3.5

Release data:

Frank Van Bogaert – Colours
CD/DIGITAL DOWNLOAD, Ace Studio Editions/Groove Unlimited, 1998/2004

“Colours” is the remarkable debut album by Belgium composer/synthesist Frank Van Bogaert, also owner of the notable Ace-studio in Artselaar.

From the liner notes we learn each of the twelve musical paintings has a distinct atmosphere, primary to the melodies and rhythms. Not only does Frank use a large array of synthesizers and other professional gear, he also knows his way around getting the best out of all of them.

The 56-minutes of music are a catchy blend of complex poly-rhythms and many elements of world music along quite some voice sampling. Its symphonic/classical approach and beautiful string pads remind of Vangelis, but when it comes to the treatise of sounds also the output of Candice Pacheco, Enigma, Era, Deep Forest and Paul Haslinger in that period comes to mind.

The versatile music featured here is pure emotion and feels like a warm caress with occasional melancholic undercurrents.
Both the production and mastering of the album, which was re-released by Groove Unlimited in 2004, are excellent.

Website: www.frankvanbogaert.com

You can see what reviews I have done of this artist on the Frank Van Bogaert artist page