Circular - Nordic Circles | Live Nuit Hypnotique #4 FLAC

This is a good album, but certainly, in my opinion, not a great one. Some of it doesn't stand out and fails to distinguish itself in too many tracks, especially from other Ultimae artists that might be considered second-tier. Too much of the album fades into the background.

However, I give this release a solid 4/5. None of the tracks on the album are at all bad, just not particularly memorable. So why a 4/5 instead of, say, a more middling 3/5? First off, I personally am I big fan of the Ultimae sound and you find it in spades in this release. Second, although for the most part, with this genre, I'm not a huge fan of live releases, this doesn't sound "live" (much like the others in the "Live Nuit Hypnotique #4" series and the H.U.V.A. Network "Live at Glastonbury" release. Third, there are standout tracks that are worth checking out. Track 2 is quite good, and Track 9 is even better; it's my personal favorite on this album and I do rather wish the rest of the album had this kind of tight song construction and melody. I also thought Track 7 was well done.

On the downside, I would characterize 1,4, and 8, as somewhat filler-y.

In summation, if you're an Ultimae fanatic you'll enjoy this release well enough, I think. For the rest of the listeners, you might find this to be little more than pleasant and relaxing background music for the most part.

Recommendation: check out Track 9 to hear the apex of Circular's talents on this release.