Recorded partially in the studio using two inch analog tape and partially in concert, Sound Tribe Sector 9's third release, Offered Schematics Suggesting Peace, further blurs the distinction between live performance and straight-up sound manipulation. Without an audience to worry about, the band shines particularly on the studio tracks, where they subtly tweak their presentation to maximum effect. For most of the studio work, they are joined by former
Aquarium Rescue Unit and Surrender To The Air flautist
Kofi Burbridge, whose flute sounds as if it could lifted from an ancient jazz record. Oddly, despite the attention to quiet detail and perhaps due to a lack of drone, the album is less soothing and engaging then their previous (live) disc. ~ Jesse Jarnow