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Compact Disc (CD) + Digital Album
Packaged in a four panel digipak showing photo details of the planet Jupiter. Remaining CDs (stock number I8-09B) are numbered of an initial run of 100, and not signed by the artist
Includes unlimited streaming of Celestial Mechanics
via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
Inspired by space, the physical universe, and all of its intricacies, as well as by classic Kosmische Musik works from out of the 1970s Berlin-School, Chuck van Zyl realized the four pieces found on Celestial Mechanics as personal electronic odes - to the four Galilean moons of Jupiter, and the astral motions of the solar system.
Clearly influenced by "Crystal Lake" and "Rubycon", as well as by the direct mentoring of The Nightcrawlers (the NJ Space trio with which he was so closely associated), Chuck van Zyl found himself finally making music that, not only properly portrayed his cosmic yearning, but was representative of the restless, creative spirit which had inhabited him for so long.
As we listen to "Celestial Mechanics", we can feel this world of discovery still living on. The repeating music box sequencer intro of the title track immediately turns our thoughts to the virtues of The Universe as a place of possibility and wonder. Sounds build out, and additional lines of rhythm are introduced. A magic machine pulse provides a distinctive energy, one more of the mind than of the air. Confirming synth lines surface - reassuring the lost, and arousing the adventurous - and dramatic chord changes help us ascend further still. As we pass through eerie amorphous interludes of drones, metallic tones, and wondrously modulated aural accents, the mounting tension resolves.
The emergence of an ever repeating pattern of echoing bass notes supports the lilting melody of a soft synthesizer lead. Minimalist sequencer runs motor on, then gradually brighten. Individual notes are transposed and repeated, minutely altering the pattern and quickening the music's pulse. After a few variations in momentum, the music slows, and expends its previously built mass in thoughtful repose. Transitioning out of this energetic phase the magical beauty of its closing section solemnly brings "Celestial Mechanics" to its conclusion.
While "Celestial Mechanics" includes all of the texture and atmosphere the Spacemusic genre is known for, its biggest success is in its entertainment of a most unusual idea - of traveling while being still. New musical territory can only be discovered once. Chuck van Zyl has built profoundly upon all of his.
The CD "Celestial Mechanics" was originally released by Centaur Discs Ltd in 1993 and re-issued by industry8 in 2017 and 2018
Tracks 2 & 3 were previously released on the audio cassette "Callisto" (1989)
Tracks 1 & 4 were previously released on the audio cassette "The Moment of Totality" (1990)
Chuck van Zyl has been at his own unique style of electronic music since 1983. His musical sensibilities evoke a sense of discovery, with each endeavor marking a new frontier of sound.
In early December of 2021 a circle of CIMA of PA donors assembled in the church sanctuary of St Mary's Hamilton Village for an intimate "Candle Concert" Chuck van Zyl
"Against the Fall of Night" was played live in the moment before a limited, enthusiastic, informed audience. Proceeds benefit The Rotunda in Philadelphia Chuck van Zyl
supported by 17 fans who also own “Celestial Mechanics”
A wonderful soundscape to visualise & meditate on a better New Year, & how music can truly help to plan it.
Favourite Track: Con. of the Moon. Listener-Part-Time
supported by 17 fans who also own “Celestial Mechanics”
Stunning, Hypnotic, Immersive - I haven't even played the 2nd track yet as I can't stop looping the first - I don't want it to end! Been a lifelong fan & this really is jaw dropping... 10/10 Mat Mckenzie
A majestic yet delicate album from Berlin school-style synth masters Node, recorded in 1994 but unreleased until now. Bandcamp New & Notable Mar 21, 2023