Criss Angel - Mindfreak
2002 / 41:59 Minutes / 14 Tracks / Studio/ Soundtrack/ CD
Release Date: 2002 - Apitrag Records
Produced by: Criss Angel
Website: www.crissangel.com

Reviewed by Matt Rowe on October 10, 2002

I first ran across the phenomena that is Criss Angel in an ad tucked away in a Goth magazine named Carpe Noctem. While I did not come across anything again until just recently, namely his Times Square Water Tomb, I never forgot the aura of mysticism that exuded from the ad's picture.

Criss Angel is an all purpose entertainer and performer that is destined for greatness in the annals of illusionists. Not only has he surpassed the incredible feats of Houdini and other known greats, he has one upped them all by providing a bigger plate of goodies. He not only is the main attraction in a spectacular show of magic and illusion but he arranges and created the musical soundtrack as well.

How good is the music? As good as it can get for a show of this nature. Criss Angel realizes that his show will be the best ever produced and requires his stamp in every aspect. The music on this disc is very atmospheric and fills every nook and cranny for every possible event that is showcased. Running the gamut from electronica/house to eerie effects and melancholic music, the Mindfreak soundtrack is an achievement.

The disc is good enough to listen to prior to having seen the show but takes on a whole new dimension after having seen the show. While this is true for any soundtrack, especially the Cirque du Soleil shows, this particular disc captures the essence of the magic , spinning magic of its own. The disc presents a strong show atmosphere and can be, at times, danceable.

A Criss Angel show is not to be missed. And with his increasing popularity stemming from his most recent event, The Water Tomb in Times Square, where he remained submerged in a small glass case filled with water for 24 hours breathing only through a small tube. At the end of the 24 hour period, the tube was removed and he was forced to extricate himself in order to survive. The event was a success. This served to bring him to the public eye, alerting an audience to the untold and horrifying acts that only Criss Angel can perform.

There is an ABC special airing October 20th on ABC Family at 9p E/P that is not to be missed, not if you want to be a witness to the most electrifyingly impressive magician in the history of mankind.

The soundtrack, Mindfreak, is a good disc of music that captures the intensity of the show effectively. You won't be disappointed.

DISC

The sound textures and sound fields are well mixed and presented. The stereo L/R channel play is effectively used and results in a pure wall of sound mix.

PACKAGING

This disc provides a four page colour booklet with extensive credits, an array of incredible photo shots arranged in a montage. The cover shot is an intrigiung one that sets the tone for the listener.

THE FINAL SAY

Bottom line....don't miss the ABC show. And get this disc after to relive, in your mind, the beauty of the show. Check out his website and go to the interactive videos section to be entertained and to prep you for the special.

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