Tournado

Further evidence that Tangerine Dream had entered a new phase in the '90s: a live tour that actually showcased songs from their then-current catalog. Tournado is the second set (intact with no overdubs) of an April 23 concert in Zabrze, Poland, delivered as part of their 1997 Eurotour. Augmented by guitarist Zlatko Perica and percussionist Emil Hachfield (who starts things off on the uncredited opening track), Edgar and Jerome Froese run through selections from their studio albums, beginning with Rockoon. The sound and sonic detail is typically outstanding, and in many cases these live versions have more energy and presence than the originals. Far from the meditative atmosphere one would find at an early Tangerine Dream concert, Tournado nearly defies the listener to sit still by mixing energizing melodies with contagious club rhythms. Different versions of the popular "220 Volt" and "Lamb With Radar Eyes" are highlights from the concert, although there isn't a weak link in the chain. Edgar and Jerome Froese weave their electronic magic, Hachfield's electronic drums are a vast improvement over synthetic drum patterns, and Perica gets in some excellent guitar solos on cuts like "Firetongues." With its crisp sound and brisk pacing, Tournado functions as a fine overview of Tangerine Dream's work. If listeners haven't purchased any of their work from the '90s, this might be the best place to start. Judging by the music on this disc, Tangerine Dream puts on a great show. ~ Dave Connolly|