Is this the future of electronic music? If so, then remember the name David Israel (aka Smite Matter) whose debut album “Technopolis Lost” was made entirely on the iPad using a number of music applications to create a haunting piece of ambience. The sound quality is wonderful (as you might expect with such advanced technology). But to think none of it was created on a conventional keyboard or synth is quite mind-blowing!
With all the latest gadgets in sound at his fingertips it would have been a real shame if Smite Matter had turned out a disappointment but, I’m happy to say that it is anything but that. 
The sounds are a great vehicle for this style of music but the tracks must, ultimately, be judged on their own merits.
The album begins with the title track which is an excellent opener to the album. Full of mystery and a hint of threat.
Track 2 “3rd Rail” has a fine bass rhythm throughout lifting the initial sense of claustrophobia created on track 1.
David’s music is inspired by nature and city life and “Under The Moss,” I guess, is influenced by the former and is the longest track at just over 12 minutes. Some ambient pieces of that length can be just too long but around the halfway mark it takes on a different, darker feel (two tracks within one).
“A Matter Of Rain” features a distant echoing female voice on this very atmospheric, Eno-like track.
“A View Of Secrets” slowly unfurls like the petals on a flower to reveal another strangely uplifting ambient offering. Two words that don’t normally sit too well together: ambient and uplifting.
It was around track 6, “From The Shade,” that I realised all is not as it may seem with Smite Matter. Just when you think you know what you’re getting once again this one changes with a very intriguing end.
“Glacierized” is like these slow-moving mountains of ice, incessant and powerful. Soundtrack-like. A good piece for visuals, I think.
“Circuit Bards” has an understated rhythm running through it. Quietly simmering. Finishing (personally-speaking) with the first hints of a TD-influence.
The next track, “Face Of Two” begins and ends in TD-style. Possibly the most Berlin School-sounding track on the album.
“Familiar” is one of David’s older compositions and was made entirely on the iPod Touch.
“The Time We Got Back” lasts 8 minutes and, sadly, comes to life a little too late for my liking. But at least it does!
“Intergain” closes the album as it started with another dark and broody piece. A real sense of forboding here. Play this one with the lights out.
I’m sure this is just the beginning for Smite Matter. The possibilities with IOS music is limitless and that thought itself must be a source of inspiration for any artist.
Smite Matter resisted the temptation to be overwhelmed by the technology and just play an album of demonstration sounds. No, this is a thoughtful, serious debut where David Israel lays down his marker for future reference.
I really like this album. A mix of new technology with powerful old-style EM compositions.
Recommended listening.

BRUCE GALL
“SUNDAY SYNTH”
www.arfm.co.uk
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