Encore

AMG Review of Encore

Jim Brenholts
All Music Guide

Encore -- Tangerine Dream Live, 1977 is one of the better concert albums from Tangerine Dream. As with most of their live releases, this disc features all new material. Each of the long-form (over 16 minutes) pieces has its own set of movements. In effect, it is like listening to four electronic symphonies. This is also one of the strongest TD lineups. The set features Edgar Froese, Christopher Franke and Peter Baumann on synthesizers, effects and other electronic devices. (It is Baumann's last recording with the band.) The music ranges from dirge-like drones to piano solos to crashing experimental textures. There are echoes of progressive and avant-garde rock. The set is uniquely Tangerine Dream, however, with similarities to Genesis, Pink Floyd and other art rock practitioners of that era.