'm not really a fan of symphonic electronica, and as I said in The Big Ship review, I believe that less is more. Then on top of that, dcallen clearly is one who wants his music to be heard how it should be, since all his mp3s have a bitrate of 320, thus increasing the downloading time, and then his 'Elusive' LP is stream only. So, why is it that dcallen made it onto the list?

The fact is, despite dcallen making music that I normally would avoid, I cannot deny that his perfectionist approach pays off, as on his site is some of the most thought provoking and beautiful music around. I first came across dcallen when I was very new to Soundclick and I did not really understand the way the site worked, namely, the Critics Corner. And-Y had reviewed one of my tracks, and when I thanked him, he told me to do the same for someone else, and so I looked at a review thread, and noticed that dcallen had asked for a review of 'Ninth Sustained Attack', and so I wrote a pretty rushed review of that, but the music itself amazed me. It's thousands of simple patterns layered on top of each other to create such a rich texture was unlike anything I had heard.

Unlike many of the dabblers in musical electronics, dcallen isn't so much a commercial electronica artist as much as he is a composer, who merely uses electronics as a medium. His music would sound good no matter what instruments it was played on.

Okay, so onto the actual tracks... the music is generally quite ambient, and as I said before, has a great classical feel to them. A fine example of this is beautiful and personal 'For My Angel'. Which slowly builds, starting from a soft electric piano, and slowly rising with strings and choirs. The track is 3:55, but it could go on forever, and I wouldn't get bored, as it's merely a reminder of how great things can be. Those who still aren't convinced should be reassured, however, that much of his music still holds a brilliant groove, such as 'One Way Ticket to Mars' and 'Monk in DeFlat'. It shows that dcallen isn't just someone who listens to way too much classical music, and actually knows how to combine modern music with old music, to create something completely refreshing.

In conclusion, a fusion of classical and electronica, glossed over with brilliantly programmed beats and effects make dcallen a musical force to be reckoned with. If there is any justice in this world, he will go on to do big things.

Here's the Aural Illusionist more like.

For those who know him and his own pert-ikular musical style you will know and cherish him as one of Soundclick's finest. A musican whose works are sharp, witty and extravagant with great melodies and monstrous hooks. All in, dcallen has yet to put a foot wrong with this reviewer - and I gather this is the case with other reviewer too. Just goes to show that real talent will get noticed and this artist does have that raw commodity in prodigious amounts.

Optical Illusionist is well up to the usual standard of production and is even in some places a tad funky. To be sure there's all of the usual cast of dcallen characters; excellent melodic structure and tenseness; impeccable taste in instruments and a keen ear for the finer details. I should make particular note of the drum work on this track which is precise, propulsive to a fault and absolutely, gorgeously stereo it fair takes me breath away.

On the other hand, I think I didn't sense some of the sense of excitement on previous tracks, and in a way it suggests that - over time - this may wear a little thin. Only, let it be said on Dc's behalf, that judgement has nothing whatsover to do with the quality and texture of this track, more to do with me being a right picky bar steward when it comes to matters of the earholes. It still stands as a fair addition to the extremely overwhelming collection of tracks from this artist, but not - I fear - one of the all time best. However, most people will ove this instantly and who could blame them, what I am talking about is purely a matter of personal taste.

There, does that count as a miss or a near miss???

Dave has become one of my hidden favorites in the art of producing music within REASON. He’s so versatile and knowledgeable in music in general, which allows him to just simply take on a challenge and master it to perfection. The challenge was Reason, which he acquired not really that long ago. Some of his pieces really intrigued me, being a “composer” myself and I am simply amazed what this guy can do within the amount of time he discovered this product for digital recording.

This tune is 5:07 minutes long and since I already listened to it several times, I can tell you that you will be listening to this tune for times to come, if you’re into ambient music. There is not really a need for a detailed review at all as far as this tune is concerned. You would agree with me 100%, once you have listened to it.

This recording/composition is simply brilliant and really is a shining example, of what ambient music should be. This is actually a tune that the radio stations would play on a “Smooth Jazz” radio station. I’ve heard similar work being played on such stations here in Atlanta. Dave, you should consider, sending this one on to the station that play smooth jazz, or otherwise relaxing music.

Wonderful piece and a keeper for me, personally!!!

Mike

I have this vision. Every month dcallen puts in a track and I think he's trying to catch me out. After all, this is one of the ONLY SC artists whose entire collection of tracks reside on my hard drive. I think he's now bound and determined to make a track that I will HATE... As if...

The fact is, dcallen is a very, very rare artist and everything he does displays this to perfection. Yeah, yeah wot a load of bollocks you talk Gilmore, I hear some of you thinking.. Tell you what then, take a listen to a dcallen track - any track - and you may get what I am saying. Especially if you like exquisitely detailed and subtle instrumentals with a moodiness that can't be bought. Suspence for Sixpence is pure, quintessential dcallen in all respects; production, performance and feel are absolutely spot on the money.

For this reviewer, as a long term afficiando, I'd have to say that this track really does it for me. It's beautifully orchestrated with one of the best fx placings I've heard in a track for a long time. btw, I'm talking about the water drip here which - along with the obligatory kitchen sink of sounds - seems to be dcallen staples. What really cuts this out from the bulk of his tracks though is the instrumentation and the sheer, delightful feel of it. Five minutes of pure aural heaven and one I am most definitely hanging onto as if it were sixpence. Hey, they don't call me cheap for nothing, ya know.

Excellent stuff, superlative chill-out by anybody's standards.

Steve Gilmore

Opening with a mysterious yet inviting synthline "Brain in Techno Colour" creates a surreal yet undeniably majestic timbre. The chord progressions are so unexpected, yet work together in such a sublime fashion that the composition behind the track feels truly timeless. The synths do feel a little centre focused in the mix, and a little gentle panning here and there could no doubt make a huge difference, but what's there now is what matters: and that is both style and substance in equal measures. The truly epic nature of the productions gives the track a filmscore feel: indeed the depth in the synth lines and the vast quality of the pads make me think of sprawling vistas. A track to accompany any film in search of surreal soundscapes that echo futuristic landscapes. A triumph both in composition and in sound design. Superb.

I gave your track a listen, here's what I made of it...

I love the ambience that opens the track: I'd love a more gradual fade in though (perhaps just automating the attack to be longer for that opening chord?). The use of reverb here is very sublte, but works a charm to create a really spaced out atmosphere, and the mellow drums provide a rhythmical structure that boosts the track's atmospherics while not overpowering them. A sensitive approach to the mix has allowed for clarity and production values that reflect the strong compositional ideas: everything is wonderfully crisp. At times I feel is some use of delay could add some depth to the rhythms in the synths, but that's not to say there's anything wrong with them as they stand. The bold and vibrant synth work is complemented by some great development in the drum rhythm. By 3:00 the track has really come into flower - everything is fresh and the ambience is wonderful. Mesmerising pads flow along side rich bass lines and the polyphonic texture gradually becomes more and more complex (with perfect layering I must add). A strong track produced to a very high standard: thoroughly enjoyed it!

This is a relatively short tune for this genre … barely 5 minutes. It’s within the electronica genre, but this tune has some other flavors in it as well.

Dave is progressing in the art of using Reason faster than I can keep up with. I’ve heard some really great productions from this artist before and this one is probably one of my favorites… as I said one of my favorites.

This composition includes elements of Jazz, Pop, Film Music and Classical music. It’s a never ending build-up to something great. I was waiting for the big awe!!!, but, Dave decided to keep us in suspense.

But that’s quite alright as this tune is brilliantly conceived. Love the drums, bass, pads, strings and some of the more special effects, which signify this tune to be Electronica. Without these effects, it would not have done so.

I just can’t believe that this artist did not develop this one with a memorable ending. The whole piece is written so well, it was just begging for a Grand Finale. Oh well, we have to take it as it is and I think this is a very good one to listen too if you like any of the aforementioned genres.

Nice piece, Dave!

Mike

Fast cutting himself a good wodge of listeners through Soundclick, dcallen's been going from strength to strength - especially with this reviewer. In my way of thinking dc is one of those artists that can always be relied on to be doing things in a different way. Even though the tools he uses (see that title, hint! c-l-u-e!!!) are pretty much standard when its gone through the dcallen mode, it doesn't sound like anyone else.

This should become obvious within the first few bars of That's Reason enough; the coolness, the flawless production all signal a musician who takes a great deal of care and attention with each track. It treads a very, very fine line between being just right and 'oh a little too much' as if it were born to the tightrope and - strangely enough - it works a charm. Musically, it's a down tempo slice of electronica whose highs are dominated by what I can only think of as 'skirling synths' - and odd effect right enough but by God it makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end.

Don't be misled here. That's Reason Enough is definitely nothing like yer standard yadda-yadda electronica; this is a graceful, soaring work of art that is uplifting as well as relaxing. Again I point this out, dc is one of the very, very few artists at Soundclick who have yet to deliver a not-so-hot track for me to maul. Believe me, there aren't many that get away with that. Sure I may like an one or two tracks by an artist but but a bit cooler on the rest of their material, not so with dcallen. Right now I have every track of his on my HD and this one is a certainty to join them. Top class music.

An artist that has given a fair bit of listening pleasure of late with some of his earlier compostions so I was looking forward to giving this a once over, and indeed from the offset this appears as something that sounds very impressive.

The beats are very breaky, but are fairly laid back and are layered on top of several synth and crystal-like effects. 'Serenity' indeed sounds like quite an apt description for this piece of music although from the first listen it doesn't really sound like it changes much. However, some tracks have a good enough set of instruments and sounds to make those changes not really as necessary as some other tracks may need. Despite the track being slightly under the six minute mark, I'll admit that I am struggling a little bit to think of what actually to write about it; it sounds great, the production value is, as always, great. The beats are nice and the genre mood of the track is that of a down-tempo breaks tune.

Fans of DCallen will appreciate this effort since it is a definite toe-tapper (for which mine is doing exactly that as I type). For me, this remains a no-nonsense piece of 'dance' music that contains plenty of quality ingredients, although for some it may become a little repetitive and need some else a little more. Negatives-wise I would say that it could easily end about the 04:50 mark - shaved by a about a minute - without really loosing any of it's spark.

Beats: 7.5/10
Sustaining Interest: 7/10
Groove: 8/10

Overall: 7.5/10
A plausable effort from DCallen and a track that I enjoyed listening to - aleit if it was slightly long. A definite recommend!

Frequen-Cee

Now this is a nice surprise for a first review. Sure, there are the artist's trademarks, but the arpeggiating synths, 80's style pads, and laid back breaks provide for a good mix of listening material. This is an artist who I have listened to before, and I have to say this is some of his best work. The synth's and flute's "talking" parts add an outlandish flavor to this ambient work. There is a degree of repetition here, but it is one you are not likely to notice, even if you add my degree of scrutiny. Why? Because, it's just soooo chilled out.

I think that one point for improvement here is the breakbeat. There needs to be more variation, maybe a frantic or just faster fill here and there...other than that, there really isn't much I can fault here. Mixing is the other point. Though everything sounds clean, I believe that the arp. pad is a little too forward in the mix. Turning that down may help balance things out a little. Also, the beats should be a little louder. Maybe starting out quieter and filtering/fading in at the the same time in transition points of the track.

Overall, I think this track is well produced, and deserves a listen. Even from non EM fans.

9/10.

Nice.One d!

Sincerely.

fpoole

Hey, Dave!!! What the heck is this one about??? Are you trying to dazzle us??? And I mean that in a good way! The opening is just stunning in all aspects of Electronica music. You name it: drums, bass, synths.. everything just fits nicely and most of all, everything is mixed very, very nicely!!!

This 4:55 minute tune gets a good rating from me, just based on production and mastering!

What’s not so good: not too much variation. And I encounter that with a lot of Electronica artists, including myself (but, I am switching/doing a mix thereof, hence, it should be more interesting )

I love the sounds you produced and the way you mixed them. The composition is great! What makes up for the lack of variation in melody is the use of the instruments and the way you implemented them. A Reason user’s dream come true, as far as I am concerned!

You get an A+ from me for this one, Dave. All in all, this is a wonderful piece of Electronica music!

Mike

Dave surprises me with a little Techno tune that starts out more like a tribal oriented tune. Even when the initial bass and drums set in. It sounds like I am in for an Electronica delight that will last about 5:12 minutes.

Everything sounds pretty calm and relaxing so far. The high note synths are a bit hot in the mix. What I love most so far are the bass and the percussion. They are outstanding for this genre!!! And I mean: outstanding!!! love the strings throughout – very nice harmonies and a very nice soft mix on those strings, Dave!!!! Excellent work.

3:02 – it seems that the bass is picking up a bit. The main theme remains pretty much the same. This reminds me one of those floating away, drift away and let your mind go kind of tunes.

The production is excellent… the little thunder in the last minute is great! Nice transposition to another key range.

Sum it up for Dave, Mike: well – great techniques in mixing, some nice samples used in this one and most of all, it’s relaxing and is definitely not rightly classified in the Techno genre. This is more ambient than anything else. But, that does not mean that I do not like it. The fact is, I like it a lot.

This would be a great ambient piece, if Dave would turn down the volume on those high pitch synths just a bit. That would give the whole tune a more ambient and relaxing feel to it.

All in all: nice work, my friend!!!!

Mike

Bigtime flavour of the month in my household this guy. Doesn't seem but two minutes since I first met the bloke but already my hard drive has managed to gather every single track I've reviewed. Again and again this particular artist has delivered some blindingingly good tracks; Semitones, Ninth Sustained Attack and the gorgeous Elusive.

Over Saturn is musically a lot quieter and more restrained than previous tracks but is still murderously efficient at getting it said and done. At times the sounds and tenor of the piece definitely border on the classical area - especially in the choice of instrumentation - and that's never a bad thing. What I most like about this guys work is his production and arrangement styles both of which are tasteful and usually germane to the track at hand. He varies both techniques from track to track which gives him an identifiable sound as well as a freshness to each track that most artists find hard to capture.

Saying that Over Saturn is a lazy sod of a track is almost correct. The track floats in and out of your ears like a summers breeze through lace curtains, its little gusts and eddies giving the track a flow that works surprisingly well. So it goes without saying that to really enjoy this track you would do well to be r-e-l-a-x-e-d, and in a calm mindset; then its like a good dose of 'eau de summers day' that'll plaster a great big fat grin all over your face. Ultimately though, because of the genre, this will not be to everyones taste - even I'm a little wary of its soporific power but I will be keeping it around for those times when everyone is tucked up in bed and only the Nite Owl is about.

Then I'll sit down, put me feet up, stereo on and drift away...

Supposedly an oldie, dcallen (aka Dave), surprises me with a genuine electronica composition that’s both ambient and rhythmic! This tune is a mere 5:48 minutes long and it promises not to be a boring one. Very nice synths are being used here along with a very phat beat that kicks butt… well, maybe it’s the bass drum that really impresses me most – it’s mixed well to have some bass in it.

More than half way through the tune, there are some fem AH’s to be heard, but, musically, there is not much change. But, for this mellow genre, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s the consistent and relaxing sounds that ease the tension. Some of my music is the same way. Why else would people by those Nature CD’s with the wind going, or the seashore sounds, or the rain and wind, etc …

So, if Dave wanted to create a “SoundScape”, he achieved his goal with a nicely produced piece of electronica music. It’s quite relaxing and I will be listening to it after a stressful day, laying back with a glass of wine, or a beer, or a whiskey, or a whiskey and a beer (but no wine) and I will be chilling to this little tune, which I think is a very good one!!!!

Excellent work, Dave!!! That’s what I call mellow!!!!

Mike

This time out our ol' fren' dcallen has decided to abandon the time honoured (at least to him) of naming tracks after musical jargon. Looked at on the bright side both of the earlier tracks I have heard from him - Semitones and Ninth Sustained Attack - were aboslute blinders in every respect; professional sound, delivery and performance. Quickly establishing himself as another SC fave, dc then goes and changes title tack and we get Elusive...

All of which proves that I am floundering around for a beginning here...

As an artist myself I have often been accused of going overboard with effects (echo, reverb,delay et al) and that would mostly be true. If you got them, might as well use them I say. I am a particular sucker for innovative ways of using delay and reverb in novel ways, and dcallen obviously seems to be a soul brother because Elusive is overflowing with such aural goodies. Easily the best production so far from this singularly talented guy, and - I believe - one that is probably going to be more popular than either of the two tracks mentioned previously.

Elusive is almost four minutes of some of the best electronica you are going to hear this side of Heaven, aided and abbetted by a production so sharp you could cut yourself on it. Again I admit I am at a loss to either describe or categorise this track. Oh sure it is technically electronica because most of the instruments used are of that nature. The tracks arrangement though slides easily between chilled, extremely funky and new age and therein lies its real staying power. It may be short but it is extraordinarily pretty, with a beat made of gold. If you haven't heard this artist before I most strongly advise you to put this right. A very talented musician with a knack for hitting all the right buttons all the time. A not inconsiderable feat and one that this artist seems to pull off with consummate ease.

A good clean sound from the start, top production from what is to me one of soundclicks top artists, I love and keyboards in this track all the little sounds that bounce about in my speakers with a nice beat to see the track home, the drums are not over doing it, they just keep all the panning and synthesizer work in order, the more I listen the more I liked it, not saying I ever did not.. not like it, just when you play it for a week over and over I never got sick of it, it’s summer down this end of the world and I had this track up very loud when I was out in the garden roasting me cream crackers off, so most of the neighborhood got to hear this track as well and I’m sure they loved it as much as I do.
this is another artist that all good music lovers should get there ears into and play so as the folks next door can hear, I’ll be back to Dcallen page to grab some more of his stuff and I advise all to do the same, Link at the top of this page.

For the sound of the track at the beginning, the title is extremely apt for the setting; a kind of eerie string synth that sustains throughout several notes, with a gentle piano line amongst various other effects layered underneath. Towards the minute mark there’s introduced a very cool sounding series of bass notes that fill the listener with intrigue as to what is coming next.

Indeed, it’s almost until the two minute mark when we’re finally given a beat. But it’s a build that is well worth waiting for as the beats gradually build nice and subtly. Luckily, DCallen doesn’t mess around with the overall feel of the track too much as to end up spoiling the setting, resulting in a very delicate sounding song that just gently flows along without any major surprises.

Perhaps the strangest sound in this is the odd kettle-like whistle that appears in frequent sections throughout the track - but it all adds to the eeriness of the track. As mentioned previously, there aren’t any big changes, although at times the track does threaten to introduce them. However, I think their omission is probably the best thing for the track and it flows on very nicely till the end.

Beat: 7.5/10
Sustaining Listener's Interest: 8/10
Groove: 8/10

Overall: 8/10
A pleasant enough track that flows along without any major complaints. For some the slight lack of variation may be slightly off-putting and may make some people feel it to be a bit repetitive. But those into chill-out and down-tempo will certainly enjoy listening to this.

Yeah, yeah but is it semitones or semitones (ie sounds like semetones). Mmmmm

However dcallen works, there's one thing that's obvious, he has a very good grasp of da lingo. Seems like every one of his musical children are named after some part of musical jargon. Last month, for example, I was introduced to this artist by way of his Ninth Sustained Attack and this month we have Semitones. Semitones, for those without a musical compass are minor notes, the so called 'blue' notes that give most western music its emotional range. Soooo, lessee whether dcallen can enlighten us any further...

Ninth Sustained Attack kept my interest - even though it strayed into the ambient field - because of the sheer musicality of the peice; a track that pushed borders, albeit rather lazily. Hand on heart, I'd have to say I prefer Semitones anyday and Ninth etc was a keeper for me. I put a lot of that appeal down to this tracks more robust approach, its effortless performance and an arrangement that is a thing a great beauty. On top of all that, the icing on this particular confectionary, is a synth sequence that initially seems out of place but with repeated plays it soon establishes its authority over the tune.

Genre-wise I'm pressed to know where exactly to put this, other than the 'gee whizz' category. I have to admit to being very, very impressed with the nature and competence, especially in the more jazzily inventive runs of the piano. There's dabs of electronica courtesy of the the synths, there's jazz overtones from the piano, lush string pads as fat as a feather bed and then there's just the plain musical oddities such as the synth sequence I mentioned earlier on. Whichever way you dice it and slice it, Semitones is a major slice or sheer musical talent and ability and its definitely elevated dcallen into my small list of 'oh my God' artists.

All meat, a real treat. Whatever that means

I'll start off by saying I love this inspite of the reptition. Really cool bass line that works perfectly with the song. The background spacey sounds really contribute toward the mood of the piece and the melody while simple is haunting and really hit's the spot! I love the change up at the 1:40 mark and then back to the original key.

Now for the rythm track (you knew this was coming right ). Man there is so much potential here for a great rythm section you got to do it! To finish this piece off make that "drummer" sweat his a** off using the entire kit in a latin style percussion thing, not in rock a solo type of way but bring those tom's, and ride cymbal cup into play, I'd say as the finale during the last segment.

Overall this is a great track, well produced, and arranged that, I think eveyrone should give a listen too, really an enjoyable listen.   

Artist: dcallen
Title: Ninth Sustained Attack
Link: here
-----------------------------------------

Another new name to me courtesy of Soundclick, at least musically. I have noticed his willingness to participate in forum life and that's always a good mark in my books. Whenever I know I'm going to review a track, I try not to read anyone else comments about it - in case it somehow sways my judgement. However, in the hurly burly of life you can't help getting little snatches of things (what inspires the artist, what they like musically and so on) but the audio reality and the forum kind could not have prepared me well enough no matter what.

Again, here is another artist whose approach to music and musicmaking seems to be from the classical end of the music pool, and welcome it is too. Like a great many of us, I do get tired of the endless clones that daily assualt our ears so it is nice to get an aural change of atmosphere and Ninth Sustained Attack does that in spades. A track to laze an afternoon away to, sun streaming in the windows creating solid bars of light....your eyes are sooooooo heavy, you feel yourself slipping away....

Yaaa-haaah me beauties wake the feck up!! Damn layabouts!!

A seriously good piece of music that shows intelligence, style and a great deal of experience. While being pleasant enough to listen to as background music, this track really shines on headphones when it's real texture and feel can be savoured. Not going to be a track much treasured by the general mob, but I'm gonna put my name and address on its backside so it knows where its staying. Excellent and well worthy of many, many blissful hours spent contemplating whatever passes for your navel.

Steve Gilmore