Immersion's new album of seductive instrumentals takes in a range of moods and energies. The duo of Malka Spigel of Minimal Compact and Colin Newman of Wire, Immersion is a true collaboration, with no delineation between who plays what. Through the nineties Immersion released three acclaimed albums of expansive instrumental electronica. Now 17 years later they are back. Though their sound is unmistakable, clearly the duo have evolved. The pulsing and sliding analogue synths are still present but the most noticeable differences are the introduction of guitars into the mix and an increased sense of urgency to the compositions. This means it cannot be classified as ambient music. Although it does have its contemplative moments - such as the gently unfolding Slow Light - the majority of the album is powered by a strong sense of motion. Nanocluster is a tense, insistent composition. Like the score to some futuristic spy film, it demonstrates their skill at creating sound worlds alive with detail. The urgent forward propulsion of Organic Cities weaves in shades of prime era Tangerine Dream. The fact the album has been largely constructed using analogue instrumentation rather than digital definitely gives it a warmth and depth which sets it apart. Available on CD or spread across two 10" singles.
