This review covers the ambient track Chicane – Offshore (Original Version).
This track was released in 1996 as a single.
The track starts with some synth pads. A high hat is also present. The guitars then gradually fade in. Some additional pads come in. A piano also makes the occasional appearance. A drum kit then comes in. The additional synth pads make a return. Some woodwind instruments also make short appearances.
A drop does occur, leaving only a drum kit. Some synth effects come in as well as some woodwind elements. A bassline too is present. The track then drops again.
The guitar element returns along with the brief appearances of the woodwind elements. Some synth effects also come in. The guitars become louder and is backed by a second guitar element. Synth strings then back the guitars. The woodwind elements have an alternative appearance here. The guitars then end the section with the track dropping again.
Some synth pads start the track buildup again. Piano and guitars also return. Additional synth pads also make an appearance. The drum kit returns. After that, the synth strings make a return as well. Several elements then drop out, leaving only the synth pads and the guitar. Both elements gradually fade out, ending the track.
One thing I like about this track is that it tries to go for that relaxing tropical vacation sound. It succeeds this effort to great effect. The subtle traditional elements, guitar, and woodwind instrument (I believe it is a pan flute) work well together here in making this happen. At the same time, it’s not overly energetic and, instead, relies on more relaxing tones. It works quite well.
My only issue with this track is the gradual increase in the guitar volume part way through. Other elements could help emphasize the guitar, but just increasing the guitar once almost randomly only cheapens the track in this case.
Still, this is a very solid track. It’s got great traditional elements to help give this track a tropical sound. The guitars and synth pads really give this track a nice relaxing mood throughout to great effect. The mastering could have been improved by not just cheaply raising the volume of the guitar part way through though. Overall, a pretty solid track.
Score
7.5/10
Drew Wilson on Twitter: @icecube85 and Facebook.
