Alpha Wave (System 7)

• house
• techno
• acid
• System 7

In the expansive realm of electronic music, System 7’s 1995 release, “Alpha Wave,” stands as a monumental testament to the ever-evolving nature of the genre. Formed by Steve Hillage and Miquette Giraudy, both formerly of the psychedelic space rock collective Gong, System 7 emerged from the ashes of the UK’s underground dance music movement, carrying the torch of innovation and exploration into the new decade. Today, nearly three decades later, “Alpha Wave” continues to resonate as a timeless classic that bridges the gap between the unbridled energy of techno and the ethereal tranquility of ambient music.

The opening track, “Alpha Wave (Plastikman Acid House Mix)” (19:35), is a true masterpiece, encapsulating the relentless drive of techno and the hypnotic allure of acid house. Clocking in at over 19 minutes, this sprawling epic, remixed by the legendary Richie Hawtin under his Plastikman moniker, takes listeners on a transcendent journey through pulsating beats and swirling, mind-bending synths. The track’s backbone is built on an insistent 303 bassline, which serves as a constant reminder of the song’s acid roots. The ebb and flow of intensity throughout the extended runtime expertly showcases the synergy between System 7’s sonic vision and Hawtin’s undeniable remixing prowess.

“Alpha Wave (Alpha Mix)” (6:02), the first of the two B-side tracks, is a more concise exploration of the same themes found in the Plastikman Acid House Mix. With its faster tempo and more aggressive synth work, the Alpha Mix is a powerful, driving force that simultaneously pays homage to the duo’s space rock origins while firmly planting its feet in the realm of techno. While the song may lack the sprawling narrative found in its A-side counterpart, it more than makes up for it in sheer energy and focus, making for a compelling and infectious listening experience.

Finally, “Alpha Wave (That Sound Mix)” (6:51) rounds out the release with a more contemplative and subdued approach. The track’s slower tempo, coupled with its emphasis on spacious, atmospheric synths, offers a stark contrast to the aggressive energy found in the previous two tracks. It is within this juxtaposition that the true essence of System 7’s artistry can be fully appreciated. The duo’s ability to craft such diverse soundscapes, while still maintaining a cohesive and unified vision, is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Throughout the entirety of “Alpha Wave,” System 7’s penchant for collaboration is on full display. The duo’s work with a wide array of luminary artists, including Derrick May, Alex Paterson of The Orb, Carl Craig, and Laurent Garnier, has undeniably shaped their unique sound. This penchant for collaboration is evident in the seamless melding of genres and styles found within the release, a testament to the project’s dynamic range and the willingness of Hillage and Giraudy to constantly push the boundaries of electronic music.

Moreover, “Alpha Wave” is a prime example of how System 7 has always been more than just a techno and ambient outfit. Their inclusion of the guitar in their compositions sets them apart from their contemporaries and adds an additional layer of depth and complexity to their sound. While the guitar may not be the most prominent element in the release, its presence is felt, adding a subtle but essential human touch to the otherwise synthetic sonic landscape.

In terms of theme and message, “Alpha Wave” seems to speak to the duality of the human experience. The combination of relentless techno beats and soothing ambient textures creates a sense of balance, reflecting the constant struggle between chaos and tranquility that defines our existence. This duality is further emphasized by the antithetical nature of the release, as tracks such as the frenetic “Alpha Wave (Alpha Mix)” and the introspective “Alpha Wave (That Sound Mix)” represent the contrasting sides of the human psyche. The inclusion of the guitar, an instrument more commonly associated with traditional rock music, serves to further illustrate this theme of duality, as the organic and the synthetic are seamlessly intertwined to create a cohesive whole.

The influences that informed the creation of “Alpha Wave” are vast and varied, with traces of the pioneering psychedelic space rock of Gong and the ambient stylings of Steve Hillage’s influential solo LP “Rainbow Dome Musick” shining through. Additionally, the impact of their contemporaries and collaborators, such as Derrick May’s futuristic techno sound and The Orb’s ambient house explorations, can be heard throughout the release. However, it is ultimately System 7’s unique vision and innovative spirit that brings these disparate influences together, crafting a sound that is unmistakably their own.

It is important to recognize the significance of “Alpha Wave” within the broader context of System 7’s extensive discography. While the release itself may have been a turning point for the duo, it is also a testament to their continued evolution and growth as artists. Over the course of their three-decade-long career, Hillage and Giraudy have consistently pushed the boundaries of what electronic music can be, with “Alpha Wave” standing as a shining example of their commitment to experimentation and collaboration.

In conclusion, System 7’s “Alpha Wave” is a remarkable achievement that continues to captivate and inspire listeners nearly thirty years after its initial release. The seamless fusion of techno and ambient music, the masterful incorporation of the guitar, and the emphasis on collaboration with groundbreaking artists all contribute to the release’s enduring legacy. “Alpha Wave” serves not only as a snapshot of a pivotal moment in electronic music history but also as a testament to the genre’s boundless potential for innovation and reinvention. The antithetical nature of the release, with its contrasting styles and themes, is a reminder that true artistry lies in the ability to find harmony amidst chaos, and it is within this delicate balance that System 7’s brilliance truly shines.