The intriguingly titled TechnoClassica is the latest (and sixth) effort from indie artist UltraMax (aka Pennsylvania artist Max Fomitchev). Inspired by modern day trance, he melds dance programming with classical music-- sometimes remixing classical works and other times creating originals with classical flair.
The catchy single (and one of the few vocal tracks on the album) "I'm Attracted to You," features a barely adequate vocal performance by Stefani Letcher. A few minutes in, the UltraMax vs. Prokofiev mix moves out of its amatuer-sounding beginnings as the programming grows more serious and the vocals get more effects, but still could use some production and programming tweaks. Despite the lead vocals being a bit too quiet, the Original mix is equally decent with some nice strings and piano tracks woven in.
"Beethoven vs. Vivaldi" is an enjoyable number with some upbeat alternating excerpts from each composer accented by violin, strings, and some compelling dance programming. The haunting sound of "All You Need" is complemented by piano, strings, and some female vocals. Finally, groovy dance instrumental "UltraMax vx. Bach: Choral in F minor" really steps up to the plate with wind instruments, strings, and organ working together while spurts of operatic fem vocal color waft in and out.
Although most of these tracks would benefit from some shortening, and I'd like to have seen at least 12 tracks here, it's nice to encounter an artist with such a passion for two opposing types of music work diligently and pull off such a project-- overall, an interesting mostly instrumental album. Check it out for yourself, as well as samples of more UltraMax tracks at their website.
