I bought this record from eBay in 2016 and it comes from an era in which a gatefold sleeve was seen as a fairly standard way of expanding the artwork rather than an extravagance required to hold two records. One interesting element of the sleeve is the fact that RCA seemed to feel the need to point out that the album could be played on a mono turntable if fitted with the correct pic-up head - but "those in doubt should consult their dealer".
On listening to this album I realise it presents a dichotomy. Whilst we hear some of the best electronic themes Vangelis ever recorded, we are also subjected to some terrible improvised jazz too. I find the track "Main Sequence" particularly distressing and I fail to see how it has any relevance to the theme of the album. This isn't electronic music; its just self indulgent, overblown and boring jazz.
And don't give me any of that, "You just hate jazz because it requires you to actually listen to it and your pea brain can't cope" attitude. I think I am accustomed to hearing something other than pop music in 4/4 as I grew up listening to an almost relentless barrage of Opera, I love most of Beethoven's symphonies (Fourth especially) and swing groups like The Ink Spots sound amazing to my ears. I think I am accustomed to various styles of music. I just hate jazz.
So the standout tracks are the wonderful "Pulstar" and "Alpha" with honourable mentions to the ambience of "Freefall" and the intriguing title track. Everything else you can keep. 2/5