paul nelson: vortex

Vortex was released in 1981 on Paul Nelson's own Optiman Systems Inc imprint. Nelson grew up around Portland and had a strong background in music and music theory. He built a PAIA synthesizer when he was in junior high and developed a keen intuition for analog synthesis. Eventually he purchased a MiniMoog and was very influenced by Alan Parsons, ELP, and ENO. Armed with more gear as time went on (Sequential Circuits 600 sequencer, Oberheim DS-2, etc), Paul was offered an opportunity to record his own album which led to the Recording Associates sessions during which Vortex was born. The LP was also half-speed mastered at JVC Studios in CA. 1000 copies were originally pressed and self-distributed by Paul. The opening track 'Automated Man,' which also happens to be the only track with vocals, is a slab of genuine electro greatness with its sharp synth hooks and vocoded vocals. The LP takes many twists and turns with many tracks of sequenced pulsations, electronic drums, and rhythms reminiscent of the sci-fi soundtracks mixed with a healthy dose of almost proggy space/cosmic disco crossed with later-age Tangerine Dream. 'Vortex 2' is a perfect example of the above description with imagery of a Blade Runner-esque chase scene meets Carpenter at his most upbeat. 'Labyrinth' takes more a more relaxed synth odyssey approach with slower percussion and a spacier vibe overall. The rest of side 2 'Vortex 3-4-5' is a magnificent build up of ambient soundscapes that morph into a slow cosmic burner and fades out again into the darkness to close the LP. All tracks have been restored and remastered by Paul Nelson for this release. For many years this LP could be found in the PNW in record bins but over the last decade, it has been become quite rare which has led to it fetching rather high prices on the collector's market. Medical Records is thrilled to introduce the world to this work of art again. For fans of library synth, sci-fi soundtracks, and other more sequenced electronic acts such as Tangerine Dream, Axxess, and minimal synth. This reissue is presented on high-quality 180 gram splatter paint on opaque white vinyl. Features exact reproduction of the front and infamous back covers.