Artist: Spektralized CD Title: In Between The Opposite Label: Space Race Records (EK Product) Genres: Synthpop,EBM, industrial, electronic
Spektralized is back with a brand spankin' new album called In Between The Opposite. It is signed under the popular Italian industrial label (EK).Elektro Kommando. This is the same label as well known artists (Vomito Negro,Impakt! and one of my favorites, Darkmen.). In Between The Opposite,
is making quite a splash already. In just 3 days from the release, the
EK Product label office was completely sold out out the first pressing
of CD's! No worries, we are assured that they are pressing up fresh
copies of the hit album as we speak.
Before I dive into my review, I'd like to share some Spektralized history with you. Technically, Spektralized was formed in 1994. They released a cassette tape called "Genetic"
that was only limited to 100 copies. The cassette was sold out in
three weeks and it even made it to a review in the biggest newspaper in
Østfold, Norway. The band split up in 1997. The founder, Richard
Bjorklund (Vox,lyrics,Music), decided that he wanted to continue making
music himself, so rather than using his own name for his solo venture,
he took the name Spektralized again and started working on his own
material. Nine years later after Genetic, Richard released his debut album Elements of Truth
in 2003, under the name Spektralized. This would be the first record
released under the name Spektralized since their promo debut Genetic in 1994. The album was produced by Sebastian R. Komor ( Komor Kommando, Icon of Coil) and was widely received by fans and critics alike. It also produced the hit single "Allied". The follow up album Capture The Moment,
was not released until three years later in 2006. This album too was
met with great success. In fact, it actually made it all the way to the
top five list for Best Album at the Scandinavian Alternative Music
Awards in 2007, along with bands such as Covenant and Apoptygma Berzerk.
In between the second and third album The Puzzle, which would not be released for four more years. Richard decided to try his hand at remixing his famous friend's records like Apoptygma Berzerk and Komor Kommando. The Puzzle released in 2010, was also a huge success. Two years later in 2012 he released the My Needs EP which would act as a precursor to their brand new album In Between The Opposite just released a few days ago in 2013. First
off, I have to say that I'm really on the fence on this one. I just
don't like Richard's voice and I just can't get past that. Besides his
accent being very strong, there is just something about his voice that
doesn't sit right with me. I thought since I like the music so much,
maybe I could walk away from it for a day, come back to it and listen to
it with fresh ears, but that did not work. If I'm going to listen to
something vocal, I have to like the voice, and in this instance I just
don't. There are many acts like have strong accents like 80's synthpop legends Cetu Javu,Camouflage,Savage and Boytronic.
Savage is a great example, because his accent is so thick and heavy
that you couldn't cut it with a knife. However, on most of his records,
his voice is pleasant to the ear, even the Depeche Mode
cover of Strangelove works for me. Athough it is an awful cover and his
accent is the strongest, there is still a certain quality to his voice
that flows with the bubbly synthpop music he makes. Look at bands like Depeche Mode, Red Flag, Cause & Effect, Celebrate The Nun, and T42, their voices have this soothing sweetness that fits their music like a glove, and even flows better than Savage.
I just don't think that his voice fits his music. I know a lot of you
will disagree with me and that's fine. As I've said many times before,
my reviews are simply one man's opinion. Like them or hate them, they
are still just my opinion. Now that being said, I am not usually an
advocate for instrumental albums, but in this case, since I don't like
his voice, I'd make an exception. I'll be honest, usually if I don't
like something as huge as a vocal, I'm going to be turned off. Much like
a fart at the dinner table, not only will it ruin the meal, but the
whole experience as well.
I
will say that his voice did not bother me as much in a song like
"Changes". I actually enjoyed his vocal performance. It really reminded
me of Red Flag, who I am a big fan of. But honestly, as
far as Richard's vocals go, "Changes" was the only song I could
stomach. On some songs, like the more Nine Inch Nails- influenced 'Reborn" and "Children of Tomorrow", his voice sounds like Trent Reznor if Trent was from Norway. I didn't like that much either. However, I was very impressed with the music. Richard and his crew (Ken A Nilsen -Guitars, Magnus
Sørli - keys and second voice) are extremely talented. I love how the
album politely danced around from old skool synthpop and industrial to
more modernized styles like futurepop. In Between The Opposite
is cleverly adorned with big dancefloor anthems like "Children of
Tomorrow", To Be Recalled", "Unite Us All" and 'Reborn' , an electro,
almost experimental track "Sci-Fi Break Up" to more downbeat and moody
tracks like "Reflecting Memories", "Different People" "Looking Forward"
and "Changes". Overall, a very solid album with strong substance and
many layers. There is an obvious Depeche Mode
influence here. Especially classic 80's Depeche Mode throughout most of
the album. Depeche Mode had this certain dark magic that only they
could brilliantly execute. Although I do not think Spektralized came
close to re-creating that magic, I was still strongly reminded of those
wonderful, early, dark and foreboding Depeche Mode records that became a
part of the very fabric of my soul. Songs like "Reflecting Memories",
"Different People" "Looking Forward" and the aforementioned "Changes",
reminds me of that comfortable and familiar place that only Depeche Mode
could ever take me.
Don't get me wrong, I think In Between The Opposite
is an excellent album in terms of musical composition and production,
but for me it's a miss, because I don't care for his voice. Much like
Depeche Mode and many other synth bands of their ilk, Spektralized's
lyrics are deep, though provoking and intense. I can really appreciate
an album that so many diverse and eclectic influences and styles on one
record, especially because it really works for them. One really bright,
shining moment I wanted to mention is the two incredible remixes by Sebastian Komor (Komor Kommando, Icon of Coil) who I love. Now
you might think my next comment might contradict everything I just
said, but please read carefully the words I am saying, it is quite the
opposite. I highly recommend Spektralized In Between The Opposite
. Besides the vocals, which many of you will probably love and enjoy,
the music and the fantastic overall feeling and atmosphere of the album
is a winner. Fans of many diverse styles like synthpop, goth,
industrial, EBM and futurepop will love Spektralized. Sadly for me, I'm going to have to pass.
NOTE:
Possibly due to it selling out, Amazon says that the album will not be
released until April 30th, 2013. Buy you can pre-order it now.
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support for marriage equality on 3/26 & 3/27 as the Supreme Court
addresses the issues of same-sex marriage for the first time in US
history!
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NEW ORDER- LOST SIRENS
NEW ORDER IS
BACK!!!!...(well sort of) I can't tell you how exciting it is to see
and hear the 80's so fresh and alive. I think 2013 is the year when all
of these classic bands are getting back to basics. That is the way it should be. Sometimes a winning formula just shouldn't be messed with.
IS NEW ORDER ACTUALLY BACK? WHY IS THE ALBUM CALLED LOST SIRENS? IS LOST SIRENS AN ALBUM THAT SHOULD HAVE STAYED LOST?
Artist: New Order CD Title: Lost Sirens Label: Rhino Records Genre: Alternative, Indie
NEW ORDER IS BACK!!!!...(well
sort of) I can't tell you how exciting it is to see and hear the 80's
so fresh and alive. I think 2013 is the year when all of these classic
bands are getting back to basics. That is the way it should be.
Sometimes a winning formula just shouldn't be messed with. Most of you are quite familiar with supergroup New Order, but just in case, let's do a quick recap. From tragedy breeds genius. Shortly after the untimely suicide of Ian Curtis ( Joy Division, Warsaw) New Order was born. The band was formed in 1980 by Bernard Sumner (vocals, guitars, keyboards & synthesisers), Peter Hook (bass, vocals) and Stephen Morris
(drums, electronic drums, keyboards & synthesisers) – the remaining
members of Joy Division, following the suicide of vocalist Ian
Curtis,with the addition of Gillian Gilbert (keyboards
& synthesisers, guitars). In 1993, the band broke-up amidst tension
between band members, but reformed in 1998. In 2001, Phil Cunningham
(guitars, keyboards & synthesisers) replaced Gilbert, who left the
group due to family commitments. In 2007, Peter Hook left the band and
the band broke-up again, with Sumner stating in 2009 that he no longer
wishes to make music as New Order. The band reunited in 2011 without
Hook, with Gilbert returning to the fold and Tom Chapman
replacing Hook on bass. During the band's career and in between lengthy
breaks, band members have been involved in several solo projects, such
as Sumner's Electronic and Bad Lieutenant; Hook's Monaco and Revenge and Gilbert's and Morris' The Other Two. Cunningham was previously a member of Marion and with Sumner and Chapman was a member of Bad Lieutenant. From
their debut album Movement in 1981, New Order produced some of the most
amazing and well produced music that the music world would ever know.
From lush, acoustic, almost balearic and thought provoking songs, to
high octane dance club anthems, New Order carved out their own place in
history as one of the most influential,innovative and exciting bands.
They would eventually become one of the most important and recognizable
bands of all time. New Order have not released an album since Waiting
For The Sirens' Call in 2005, now almost eight years later, New Order
has returned in full force with their ninth studio album Lost Sirens. Now
that you are brought up to speed, let's talk about Lost Sirens. Lost
Sirens is a collection of eight tracks all recorded during the sessions
for their 2005 studio album Waiting For The Sirens Call. The bands
line-up at the time consisted of Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen
Morris and Philip Cunningham. All tracks are previously unreleased.
'Hellbent' as featured on a 2011 Rhino compilation, is featured here in
its original, non radio-mix form and 'I Told You So' is a previously
unreleased mix. My favorite song on Lost Sirens "I'll Stay With You", is
like slipping your feet right into your favorite old pair of comfy warm
slippers. I'm not sure how such a great stand out track missed the cut
for Waiting For The Siren's Call? It almost seems a crime, but better
late than never. Shake It Up, sounds like something from their more
electronica styled album Get Ready, If you are looking for any club
anthems like Bizarre Love Triangle or Blue Monday, you will not find it
here. This is pretty standard mellow New Order. However, Sugarcane is probably the most upbeat, catchy and danceable track on the album.With
songs like Hellbent and I've Got A Feeling, this probably ranks as one
of the most heavily guitar dominated records New Order has ever made.
So,
no I lied, New Order is not back, but since they just found these
unreleased songs from 2005, and released them in 2013, it could very
well be a new album. I think although it is a solid effort for a
collection of lost or previously unreleased tracks, it does not have the
strength to withstand a whole album's worth of music that is worthy of
New Order's awesome potential. There is a nice eclectic mix of styles to
choose from, but it lacks that certain something that we have come to
expect from New Order. It really is what it is. It certainly isn't a
"new" New Order album, nor does it profess to be, but I'm damned happy
that they released it anyway. Think of this as the deluxe edition of
Waiting For The Sirens Call, nothing new or exciting, but something all
New Order fans just have to have. I will buy it and add it to my
collection.
I just wish that New Order would release a new New Order album. Your fans are patiently waiting. The time is now!
Listen to I'll Stay With You from New Order- Lost Sirens
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JOHNNY MARR- THE MESSENGER
This is
the album you have all been waiting for folks. This is the official
debut album The Messenger by Johnny Marr. Besides Morrissey, Johnny Marr
was the driving force behind 80's rock legends The Smiths. Johnny
was also a member of several successful outfits like The The, Modest
Mouse,The Pretenders, The Cribs and Electronic, the supergroup that
featured Marr, Bernard Sumner (New Order) and Chris Lowe & Neil
Tennant (Pet Shop Boys).
WILL THERE BE A REUNION FOR THE
SMITHS? DOES MARR NEED TO HIDE IN THE SHADOWS OF POP ICON MORRISSEY? DID
CRITICS CRUCIFY MARR FOR HIS FIRST SOLO RELEASE?
Artist: Johnny Marr CD Title: The Messenger Label: Warner Bros. Genre: Alternative, Indie
This is the album you have all been waiting for folks. This is the official debut album The Messenger by Johnny Marr. Besides Morrissey, Johnny Marr was the driving force behind 80's rock legends The Smiths. Johnny was also a member of several successful outfits like The The, Modest Mouse,The Pretenders, The Cribs and Electronic, the supergroup that featured Marr, Bernard Sumner (New Order) and Chris Lowe & Neil Tennant (Pet Shop Boys).
In 2002, Johnny formed the group Johnny Marr & The Healers
and released an album called Boomslang. This featured Johnny Marr on
vocals as well as guitar. Though Marr was still actively making music in
The Cribs, it would be almost ten years later before
he would dip his toe into solo waters. In an October 2007 interview on
BBC Radio Five Live, Marr hinted at a potential reformation of The Smiths in the future, saying that "stranger
things have happened so, you know, who knows?" Marr went on to say that
"It's no biggy. Maybe we will in 18 or 32 years' time when we all need
to for whatever reasons, but right now Morrissey is doing his thing and I'm doing mine, so that's the answer really." This was the first indication of a possible Smiths reunion from Marr, who previously had said that reforming the band would be a bad idea.
To the delight of Marr fans everywhere, Marr announced in 2012 that he would be releasing a full solo album in 2013. In 2013, the NME awarded Marr its Godlike Genius award, hailing Marr as "not
content with rewriting the history of music with one of the world's
greatest ever bands, The Smiths, he's continued to push boundaries and
evolve throughout his career, working with some of the best and most
exciting artists on the planet". Marr was voted the fourth best guitarist of the last 30 years in a poll conducted by the BBC in 2010. So
does Johnny Marr shine as a solo entity, or should he only make a
career out of collaborations with other artists? As a fan of The Smiths and Electronic,
it was a wild and unexpected pleasure to hear guitar legend Johnny Marr
actually sing. His light and airy voice is more than pleasant to listen
to. While at times, often borders on an edgier, more powerful and
throaty delivery that reminds you instantly of a cross between Bernard Sumner (New Order) and Julian Cope ( The Teardrop Explodes). Unlike the easily forgettable Boomslang, which sounded more like The Healers
influence and less Marrs, his solo debut is exactly the kind of solo
album you would expect to hear from Marr. Fans of The Smiths and New
Order's more acoustic offerings, will instantly gravitate towards this
album chocked full of Marr's distinct guitar style. The 80's are once
again fresh and alive as we see and hear things through Marr's retro
colored glasses. The Messenger delivers a strong message indeed that
Johhny Marr is an incredible songwriter, musician and artist, who can
stand the test of time. Not many musicians can create magic 30 years ago
and make it sound just as fresh and exciting today. The Messenger
brings back the feeling of all of those hours spent listening to
alternative music on college radio. There
is honestly not a bad moment on The Messenger. Each song seems to be
woven together like a perfect, rich, alternative rock tapestry. Strong
melodies, catchy songs and Marr's aesthetic brilliance is a treat to the
ears and soothing to the soul.As you listen to The Messenger you can't
help but wonder why it took Marr so long to put out a proper solo
release. Many critics will be at the ready, cross, hammer and nails to crucify Marr for not sounding like Morrissey,
but Marr is not, nor will he ever be Morrissey. Marr has proved time
and time again that he is a force of nature on his own without having to
hide in the shadows of a huge pop icon like Morrissey. The Messenger is
filled with layers of smooth guitar riffs and expertly crafted rhythms.
Marr's voice fits his music like a glove. I can't pinpoint a particular
track that I enjoyed most, as they all are just incredible. Some tracks
might remind people of The Stone Roses, The Church, The Cure and even REM.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I loathe the digital age and digital
files. I am so happy that there is a CD available, because I will most
definitely be buying this CD and adding it proudly to my vast
collection.
Johnny Marr is an absolute genius. From start to finish, The Messenger is simply a work of art. I highly recommend it. If
you want to get the full Johnny Marr experience, be sure to also buy
the Upstarts single as it includes a great non album track called
Psychic Beginner.
Listen to Johnny Marr- Upstarts from The Messenger
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WIRE- CHANGE BECOMES US
UK post post,
alternative rock phenomenon Wire is back with a BRAND NEW album CHANGE
BECOMES US, and on March 25, you can once again experience the magic
that is Wire.
Is Wire still "ahead" in the music game, or is it time to throw in the towel.
Artist: Wire CD Title: Change Becomes Us Label: Pink Flag/Redeye Genre: alt rock/rock/new wave
UK post post, alternative rock phenomenon Wire is back, and on March 25, you can once again experience the magic that is Wire.
It has been three years since their last release Red Barked Tree
in 2010. Wire fans weren't totally starved waiting for another helping
of their favorite Brits, as they were treated to a nice thirteen track
compilation called The Black Session in 2011. It was recorded
in Paris, France for Bernard Lenoir's show C'EST LENOIR. However, fans
would have to wait another three years for their thirteenth official
studio album Change Becomes Us. From what I just heard, it was
well worth the wait. Wire is one of those bands that although they
evolve, they never really "change" that special unique quality that only
Wire can posess. Wire's
story began in 1977 in London, England. These four men Colin Newman
(vocals, guitar), Graham Lewis (bass, vocals), Bruce Gilbert (guitar),
and Robert Gotobed (drums) were quite instrumental in the development of
the post punk movement. Eventually, Bruce Gilbert would leave the band
and Wire would continue on as a threesome. In 1977, Wire released their
first album Pink Flag, which would eventually not only become a historic
album of great significance to the punk movement but to the burgeoning
music scene itself. "Pink Flag is perhaps the most original debut album to come out of the first wave of British punk", according to Allmusic". "Wire
are a definitive art punk or post-punk ensemble, mostly due to their
richly detailed and atmospheric sound, often obscure lyrical themes,
and, to a lesser extent, their Situationist political stance. The group
exhibited a steady development from an early raucous punk style (1977's
Pink Flag) to a more complex, structured sound involving increased use
of guitar effects and synthesizers (1978's Chairs Missing and 1979's
154). The band gained a reputation for experimenting with song
arrangements throughout its career" . Wire released three incredible albums in a row, The Ideal Copy (1987) which featured one of my all time favorite songs Ahead. A Bell Is A Cup... Until It Is Struck
(1988) which had the awesome Kidney Bingos and It's Beginning To And
Back Again (1989) which had the hit Eardrum Buzz. Though Wire would make
many albums, none would ever reach the pinnacle of perfection as Pink
Flag and the three aforementioned albums. Robert Gotobed left the band
in 1990, after the release of the album Manscape. Wire slightly changed their name to Wir. Under that name they released The First Letter
in 1991. It was not until 1999, that Wire again became a full-time
entity and changed their name back to Wire. It would be thirteen long
years before Wire would release another album.Robert Gotobed now using
his birth name ( Robert Grey) once again rejoined Wire and the original
trio was back in place. Two EPs and an album called Send
(2003) would follow. In 2006, Wire's 1970s albums were re-released with
original vinyl track listings. A full-length album of new material
entitled Object 47, was released in July 2008. In January of 2011, the
band released their twelfth studio album, Red Barked Tree. Since around 2000 Wire started releasing their own material on their label Pinkflag. Change Becomes Us is
a continuation of everything that made Wire great, amazing music, great
lyrics and a solid,structured, full bodied sound that we have come to
expect from these post punk pioneers. Colin Newman's vocals are just as
crisp and fresh as ever. I for one, am very excited to announce that
Wire has for the most part, gone back to their classic 80's sound. Wire
always offers a nice variety of styles, as they seamlessly go from a
harder edged tracks like "Adore Your Island" and "Stealth of a Stork",
that reminds one of their post punk days, to a more somber and often
sullen side of Wire on "Re-Invent Your Second Wheel", "Time Lock Fog"
and "BW Silence".
Wire
does not disappoint. Beautiful haunting melodies, fast paced and often
harder edged post punk moments, combined with that rare and odd, extra
something special, like on Eels Sang, that only Wire can deliver.
I don't know if I would agree that "change becomes them" cause if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
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9th Evolution- 9E INC
If Gary Numan & Tubeway Army was to make a project with Nine Inch Nails, this is probably what it might sound like.
9th Evolution is a roller coaster ride of unexpected twists and turns and the thrill of not knowing what may be coming next, but will keep you coming back for more.
Artist: 9th Evolution CD Title: 9E INC Label: IotL Records (Industry of the Leeches) Genre: industrial/new wave/alternative/synthpop/electronic
Before I dive into my review of 9th Evolution's latest offering 9E INC, Let me first start this review by saying 9th Evolution is a reviewers wet dream. Unlike 99.9% of bands and labels out there that just simply "don't get it" 9th Evolution understand the meaning of respect. I hope all artists and labels reading this take note.
It is very frustrating when a reviewer like myself, has to hire a
detective, just to find out more information about a band, because the
band or label did not bother to send it to us, or even make that
information available on their Facebook pages or websites. This is not
only a huge waste of the reviewer's time to have to scour the Internet,
but also for potential fans looking to find out more about you. You
don't mess with your waiter before they bring your food, so don't piss
off or frustrate the reviewer before they review your record. The reason
it is called the music business, is because it is in fact, still a
business. It is true that most of us musicians and labels are basically
making diddly squat these days, but that should not excuse nor encourage
unprofessional behavior. 9th Evolution understands all of this. By
sending us a full digital press kit along with the music, we can easily
access any bio's, artwork, press releases, etc along with the music.
So,
all that being said, I'm going to conclude my off topic rant with what I
consider to be the perfect digital press kit. Music (MP3's, files
clearly marked with band or artist name,name of song, mix names if there
are mixes on every track). Press kit - (Full bio, press release or one
sheet and cover art). Most important, all of this should be neatly
included in a zip or RAR file, so when we, the reviewers, unzip the
file, we will find everything we need to do our jobs- MP3's, cover
artwork, bio, press release, etc. Please DO NOT send it separately, 9
times out of 10, we will never see it, it will get lost in the shuffle
of thousands of records that we receive. So once again, kudos to 9th
Evolution for being so incredibly prepared, professional and respectful. Now
on to the review...Out of St.Petersburg,Florida comes three brilliant
musicians, Nicholas Whitfield,his wife Jennifer Whitfield and Shaun
Baily who are also know as 9th Evolution. Nicholas is
the fearless leader and main creative force behind 9th Evolution. Hold
tight my friends we are about to embark on a journey not just of sight
and sound, but of mind. 9th Evolution released two albums, "The Life
Atomic" in 2010 and Retro Americana in 2012, both albums are deeply
personal for Nicholas. I
never thought I'd ever hear that "fresh from the can" sound again. You
know the sound of freshness escaping from being pent up inside a tin
can? A sound that your cat or dog knows well, that has them running
towards the sound, knowing something good is waiting for them. Well my
friends, that pretty much sums up the sound of 9th Evolution. If Gary Numan & Tubeway Army was to make a project with Nine Inch Nails,
this is probably what it might sound like. 9th Evolution even admit
that both of these classic artists are one of their many diverse
influences. The 80's come alive again, right from the onset of the album
with the title track 9E INC. Nicholas Whitfield's vocals have that post
punk, pre new wave, rare quality that you just won't find in many bands
these days. It is somewhere between Gary Numan and Trent Reznor, but topped off with a nice dose of good ole classic punk rock. What
is incredibly clever, is how they are able to tow the line between
harsh EBM and 80's new wave, while playfully flirting with other genres
like classic rock. I'm still in awe of how they can go from a harsh EBM
sound to old school new wave in the same track! It's like the feeling
of waking up on Christmas morning on every song. So fresh and exciting,
you never know where the music is going to take the listener. I can
honestly say, that I have not ever heard anything like this before.
Sure, many bands have tried to mix styles, but 9th Evolution seems to
corner the market on this impressive stew of eclectic perfection."We are a product of our influences and environment and goddamn proud of it!". 9th
Evolution's music is thought provoking and wildly entertaining. This
powerful trio brings a unique and invigorating perspective to an
otherwise lifeless and predictable, struggling music scene. Why the
majors have not snatched up these future rock stars yet, just goes to
prove that true talent continues to go unnoticed, while you can always
count on a steady stream of dull and soulless crap to invade your ear
canal. The
biggest treat is that in one thirteen track album, we get so many
pleasant and delicious surprises. It's like visiting an amusement park
that is so vast that although you spent all day there, you could go back
tomorrow and there would still be tons more to see and do. You
experience something new on every listen. Now that's great art! 9th Evolution has a strong message behind their music "9th
Evolution is a commentary on our modern world, and a clarion call for
change. They speak intelligently about social issues, without losing
their audience. The music speaks for itself, and it is a voice which we
cannot ignore." 9th
Evolution explains their music as a journey and that is exactly what it
is. A roller coaster ride of unexpected twists and turns and the thrill
of not knowing what may be coming next, but will keep you coming back
for more. 9E INC is my first taste of 9th Evolution , but if 9E INC is
actually any indication of what their first two albums will sound like,
then sign me up right now. Whether
you are a fan of EBM, industrial, goth,classic rock, hard rock, new
wave, hardcore punk, hard rock,80's or alternative, 9th Evolution has
something that will surely appeal to you. I don't say this about many
bands, but I think 9th Evolution would be incredible to see live. 9th Evolution has that special quality that makes you an instant fan and leaves you craving for more.
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OMD- METROLAND
OMD are back and Grave Concerns your home for dark music news & reviews has the exclusive first!
Much like Depeche Mode, OMD (Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys) started their incredible musical journey 33 years ago in 1980 with
their debut album Messages. Now in 2013, they are back, fresher and
hotter than ever with a fantastic new single called Metroland and a
forthcoming album called English Electric, which will be released on
April 8th. The new, seven track single Metroland, will be released on
March 25th.
Artist: Artist: OMD CD Title: Metroland (single) Label: BMG Rights Management Genre: synthpop/electronic
OMD are back and Grave Concerns your home for dark music news & reviews has the exclusive first!
Much like Depeche Mode,
OMD (Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys) started their incredible
musical journey 33 years ago in 1980 with their debut album Messages.
Now in 2013, they are back, fresher and hotter than ever with a
fantastic new single called Metroland and a forthcoming album called
English Electric, which will be released on April 8th. The new, seven
track single Metroland, will be released on March 25th. Three years ago in 2010, OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark)
made their triumphant return to the music world with History of Modern.
It had been fourteen years since their last album Universal, in 1996.
History of Modern though contemporary, still carried that strong hint of
their classic retro sound, that not only proved that the 80's were
back, but that there was still a huge and growing market for that sound.
"It's bloody hard to make new music 35 years after you've started," McCluskey says.
"We're fortunate that we have a recognizable style. We have a sound
palette that is our own. We would be foolish to abandon that. But how do
you actually do that without sounding like a pastiche of yourselves?
Trying to sound like OMD but also be contemporary and aware of modern
sounds and production techniques is the balancing act." Their
new single Metroland does not disappoint. In fact, it is probably one
of the best records that OMD have done in a long time. Metroland is a
super charged dance floor stormer, that is guaranteed to wake the dead
that haunt nightclubs in the age of iPhones and texting. Yes folks, it's
that good that you will want to stop texting and start dancing, or at
the very least, you are going to want to tweet about it. Metroland
is a one way ticket back to everything that made the 80's synthpop
sound so great. It is pure analogue heaven, with catchy vocals, and a
strong memorable melody that you just won't be able to get out of your
head. You will want to sing along. Paul and Andy are on top of their
game. Paul's vocal delivery is just as powerful and slick as ever.
Delicious bubbling synths dance atop a punchy and energetic bass line,
while an angelic choir sets the dramatic tone. A deep and hardy, four on
the floor kick that you can feel in your chest, gets your blood
pumping. You'd swear that Erasure, Depeche Mode & Yaz(oo)'s Vince Clark was sharing the programing honors, as it felt like Alison Moyet or Andy Bell
would start belting out a tune at any moment . Metroland sounds like it
came straight out of the 80's, yet blends in perfectly with today's
contemporary music scene. I
can't say enough about how incredible this single is. If Metroland is
any indication of things to come, then their soon to be released album
English Electric, is going to be amazing! Let's
talk about some of the mixes. When the original mix is so good, you'd
only hope that the mixes would be too. I was so excited to see that the
UK's Manhattan Clique is on board. Manhattan Clique
always does such an incredible job remixing 80's artists. Manhattan
Clique kept the overall integrity of the original, but pumped it up for
today's club audience without missing a single beat. Really fantastic.
Manhattan Clique transformed this masterpiece into a bouncy, 90's styled
piano house anthem, while the retro style of the original shines
brilliantly through. The Roger Erickson Remix takes the
track into a darker, more edgier direction, by dropping out the hard
driving dance element and replacing it with an almost industrial
composition. Complete with clanging metallic sounding high hats, it
leads into a tasty synthpop break to build suspense on the dance floor.
This mix will be perfect for darker audiences. The Jonteknik
Remix, has an 80's freestyle beat that slows down this dance anthem
into a more moodier affair. Add a snare drum that is once again
reminiscent of Yaz(oo), and things really start to get heated up. This could easily have been mistaken as a Vince Clarke production for Erasure
or Yaz(oo) if it weren't for Paul's unmistakable vocals. The
Appropriately remixed by Metroland mix, sounds like a combination of
early Depeche Mode (Vince Clarke) and Camouflage The Great Commandment. Unlike
most singles, that have mixes that can make your skin crawl at how bad
and out of place they are, every mix of Metroland is just utterly
brilliant. To give your feet a break, there is a dark and gloomy track
called the Great White Silence that once again, pays homage to the
dramatic ballad's that Vince Clarke is also famous for. Vince Clarke are you listening to this? No more experimental electronica crap with Erasure.
If you would go back to what you do best, your classic "retro" sound,
that would be an incredible comeback for the watered down Erasure we
have had to endure for the past several albums. You are wasting both
yours and Andy's talents with that tired nonsense. OMD has the right
idea, get back to basics. It's time. Metroland is truly spectacular! I am once again in LOVE! The English Electric Boxset contains.. Limited Edition collectors tin with embossed logo - CD / DVD / Demo CD in 7" gatefold card fold out - 7" single on colour vinyl with exclusive B-side - 16 page 7" booklet (including lyrics and exclusive photos) - 2 x artwork prints (canvass paper) - 2 x photo prints (photo paper) - Certificate of authenticity signed by band (- 2 metal pin badges - pre orders only) The CD Boxset contains CDX - Limited Edition Media book - Inner (artwork behind CD trays) - 8 page Booklet - CD/DVD
Listen to a sample of the full OMD- Metroland single
Watch the official animated video for OMD- Metroland
LOOKING FOR YOUR DARK MUSIC FIX? COME CHECK OUT YOUR NEW HOME FOR THE LATEST DARK MUSIC NEWS & REVIEWS...GRAVE CONCERNS www.graveconcernsezine.com
TERRA:CIDE- Doom of Decadence
This is
the dawn of the post apocalyptic music scene, it's like the EBM world's
answer to new wave. In a sea of carbon copy soundalikes and trust me
there are tons, how do you find that special band that manages to stick out in the crowd?
Artist: TERRA:CIDE CD Title: Doom of Decadence Label: Future Fame Genre: EBM/.harsh/aggrotech/dark electro
If
you were one of the people who thought that the world was going to end
in an explosion of hellfire and brimstone with the ultimate judgement of
the rapture last year, then you are probably just like me, pissed as
hell. You get your hopes up for a fiery end and then ..nothing. So what
is a frustrated musician to do?
With the underlying threat of our impending doom, it is no wonder that bands like Vault-113 and TERRORTEK X
create dark music that carries a message like "it's time to pay for
what we have done". Which pretty much says that we created this mess and
now we've got to deal with it. Angst and anger driven songs set to a
dark and pounding techno beat can pretty much describe a lot of the
bands coming out of the harsh EBM world these days. Let's face it,
things pretty much suck right now more than ever and we are mad as hell.
We might as well express ourselves creatively and let our freak flags
fly, instead of shooting up a movie theater during a revival of The
Sound of Music. But c'mon, don't say they wouldn't have deserved
it...but I digress...
This
is the dawn of the post apocolyptic music scene, it's like the EBM
world's answer to new wave. In a sea of carbon copy soundalikes and
trust me there are tons, how do you find that special band that manages
to stick out in the crowd? It is important to note that there are not
many fresh, new or exciting ideas out there, or at least from what I
have heard, but some are much better than others. I am happy to say that
the Finnish-German collaboration TERRA:CIDE is one of the good ones.
TERRA:CIDE
isn't something new or something that you haven't heard, but they do
give a fresher, more polished perspective on things. German producer
Johannes Scherer, (a.k.a Hannibal Terravault) from the successful
apocalyptic project Vault-113, has enjoyed success with
his debut album "Leichenfeier (also signed with Future Fame). Johannes
teamed up with Finnish artist Miko Cellhavoc, who also has had success
with his projects (Cellhavoc and Hydrocyanic) to create the new project TERRA:CIDE. Not to be confused with heavy metal act Terracide. Sadly,
as you read this TERRA:CIDE is no more. They disbanded long before
their recent debut album Doom of Decadence. That just goes to prove the
short lifespan of bands in this business. So why review a project that
is long dead? Well, as I was researching TERRA:CIDE "Doom of Decadence" I
was impressed with what I heard. I already know that Johannes is a
great musician and had not heard of Miko before, but was willing to give
it a try, despite the fact that they had already called it quits. I'm
really glad that I did. Even though the project is now defunct, both
musicians Johannes and Miko are alive and kicking and making music, so
that's good enough for me. Besides, the album just came out last month
and I was just given the record to review the other day, so it's all
good. The one downside, is that it technically is only three songs and
seven mixes, so it's a bit hard to formulate a full opinion just based
on that. What is really impressive, is when a band can give you the
experience of a full length release in only three songs. That is just
what TERRA:CIDE has done with Doom of Decadence .
Miko's harsh but
intelligible vocals are a breath of fresh air when compared to the
overly processed vocals in many harsh EBM acts. Why take the time to
write cool , deep lyrics if all you hear is Charlie Brown "whomp whomp"
gibberish? Most of the remixes are dull and don't leave much to be
desired. However, there are a few shining moments on the remix front. Cease2Xist's remix of God´s Creation is a powerhouse club stomper that will get bodies writhing on the dance floor. Vault-113's remix of Psychonauticx has more punch than the original version making it much more appealing. To sum up, TERRA:CIDE
"Doom of Decadence" is three post apocalyptic harsh EBM tracks and
seven remixes that bounce between a harder edged dark electro and a more
club oriented trancy techno style. If you are a fan of post apocalyptic
harsh EBM or dark electro industrial, then you should definitely make
Doom of Decadence on your list of records to purchase.
