by Jim Brenholts
Hans-Joachim Roedelius originally released Romance in the Wilderness as Fruhling. It is another in a long line of completely original works by this e-music pioneer. While the beauty of this music and its natural harmonies will appeal to holistic new age devotees, this is not its intent. This is merely a reflection of Roedelius having achieved serenity and relaxation. The harmonies are, for lack of a better term, intense. The atmospheres have harmonic overtone qualities that raise the consciousness of the listener and of the music. The music is smooth and does have new age appeal and much more. Roedelius' sound design incorporates psychoactive timbres and organic textures. It is still so much more than mere minimalism or ambience. This is avant-garde music with mass appeal. This landmark CD will appeal to fans of Steve Roach, Robert Rich, Brian Eno, Klaus Wiese, and Mathias Grassow.