Now here’s a very nice art concept album initiated by Synth.nl (aka Michel van Osenbruggen), aptly called "Dutch Masters", meant to further promote the Dutch synthesizer music scene. Ten talented Dutch synthesists were offered to collaborate on this project, for which they all derived core inspiration from a painting by a Dutch master painter, later on transforming that into a unique, vibrant composition. The outcome in my opinion offers the best of both worlds, the ancient meeting the modern, offering some lyrical, airy, moving and romantic sound imaginaries of which the strong album opener "Nachtwacht" by Synth.nl is already great example.
Next to Synth.nl, the other nine Dutch participating musicians on the project are: Ron Boots, Gert Emmens, Eric van der Heijden, Bas Broekhuis, Remy, Void (aka Danyo Romijn), René Splinter, Meesha, en René van der Wouden. The output on each of the ten tracks is fresh, versatile: ranging from romantic sketches (Eric van der Heijden), retro-sequenced outings (Gert Emmens, Void) and circular excursions (Remy) to dreamy, airy stuff (Bas Broekhuis) and even a bit of peculiar experimental electronics combined with the orchestral (Ron Boots).
All in all, there’s some quality electronic music featured on "Dutch Masters" (released as a limited edition of 400 copies), displaying a diversity of painting with sound that’s most rewarding and satisfying. Chapeau!