Alan Parsons has had a long and illustrious career from working with the Beatles and Pink Floyd to success with the Alan Parsons Project. I am not a big fan of the Alan Parson Project to be honest as I find much of the music washes over me despite trying my best to like the music.

However, this latest release will surprise (and possibly disappoint) long-term fans, as it sees Alan Parsons goes full-on electronica. Gone are any trappings of AOR and in its place you get an album of finely crafted tunes in the mould of Tangerine Dream meets the Orb and Ozric Tentacles. There is much to enjoy on here with plenty of lush soundscapes on display and as an added bonus Dave Gilmour lays down a trademark guitar piece as well. Various electronica artists also guest including the Crystal Method.

A brave move, that could open up a whole new audience to Alan Parsons work. It won't be enjoyed by all fans for sure but come in with open ears and mind for a first class electronica album.

The DualDisc version (2006) adds 5.1 surround sound, track commentary, video interviews with Alan Parsons, David Gilmour, Crystal Method, Nortec Collective, Uberzone and PJ Olsson and 'hidden' v ideo bonuses together with a complete Alan Parsons discography and lyrics

***

Review by Jason Ritchie