STENDECK SONNAMBULA ALBUM TYMPANIK AUDIO RELEASE: FEBRUARY, 2009 REVIEW: MAY 6, 2009

It's off with the conventions and full on into the esoteric with the fourth album from Stendeck: "Sonnambula". If you are familiar with what this madly talented man has done in the past, you already own this thing and if not allow me to persuade you.

From the deepest darkest well of the subconscious is where Stendeck operate from. Beautifully rendered soundscapes wreak havoc against urban beats, slick effects and sorry for you lot who love them: no vocals. Stendeck are about setting a mood, actually it's more to do with tone than anything else. Such tones. There are ambient moments on "Sonnambula" yes but they're hardly boring. Close your eyes... you'll be right there.

Over the course of this incredible record, sheer escapist incantations are unleashed. Cold washes of synthesis, achingly deserted streets alive with memories of mechanized footprints and above all of this, you soar into the vivaciously vivid blue skies of a brilliant night-time.

PETER MARKS