Kruglov's previous series of records for Leo Feigin's label offered a view of a precocious talent. It's almost a relief that this new release is less complete and satisfying than its predecessors. If it suffers in comparison with Russian Metaphor, Identification and Karate, those of lesser ability will still envy the achievements of Impulse. This new album suggests Kruglov is reaching for something new both in his playing and in his conception. He's not quite there yet. Kruglov's unusual ability to balance form and freedom is powerfully present on ‘Echoes of Russian Metaphor’ and ‘The Ascent’, as his skill in building and sustaining a climactic sense of closure that exhilarates rather than exhausts. At other times, it is as if a certain frustration enters proceedings and the sense of a distinctive, original voice is for the moment lost. When Kruglov scales that next peak, watch out because it promises to be an awesome vista. For the present, Impulse merely establishes base camp.