RAGAZZI (Germany), January/February 1999, p. 9

1997 Magnetic Oblivion

My main impression: this band sounds to me like Gong during their mid-70s period, with their technically intricate and percussion-laden rock, furiously played, giving the percussion instruments much room to stand out. So it is with Ed Macan’s Hermetic Science. Totally without vocals and guitar, elegantly accompanied by bass and drumkit only, Ed Macan plays vibraphone, marimba, piano, glockenspiel, and tubular bells. Here I am fond of the vibraphone–an instrument which is much too seldom used and yet creates so unbelievably much atmosphere and sonic space. I can only say that this CD, which doubtless, unfortunately, can only be obtained by direct order from the USA, is truly a dream. Good drumming, quiet background from the bass, and always lively playing on the percussion instruments makes this music to enjoy. The compositions are lively and multi-faceted. The tension which arises from the nuanced, rhythmically accented intonation gives me sheer goosebumps, powerfully so with, for instance, "Mars, the Bringer of War" by classical composer Gustav Holst. The band has even recorded a second CD, which should be released this spring, and if I have the good fortune to obtain a copy, I will report on it as well. Briefly, Ed Macan has announced that keyboards and guitar will also be included. But, I trust, also the genial vibraphone!

Volkmar Mantei