Anthropile: Take. [12 Ton
Productions]
Never do I shun experimentation, but sometimes
there's a thin line between musical exploration, noise, and just plain
craziness. Anthropile walks the line through all of the above. While there
are more than a few catchy pieces to this aggro-industro-noiso-gonzo
album, I don't think it could pass as a fully listenable album without
getting a facelift. Some additional production values and perhaps some
more intuitive intervention would aid the disc somewhat. Noise-addicts
will like the harsh, speedy guitar and effects, and the armada of layered
samples. This album is definitely interesting and worth a listen.
Apocrypho:
Spiritual Cannibal [ADSR Musicwerks]
Spiritual
Cannibal is a paradox of itself. While it contains fragmentations of
clever effects manipulation and sound usage, it also seems rather
elementary in spots as well. The album is a mixed bag of dancey electro /
EBM and successful experimentation, making for an original if not complex
release. While it may not appear revolutionary or vital on the surface
scan, have another listen. You'll hear more and more and I think a lot of
people will come to appreciate this band in the future. I'm looking
forward to what they do next.
Audio
Paradox: The Iniquity of Time [Flaming Fish]
I was
pleasantly surprised by Audio Paradox. It seems they have some talent
worth sharing, vocals worth hearing, and an album worth buying. Straight
post-industrial rhythms and synth-style are used refreshingly with
excellently executed programming, intelligent lyrics, and favorable
melodic qualities. Guitars are used as well for the crossover fanatics,
but not in great amounts to warrant offense to the electro-purists. For
fans of neo-industrial music who like their "music" aspects
intact and going in a progressive direction. Highly recommended.
Bunker
Soldier: Innuendo [Neo Cultural Front]
Wow, Bunker
Soldier was an unexpected find. They seemingly popped from nowhere to kick
some ass. Admittedly, some clichés are employed here and there, but
are used in a successful mix of post-industrial ass-kicking melodies and
fusions of various styles. Not that all of the tracks are in your face and
harsh, they're not... it's actually a good balance of listenable music and
dance tunes. The keyboard and synth work is admirably well done, and
clings to an old-school train of thought. Overall this is an incredible
release if you overlook the garage-style production, which isn't really
too much of a detraction to begin with. Recommended.
Clan of Xymox: Consolation
[Metropolis]
Although I will admit that I wasn't very fond
of the full length Creatures, "Consolation" really is the
stand-out track on that album. This single contains the album version and
a radio edit of "Consolation," another album track "Jasmine
& Rose" and "Reason," a non-album, synth-pop flavored
song. These tracks represent all of the things that are good about
gothic-rock, and listening to Clan of Xymox in the scale of a single isn't
as bad as listening to an entire album. The tracks seem more diverse and
less monotonous within a span of only four tracks and twenty minutes.
Simply said, if you like this single you will like the album because the
stylistic approach doesn't vary heavily, making it hard to truly dislike,
but repetitive enough to get annoying when taken in heavier doses.
Consolidated: Tikkun-Survivor Demos
[Orchard Records]
Since the inception of Consolidated in
1989, the band has transcended any specific category of music. They have
successfully melded and/or touched on hip-hop, jazz, techno, industrial,
funk, noise, blues, drum n' bass, dub, and rock. Think it's a weird mix? I
certainly do, and it is very unusual to find such a versatile band putting
all of their varying styles into one basket. Strangely this album melds
all of these different faces of Consolidated successfully onto one album
and each track is different from the last, making Tikkun-Survivor a
refreshing album that's not likely to make you bored at any point. I don't
believe there is a weak song on the entire album. Highly recommended.
Covenant: United States of Mind
[Metropolis]
Wow. Alongside Apoptygma Berzerk's Welcome to
Earth, United States of Mind is one of the best things Metropolis has put
out recently. Kudos. Covenant's unique approach to varied synth styles of
music has reached a point of near perfection. Ranging from synth-pop and
Kraftwerkian tunes to more modern likenesses of VNV Nation and Front 242,
there is little room for fault. Every track is infectious and outstanding;
in fact I couldn't pick a favorite track because I can't stop listening to
the CD from beginning to end! The production is top-notch, which matters a
lot when you want to blast it at full volume. This is an album not to be
missed, and comes with our highest recommendation.
Culture Kultur: Reflex [Out Of Line
/ Cleopatra]
As they blend the strengths of industrial, EBM
and techno around a synth-pop sensibility, CK create a danceable and
smoothly listenable hybrid with just enough aggression to give it an edgy
feel. The vocals are reminiscent of Front 242 in a couple tracks and I see
some mainstream electronica influence involved, but not enough to warrant
any offense, especially since the tracks contrast themselves so widely in
genre appeal. The band has enough spunk and personality to keep in good
standing on their own, challenging more generic popular acts with just
enough seasoning of variety and underground flavor... but even if they
lack a revolutionary ambition, Culure Kulture have created an album that
is almost impossible to dislike. Accurately compared to Nitzer Ebb and The
Crystal Method, CK have a lot to offer to fans of the previously mentioned
genres.
Holger
Czukay: La Luna [Tone Casualties]
If you can imagine a
1-track, 47 minute CD of droning, spacey monotony with a down-tempo
pulsating beat, you don't need to spend money on this album. Supposedly a
tribute/ceremony to the moon through electronic music, it was recorded
live in the artist's studio, and the apparent lack of variation throughout
the 47 minute time span make it seem rather uncreative and contradictorily
non-spontaneous. The short vocal intrusion doesn't help much. To be fair,
the album successfully creates a trance-like state ideal for chilling out
or maybe it could be a soundtrack for dying slowly. The trance it induces
is that of lethargic sleepiness. I recommend this disc to hopeless
insomniacs everywhere and Jack Kevorkian.
Dead C Monkeys: Profits vs.
Prophets [Corporate Greed]
If you can picture the
conglomeration of Korn, Limp Bizkit, Cypress Hill, Rage Against the
Machine, and even a little Die Warzau, you're already getting a good (if
slightly blurry) picture of Dead C Monkeys. Their production quality is
quite good, and the programming shows far more than just a DIY band. In
today's musical climate, I believe a band like this has a good shot. The
crossing of styles and genre bending is very interesting on Profits Vs.
Prophets, and hell... even I liked it which says a lot since normally I
tend to shy away from albums of this sort. Recommended for fans of the
above-mentioned bands.
Delerium: Reflections Vol. I &
Reflections Vol. II [Dossier]
Capitalizing on the recent
success of Delerium and anticipating the next full-length release, Dossier
have re-released some of the most outstanding tracks from the back catalog
in hopes of generating interest in the relatively modest and minimalist
beginnings of Front Line Assembly's ethereal twin. The slight flaw here is
that Cleopatra has already licensed Delerium's older material and have
re-released the full albums previously. Now they're all available, and if
you want to try before you buy, this is a good alternative. At a mid-price
level, it's well worth the price to get a sampling of Delerium's past...
but even spicier for the die-hard fans - bonus tracks. Each volume comes
with a couple bonus tracks (previously unreleased...except of course by
Cleoptara's releases) to justify your urge to buy these discs. Since the
highlight tracks have been carefully selected, it is almost impossible to
find fault here. Highly recommended.
Delerium: Silence & Heaven's
Earth [Nettwerk]
Both singles are techno-enhanced with
heavy-duty remixes intended solely for the dancefloor. The popularity and
distinction in "Silence" comes from Sarah MacLaughlan's
involvement on vocals and notable remixes by the likes of Sascha &
Digweed, but the Matt Darey remixes of "Heaven's Earth" shadow
even those in comparison. While the techno/dance remixes do get stale
fast, I doubt these CDs were intended to be listened to straight through.
A necessity for any hard-core fan, you will be forced to pay import prices
from Europe or Australia to enjoy them. Recommended to anyone who has the
Karma album from Delerium, or for those who didn't like the album but
prefer the more technoid side of this type of "new age" music.
Diary of Dreams: Moments of Bloom
[Metropolis]
Diary of Dreams isn't a far cry form Clan of
Xymox. In fact I think they're a little too similar for my taste. Needless
to say, if you like one you'll like the other, and if you're into the
stereotypical gothload such as Switchblade Symphony's Serpentine Gallery,
you certainly will not be disappointed. I think Moments of Bloom is hard
to dislike, but I don't see it as a permanent resident in any CD players
just yet either. Perhaps a little experimentation and line-crossing is
necessary for this band to really stand out, but until they do you'll have
Moments of Bloom on hand for the soundtrack to your next barbeque.
Donnamatrix: Cyberia [DMX]
Blurring the lines between metal, hard-rock and industrial,
Donnamatrix fuses their own form of crossover music. Gritty and hard,
caustic and cool. The female vocals are a nice touch and are done well
with just the right amount of aggressiveness without screeching. I was
surprised with the production quality of this independently released disc
as well. Similar to Electric Hellfire Club and even (in trace amounts)
Contagion.
Dream Into Dust: The World We Have
Lost [Chthonic Streams]
Tragically indefinable for "critics"
such as myself, Dream Into Dust stands on a pillar of its own design - but
I'll give it a shot anyway. With the unlikely merging of gothic-rock drama
and emotionally destructive noise, Dream keeps an interesting edge, this
time more elaborately enamored and refined than the No Man's Land EP.
Never allowing a boring moment, The World We Have Lost sounds like
something new every time I listen to it. The sounds and atmospheric
manipulations are good mood-setters because a different interpretation
(even if always on the darker side) seems to emerge. Dream Into Dust also
appears on the incredible On the Brink of Infinity compilation from
Chthonic Streams.
Enigma: The Screen Behind the
Mirror [Virgin]
Enchanting and beautiful as always, Enigma
resurface with this highly anticipated album. One will note that it's not
far removed from its predecessors style-wise, yet one will also notice
more complexity and a shift in genre integration. That is to say that you
won't hear the same as you heard on Enigma's last album, rather you will
notice a maturing spirit to the band that perhaps was rushed or even
pushed to quickly for this release. I say that because the stand-out
tracks are more subdued than usual. Although brilliant, there is nothing
that will spark and set your ears aflame if you're looking for some of the
"hits" you're accustomed to from this band. But you will find
the diverse musical styles, wonderful female vocalization, and ethereal
sound collages. Unfortunately there are some drawbacks too, such as
predictable, almost cheesy lyrics, some parts of the album that sound like
Kenny G participated, and the artwork seems pretty half-assed compared to
their earlier CDs too. All in all it's a fine album, it just seems a
little rushed or haphazard. Fans of earlier work will surely appreciate
it, as well as fans of neo-Delerium.
Eye:
Politics Can Be Fun Volume I [Blatant Propaganda]
Aptly
titled, the socially-conscious Eye is a Blatant Propaganda production,
known for fronting political awareness and trying to inspire revolutionary
solutions to governmental problems. While their intent is noble on paper,
it doesn't translate as well to album form. There are some definite
positive attributes to this fully electro band, but nothing above the
level of novice that would be considered as revolutionary in the musical
world. Clearly, having a band is a way of voicing your opinion... but for
your message to travel properly it has to appeal to people as well. This
CD is not necessarily a great musical effort, but it makes powerful social
statements in the lyrics that are intended only to help disseminate truth
about the not-so-scrupulous political world. I recommend buying it if only
to help promote a good ideal.
The
Girl Pool: The Girl Pool [self-released]
Groan. I
can't tell if these guys are trying to be Boy George or just the weakest
wanna-be synth-poppers ever. Maybe they're going for both, in which case
they're successful. The album lacks in vocal variation and individuality,
and is dependent on a weak, watered-down synth / live instrument hybrid of
music that barely carries itself. It seems that The Girl Pool have much to
toil over before they get a label interested in their work. Better luck
next time boys, this one's just not cutting it.
Halo_Gen: Halo_Gen [Metropolis /
Pendragon]
This is a dark ambient release; spacey and cold,
electronic and precise, organic and alive... all at the same time.
Drifting from the norms of most ambient/techno, you get the impression
that this is one of the rare discs that doesn't involve the use of a cheap
Casio, 9-volt batteries and an elementary-level education. Flowing with
strikingly fresh sounds and soothing melodies, Halo_Gen is recommended to
anyone who likes Haujobb's trance-inducing instrumentals or Sephiroth's
ingenious mood-inducing capabilities.
Haloblack: Raw Tension [Fifth
Column]
Sometimes we find genius when we're not looking for
it. Raw Tension is a case like this, blowing away all expectations and
introducing a hard electro / industrial / rock style that should be met
well by fans of Ministry, 29 Died, Sister Machine Gun and even Circle of
Dust. Prepare to hear experimentation that leads to innovative results,
noise frequencies that become songs in themselves, and get this - it's all
mixed with purposeful song structure that seems almost produced to the
point of perfection! Raw Tension is available from mp3.com, and you can
get more information at www.haloblack.com. I highly recommend it for the
sake of anyone who needs to whet their taste with something drastically
new and undeniably cool.
Hocico: Cursed Land [Out Of Line]
Hocico is the kind of band that perfectly meld so many distinct
styles that they create a new entity entirely. Mysterious keyboards and
synthetic sounds flow around distorted vocals that don't seem so typical,
with constantly changing percussion which keeps the mix even more
interesting. It also gives Cursed Land an attention-keeping property not
found in many electronic music releases lately. Harsh and aggressive with
an unmistakeable European sound, Hocico lash out with speed and intensity
to the point of making Leæther Strip look like Saturday Morning
Cartoons. I don't speak sacrilege like this often, so trust me when I tell
you that Hocico is worth an enthusiastic listen.
Hyperdriver: Antichrist Revs
[Beergut]
This band, adequately named according to their
brand of electro, drives a hyper-speed blend of tech-noise together with a
very welcomed sense of humor. The BPMs will give you a nose bleed if the
harsh, volatile insanity of the music doesn't do it first. There is a
clever musical integration on Antichrist Revs that I find particularly
alluring despite a mostly technoid feel. At times it becomes harsh enough
to lose any reminder that it's digitally produced, so kudos to Hyperdriver
if they can get a mosh pit started at a rave.
In The Nursery: Groundloop [ITN
Corp.]
Fucking amazing. ITN return, breaking all
expectations and offering yet another masterpiece. The Humberstones boldly
proclaim this album as "music to make movies to," and rightly
so. Whereas their optical music series has been based on the concept of
making "soundtracks" for films, Groundloop is powerful enough to
elicit its own screenplay in the minds of astute listeners. The percussive
element is accentuated on this album, giving a bold force to the
orchestrated music and a desirable contrast to the smooth female vocals
and muted electronics. It seems to be designed with maniacally masterful
precision, and a desire to have a universal piece of work that could at
any given point relate to any film in existence. Therefore, it goes
without saying that Groundloop could relate to any mood as well.
Enthusiastically recommended.
In The Nursery: Exhibit [ITN Corp.]
This 15 track, 73 minute compilation is specifically intended to
spread a sampling of ITN's back catalog to a South American market, but
the album was also released in Europe with a limited edition slipcase. It
begins with their earliest work in 1986 ("Timbre") and continues
through their middle period ("Sense") and finally on to some of
their newer and more elaborate works ("Poema") in 1998. ITN's
music crosses lines between the militarism of early industrial music and
orchestrated classical music, swaying in and out of percussive elements,
string/keyboard arrangements and vocal usage. This album is a flawless
representation of In The Nursery, a perfect portfolio of some the band's
most amazing works through 14 years of albums. The music is as striking
and attractive as the angelic cover artwork. In The Nursery are a band
that I always highly recommend.
Infrastructure: The Wasteland
[Demo]
Wow. From Chelmsford, Massachussetts. Fuckin'
awesome. We need more underground bands from unlikely places like this in
the US... it's nice to see people out there are still making
electro-industrial and are trying to be innovative about it. On top of
everything, Infrastructure consists of a single female (Stacia Tucker),
which in itself deserves some respect. Besides the fact that I'm
personally fond of female vocals over electro precision, the conflicting
fem vox and industrial beats keep an interesting musical tension going
that I've always been partial to. My favorite track is "Solitude."
Recommended, check her out.
Interface: The Artemis Complex
[self-released]
Surprising for a solo-release. This
underground NY act definitely has some spunk in their junk and are very
ripe for the picking. Unfortunately I fear the market for this type of
non-pop synthy electro is dwindling quickly. The tracks are catchy, the
music is shockingly well done, and the musical intuition is there... the
only thing I thought could use work were the vocals, but hey... this is
damn good for a self-release. I look forward to hearing more.
Ionic Vision: Homo Sovieticus
[DSBP]
Who can go wrong with a band that samples Porky Pig?
'Nuff said. Seriously though, this album got my attention in a good way.
The music is a mix of old and new styles of electro / industrial / EBM
(think early-mid career Front 242, The Klinik, Leæther Strip, etc.).
It is produced amazingly well for an independent band... especially since
this album is actually a collection of old, rare, and unreleased material.
Club-goers will enjoy the dancefloor kinetics and steady rhythms,
rivet-heads will enjoy the aggressive vocals, and anyone will appreciate
the twisted sense of humor and irony that thematically adheres to the
statement on the back of the insert: "compulsive tunes for every
nation and its propaganda." I'm anxious to see how far Ionic Vision
can push themselves, I think they will progress nicely.
Koji Asano Ensemble: Flow Augment
[Solstice]
Demonstrating experiments with live instruments
such as piano, violin, viola, cello, and contrabass, the Koji Asano
Ensemble creates stimulating and challenging orchestrated compositions
with a heavy asian influence. Flow Augment is original and engaging, but
not necessarily what you're used to as everyday "listening music."
Kevorkian Death Cycle: A + O (m)
[Metropolis]
On first listen I despised this CD, dismissing
it as random drivel as elementary as any novice industrial dance band, and
as cheesy as their band name. Upon forced post-listenings I began to
notice more and more that I liked. Still, it's not more original than an
upbeat Pulse-Legion/Evil's Toy-type disc, but it has its moments and
hooks. They do integrate trace elements of live instrumentation, which is
seemingly adventurous for them, but it should be since most of their
tracks are geared toward no-brainer club play. Nothing Earth-shattering
here, but still worth a listen... or two, or three.
Laibach: Laibach [NSK / Nika]
This is the fourth edition of the first official Laibach EP,
originally released on vinyl from SKUC-Ropot in Ljubljana, Slovenia,
Yugoslavia in 1985. For those used to Laibach's minimalistic early works
and the first Occupied Europe Tour, this album should sound familiar
stylistically. It's definitive of classic early industrial noise and
ambience, and is inspired politically like the motives in most Laibach
releases. They wind the album together in a darkly distorted European
fashion, and fill it with the political imagery and cynicism that only
Laibach does just right. Electronics are native to this album in a way
that will seem revolutionary to current fans of the industrial genre,
creating some strong pieces that will enlighten those who missed out the
first time around. For people who own previous versions of this album, you
can look forward to extensive new artwork, packaging, and lyric sheets.
Little
Miss. Conception: The Plate Glass Fallen Sky [self-released]
This album definitely wins the most Goth award of this issue, but
unfortunately the smartest part of this CD is the name of the band. The
cliché nonsense that is gothic-rock continues to live on with the
usual groaning moaning vocals, whiny and drab guitars, and elementary
percussion. Even considering such inventive songs as "Angel" and
"Cold," one can only imagine what the music sounds like...
especially if you've ever heard any other goth bands that just don't cut
it. Whip the handy dandy cross out of your velvet breast pocket and hope
that CD stays away from your CD player.
Logs in the Mainstream: Acaustic
[Corporate Greed]
Alternative/experimental math-rock fused
with electronic drums and programming... not something you'll see
everyday, and something I've definitely not received in a long time. This
disc is interesting to say the least, captivating right down to the clever
lyrics and amusing spots of college mentality. Ranging in similarities
from Primus to They Might Be Giants, Logs in the Mainstream offer up some
innovative tunes.
Lords of Acid: Expand Your Head
[Antler Subway]
Expand your what?! More sexual silliness and
sickness from the masters of distastefully fun music. Expand Your Head
sees the Lords pulling a familiar and not-so-unheard-of trick... remixing
to the point of no reason other than to bide time and make cash for their
next original release. If you're into remixes or if you are a hard-core
LOA fan you'll want this CD of course, but those in need of some Lords of
Acid history lessons will find this CD helpful because of the
career-spanning tracks that are revamped. Remixers include Critter, Luc
Van Acker, Chris Vrenna, God Lives Under Water, and Richie Hawtin. Ranging
from re-takes of the classic "I Sit on Acid" and "Rough Sex"
to "Crablouse" and a KMFDM remix of "Lover," anyone
will find something they like from areas of the back catalog. Besides the
remixes, LOA have generously included 3 brand-spankin' new booty calls ("Am
I sexy?," "As I Am," and "Who do You think You Are?")
which make the trip to the CD shop even more necessary.
Love Spirals Downwards: Temporal
[Projekt]
If you're not already familiar with this dreamy,
atmospheric band with lush female vocals, you should be. This collection
of past and present works spanning from 1992 - 99 is just the right
sampling to get to know them. Starting with newer material and steadily
reaching back into the band's history, you will sail through 13
beautifully soothing tracks, each with their own individuality, but most
with a frame of ethereal quality, a touch of melancholy and even a little
sprinkling of trip-hop flavor in various places. Highly recommended.
Mediæval Bæbes:
Undrentide [Nettwerk]
Featuring some of the same blood that
makes Miranda Sex Garden a superb and original band, new production by
Velvet Underground founder John Cale, and a more modern approach to their
theme and music, The Mediæval Bæbes emerge with this
innovative third album which combines anciently rooted songs and
compositions with a sprinkling of new-world influence. Within the tracks
are ambient fusions of acoustic elements (such as recorders, bells,
guitars, dulcimer, and even the hurdy gurdy), with Middle English, French,
German, and Italian poetry pieces beautifully vocalized by over ten
females. Just as the first two albums, "Salva Nos" and "Worldes
Blysse," "Undrentide" makes for a fresh and fascinating
listen, absolutely unparalleled in style.
Mentallo & The Fixer: Love Is
The Law [Metropolis Records]
This release has been geared
toward a more dense and heavy side of Mentallo, including more
industrial-style percussion and a new concept that severely contrasts the
previous progressive-rock-influenced album Algorythum. While some of the
spacey samples and hypnotic trance-like factors remain from previous
works, Mentallo evolves yet again into a new entity which may or may not
be for the last time, as the band has finally left its birthplace,
Metropolis, to pursue an identity as the more ethereal Shimri.
Nevertheless, this is a spectacular release, harnessing all of the
otherworldly intrigue we've come to expect from Mentallo, plus new aspects
of experimental percussion and sound elements not too distant from the
likes of early Skinny Puppy and Download. Some special guests appear on
Love Is as well. Michael Greene of Mainesthai contributes enigmatic vocals
to "Exit" while Robert Bustamante of Fektion Fekler / Moksha
adds programming to "Truth Be Told." This "final"
album comes highly recommended to any fan of M&TF and progressive
electronic music... it is an honorable closure for Mentallo and an
excellent nest of fire from which Shimri will arise.
Mira: Mira [Projekt]
Nothing
short of what you might expect from a release on Projekt, the 4-piece Mira
captures a new side of the ethereal genre, bending towards a dreamy,
sleepy "shoegazer" brand of progressive-rock. Ripe with
fascinating songs and incredible female vocalization care of Regina
Sosinski, Mira drifts along a line similar in respects to slower melodic
Belly material. This disc is both beautiful and enchanting, and comes
highly recommended.
Moksha:
A People Undone [ArtOfFact Records]
Moksha boldly
offers a healthy injection of music and songwriting into electronic music.
As they jump from the lethargy of gothic music and hard-edged grit of
industrial sounds to more upbeat variations of each, Moksha continue the
style of Fektion Fekler with experimental and introverted pieces created
over the span of a decade. They even incorporate an acoustic angle on the
mix, just when you think you might have a grasp on their modus operandi.
Not only do they have guts and originality, but they're insistent on their
artistic freedom. Taking the route of a relatively untapped keyboard and
synth style similar in ways to Mentallo & The Fixer, A People Undone
will appeal to those who like bands that are adventurous in their music,
and undaunted by genre pigeon-holes and simple classification. Moksha does
not challenge listeners, they enlighten them and offer something new,
something beautiful, and something forceful all at once.
Monstrum Sepsis: Neophite
[Paraminion Studios]
These guys aren't too bad... but they
seem to be more constructive with their instrumental pieces than their
vocalized work (which isn't very "vocal" at all). The music is
creative, but still follows a stream of influences and similarities
ranging from Skinny Puppy to the more recent Pain Station. They do pay
attention to details however, and this is as apparent in the music as it
is with their self-produced album art. Overall this is an interesting and
catchy release... definitely not bad at all for a novice release.
Hopefully these guys will progress steadily, because they are definitely
on a great track.
My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult:
Dirty Little Secrets [Rykodisc]
Everything you've come to
expect from the modern incarnation of the TKK. No surprises, just 18
tracks of funky, sexual, fun-stuff from the pimps of electronic music.
This is a far cry from their original days on WaxTrax! and closer to their
Sexplosion! Release, yet ironically they are mostly remixes of their older
material with eight exclusives mixed into the batch. Indistinguishable
from their original albums, these tracks seem to meld seamlessly with the
new pieces, ultimately painting a picture of what the Thrill Kill Kult is
today. Very poppy, very mainstream, yet still very fun.
Noxious
Emotion: Elements [ADSR]
Simply put, Noxious Emotion
is getting better with each release. If you thought Symbols was a great
milestone, take a listen to this. While the stylistic achievements overlap
slightly (see the artwork), you will notice that some tracks seem like
they were intended for the Symbols release, but have evolved to a higher
level of production and musical ingenuity. Elements is nothing short of
impressive; heavy, aggressive, intelligent, and clearly on the path to
even higher planes. Even the vocals have improved and seem to flow better
with the cascade of EBM beats and masterful basslines and keyboard work.
Highly recommended.
Pig: Disrupt Degrade and Devastate
[Blue Noise]
You can always tell a Pig song when you hear
it, always. That hasn't changed with DDD, and neither has the incredibly
distinct industrial-rock power that Pig is known for, especially after
Wrecked and Sinsation. Since KMFDM (now MDFMK) has disassembled and
degraded themselves, Pig fortunately remains to fill the hole that they've
left empty. While there are only two original tracks on this 6-song EP ("Disrupt
Degrade and Devastate" and "Flesh Fest"), it still offers
enough of a taste to leave you longing for the full-length Genuine
American Monster, which will be out in Japan by the time you read this.
DDD is only available as a Japanese import right now, but it's worth the
money. Other tracks include remixes of the above-mentioned, plus live
versions of "Everything" and "The Only Good One's a Dead
One."
Pig: The Swining / Red Raw &
Sore [Cleopatra]
Repressing Pig's deleted The Swining and
Red Raw & Sore was a great idea, relieving fans of paying high import
prices and the stress of mortgaging their homes to purchase the out of
print CDs on eBay. The albums are slightly edited to allow their
compression onto one disc, but the good news is that it includes extra
bonus versions of a couple songs. Fans of the musical style mentioned in
the above review will want to check this out as well, and fans will want
the Keith LeBlanc and KMFDM remixes, as well as the awesome remixes by
Pig.
Pulse Legion: One Thing
[Metropolis]
The weird thing about this
techno/electro/industrial-dance band is that they are so monotonous, so
cliché, and so uninspired that they are actually too catchy to
hate. While every track is almost the same as the last, they each seem to
have their own hook. It would be much better if the band were more
diverse, but I do see improvement from their older material. Don't buy it
if you're looking for something spectacularly entertaining, but if you're
already a fan of their older nonsense this should knock your socks off.
Rammstein: Live Aus Berlin [Motor /
Mercury]
Showcasing Rammstein's best live tracks (how hard
could it be with such a limited back-catalog?) this disc is basically a
waste of money unless you're a completist. The tracks are not much
different than their studio counterparts, and the CD doesn't include the
fiery special effects that the band uses onstage... so the only use I can
see for this album is for people who like Rammstein but don't wish to
spend cash on their other full-length material and singles. It's also good
for new fans who just like what they've heard on the radio or MTV and
don't want the filler tracks from the studio releases.
Regenerator: Debugged [Flaming
Fish]
Please pardon the undecided review. Debugged is good
but not great. There's something here that I can't put my finger on that
makes half of the tracks appealing half of them seem silly. I think the
mix and trade of female / male vox is a good idea, yet even those get
sappy and seem unnecessary at times. Some of the beats and keyboard work
is appealing and done well, but some of it seems almost novice, just like
the lyrics. Some of it seems slower than it should be in the wrong spots
and the song compositions don't always fit like they should. My review has
left this album hanging in a gray area, so I guess that's my real
interpretation of it...
Lorin Richards: ENKI
[self-released]
Along with his CD and press photo, Lorin
(formerly of Graven Image) included a god-damned novel explaining his
album and the mythos behind its concept. Fortunately I didn't read more
than the first couple paragraphs or I might have been dissuaded from
actually listening to the music, which would have been unfortunate because
it's very interesting and creative indeed. In fact I have no basis for
comparison on this one... truly Lorin has an artistic vision, but he's
more adept at putting it into sounds than words. ENKI drifts through an
indefinable void of trip-hop and electronic rock influence, with just a
touch of home-made novelty. For the most part the songs are written well,
even if a bit elementary in creation, and musically are soothing and
refreshing in ways. However, I do believe that this CD could have been
done better in areas, though Mr. Richards is on a healthy track toward
something very good.
Rob
Zombie: American Made Music to Strip By [Geffen]
Sporting
remixes by bands such as God Lives Under Water, Rammstein, Damage Twins,
and Charlie Clouser, Zombie's previous works have a new life breathed into
them. For the most part the new remixes tend to walk the line of
industrial and techno music, increasing the speed a couple notches and
accentuating the subtle influence already found in Zombie's tunes. The
crossover effect is powerful on this album too, most notably recognized in
Rammstein's "Black Leather Catsuit" mix of "Spookshow Baby"
which fuses the appeal of aggressive guitar with an industrial edge. I can
see why KMFDM hopped on for the previously released Nightcrawler Remixes;
they must have seen the same potential for Zombie music as is now being
recognized more fully.
Jean-Pierre Saccomani: The Four
Seasons [MCP Productions]
Beautifully crafted ambient
compositions are displayed in the context of a year, each piece of the
whole representing a different season. Thus, there are 4 epic tracks plus
an additional fifth which acts as a summary ballad. As implied by the
human / flora fusion on the cover, this CD is both classically influenced
and clearly has an obvious thematic intention. Overall this is a most
impressive work based upon classical sensibilities and modern production
through electronics. It should be regarded highly for it's musical worth;
the soothing properties of each track (or seasons I should say) accurately
portray the artist's concept and superbly exemplify the potentials of
electronic composition. Highly recommended.
The Saints of Eden: The Other Side
[Metech]
Hark, is that another crossover band I hear? Yes,
and this time it's 100% cool. If you like such bands as Sister Machine
gun, Girls Under Glass, Circle of Dust, Contagion or even KMFDM this will
suit your need for fast guitars, precise programming, distorted vox,
excellent keyboards and a heavy beat-driven chaos. This is another band
who has not only songwriting talent, but also keen abilities and mastery
of their craft as well... this is a band that knows their stuff. Highly
recommended.
Schizoid: Enough is Enough!!!
[D-Trash / Generation Fuck You]
This album is a living
breathing embodiment of every form of techno, noise, and electronic
experimentalist music... on crack. It's mixed into a cauldron of angst,
capped off with speedy schizophrenic rage and then left to simmer in a
writhing boil. It may send you into a Beavis-and-Butthead-esque fit of "Destroy!
Destroy!" but it is entertaining, even if it isn't "listening
music." Actually I don't know what it is to be honest, but the term "interesting"
comes affectionately to mind. There are samples and found-sounds
everywhere, so you'll hear something new each time you listen to it. Crazy
stuff, for sure!
Spahn Ranch: Anthology 1992 - 1994
[Cleopatra Records]
Collecting Spahn Ranch's first 3
releases, some rare tracks, and an unreleased song, "Anthology"
highlights the band's earlier works on a convenient 2-CD set. The raw,
industrial sound with less structure and distorted vocalization of the
early releases on disc 1 will hardly remind you of the more refined and
artistic Spahn Ranch that we know today, but they will remind you of the
rough-on-the-edges roots from which the band arose. Disc 2 comes closer to
the modern Spahn Ranch, but still remains harsh and aggressive. It kicks
off with "Breath and Taxes," the catchy track that also gave
rise to a video. This is where Athan Maroulis' vocals are stressed a bit
more and the music becomes more complex. Even though I'm not as fond of
SR's earlier works as their newer material, this album is pretty
representative of the band and what they stemmed from.
Stillstand: Nebel [Fusion Audio]
Stillstand is the slower, more ambient project of Martin Steinebach,
also known for his Monoid and Conscienta Peccati industrial-based
monikers. Nebel is an album that can have many different effects, mostly
relaxing and enjoyable, but also mysterious and awkward. The organic
nature of the electronic elements contradict themselves in a manner that
evokes dreamy wonder and introspection. The compositions are beautifully
rendered slices of what Steinebach refers to as "music for driving
through fog," which is the perfect description I suppose, coming from
the creator. Fans of Sephiroth's Cathedron and Controlled Bleeding's The
Poisoner should find this CD to be a welcomed addition to their
collection.
Tony Stoufer: One Swell Foop
[Absolute Obscurity]
Creative technoid soundscapes with more
ingenuity and cleverness than most techno CDs I receive. Void of vocals,
One Swell Foop is as intriguing as it is masterful in its musical stance.
It is both fun and aesthetically enticing without being in-your-face and
repetitive, and Stoufer's not afraid to get laid-back and chill. While
some spots get a little close to conservative chain-restaurant in-house
music, it can be forgiven for the aforementioned attributes.
Strategy: Intense [ArtOfFact]
Strategy, a member of Austria's Trylok, triumphs with this dark,
moody solo journey into blue realms of electro. Likenesses can be drawn to
Front 242, In Strict Confidence, Covenant and even some of the slower
melodic works of Wumpscut, but is certainly not a clone of any. Fans of
dark, aggressive synth mixed with EBM and industrial styled beats should
find it interesting, and there's some slower parts to keep the mix diverse
enough to make the disc very listenable all the way through. Highly
recommended to fans of Trylok and In Strict Confidence.
Terminal Choice: Venus [Out of
Line]
Okay, try to ignore the band photos on the inside
cover... the band doesn't sound as cheesy as they make themselves look. In
fact I was pretty impressed on how well done the CD was. It seems like an
album that should be getting a lot more attention than I've seen
concerning it. The vocals are distorted but melodically intact, melding
perfectly with the musical style and creating some infectious hooks and
choruses that are bound to stick in your head. The music itself is a mix
between electro and crossover guitar integrations, all done with precision
and specific intent. There are no mistakes here, the band knows music and
how to use it. While certain portions musically and lyrically may be
considered cliché, overall this is a disc that is recommended. My
favorite track is "Poisoned Love."
Thine Eyes: My Knobs Taste Funny
[Doppler Effect]
These guys are pretty off the wall. I
wasn't as impressed with this album as I was with their previous Christian
Sex Loops. It seems less inspired and more random. Albums like this just
fail to keep my attention too long, especially if meandering on without
seeming to have an intention or true feeling in the music. Experimentalism
would be great as an excuse, but it can only be taken so far. The good
points of this album are the healthy remixes by Mark Spybey, Scar Tissue,
and Pain Station.
Thou
Shalt Not: Thou Shalt Not [ADSR]
This is a remarkable
release, laden with synth-pop likenesses and progressively enchanting
compositions. Tinges of trip-hop are slight but apparent and overall the
mix is a steady and consistent attention-keeper. Relatively untreated
vocals fall anywhere between Depeche Mode, VNV Nation, and Red Flag and
attain some high moments in catchy melodies. The lyrics are well-written
and have a bittersweet nature for the most part, but the whole album is
not just sappy-synth-schtuff... there are plenty of interesting areas that
get groovy, aggressive, and even incorporate some interesting
sample-usage. Over all this is a very well-rounded release worthy of
attention.
Uranium
235: Cultural Minority [Mystic Music / Lightyear Ent.]
Hard-hitting industrial rock from NY. Recently signed, this band
displays potential for success and a commercial nature to their music.
They front a crossover style which Manson fans might find interesting.
Fans of Contagion, Hate Dept., Electric Hellfire Club, Circle of Dust and
Carbon Haze will also want to check this out, but be warned that U235 walk
the thin line between electronics and hard-rock / metal if you're not into
that style. Overall the album is likeable if not spectacular, but
certainly worthy of getting attention in particular circles.
Vampire
Nation: Wise-Ta-Nech (Pre-European Africa) [Hexagon / J-Bird Records]
Vampire Nation once again define their narrowly self-invented "coven-funk"
genre with this release. The album is an evolution for the band,
incorporating funky rhythms and seemingly jazz-influenced keyboards with a
strange quirkiness reminiscent of mid-career Cabaret Voltaire. My favorite
tracks, "Sailing Down Africa" and "The Possibility of
African History Verdict from Evidence" are diverse pieces, one being
a laid-back, mellow, trance-like piece, and the other being a more
percussive track similar to minimalist industrial, yet still holding tight
to the trance border. All of the tracks are woven together by dreamlike
keyboards and cosmic sound effects. And in case you're wondering, the
band's name has nothing to do with vampirism in the black-clad Bella
Lugosi sense. It actually refers to the plundering of a nation, another
form of "vampirism." While the only track directly related to
the theme by "lyrical" content is "The Nature of the Trade"
(it's mostly a sampled piece), I think the overall value of the album
strictly (but naturally) comes from the music itself.
V/A: Autum: The Zion Crystal &
Juin Star: The Shadow of the Phoenix [self-released]
I
disregard The Zion Crystal in favor of Juin Star, a.k.a. David Hartwell,
an incredible electronic musician out of NY that has enough talent to
create the next potential Subconscious Communications release. No shit.
These few tracks remind me so much of what Doubting Thomas (Skinny Puppy
members side-project) was getting at, and unfortunately never got to
continue. For an independent artist who drops his CDs off for consignment
at the local Rhino Records store, this is damn good and well worth the 5
bucks. If you want to obtain a copy, email me (InFaction@aol.com) and I'm
sure I could grab you one.
V/A: Blind Admiration [Seraph
Productions Ltd.]
I had the pleasure of listening to many
albums from this label. Unfortunately my space is limited, so I thought
I'd review the label sampler as an overview. It is a low-cost
cardboard-packaged album with 10 songs from Ashes, Jamii Szmazinski,
Colortone, Ennui, Paris by Night, Garden of Dreams, Angelhood,
Rachael's.Surrender, Dalet-Yod, and With Sirens Entranced. It is also
furnished with a multimedia portion for use on your computer, a convenient
introduction to the incredible bands. Straying from any specific genre
preference, Seraph seems to stress art and artistic freedom over
marketing, leaving the band styles to differ heavily between progressive,
ambient and mood music to tribal, gothic, and experimental platforms. All
of the tracks are as individual as the artists who created them. "Blind
Admiration" comes highly recommended to people with open minds and a
varied taste for exceptional music.
V/A: Gala Masala [Orange Entropy]
This 16 track compilation contains clones of every "alternative"
band from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Smashing Pumpkins and Blind Melon to Mr.
Bungle, Beck, and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. Most of it's good, some of
it sounds like it was recorded on a Radio Shack tape recorder in a bathtub
in the basement under a dirty mattress. Bands included are: Godboy,
Plastic Ash, Elevenland, The Great Glass Elevator, the Bubble, Subatomic
Billiards, Ben, Fiber, and Shower.
V/A: Richie Hawtin: Decks, EFX, &
909 [Mute]
Decks, EFX, & 909 is the culmination of
Richie Hawtin (A.K.A. Plastikman, Fuse, Cybersonik, and Circuit Breaker)
and over 20 other artists including Ratio, Richard Harvey, Thor, Quadrant,
and Nitzer Ebb only to name a few. Spanning a diverse range of
contributors in 38 tracks and over 60 minutes, the album seems to be one
gigantic dance track that evolves and changes over time and interpretation
like a game of "Operator." The result is a hypnotic and
infectious album, taking a singular concept and manipulating it in so many
ways and by so many people that it would seem impossible not to find it
interesting. The only real stray from the "rave" feel of the
album is Nitzer Ebb, who add a quasi-industrial effect for two brief
minutes. Naturally, Richie himself produces the most smooth and
consistently cool dance sections on the disc, but my favorite piece is the
final track, produced by Rhythm & Sound.
V/A: The Infinity Paradox [Fusion
Audio Recordings]
The Infinity Paradox showcases new blood
in ambient and experimental electronic music with something of import to
display. Ranging in sub-genres and appeal, fans from camps around Aphex
Twin and Squarepusher to Cabaret Voltaire and Download will find this CD
interesting. Everything here was very selectively chosen and it shows in
the quality throughout all 15 tracks. My favorite track is "Nazarene"
by MRSA-16. Recommended as a great sampler for excellent underground
ambient and experimental music.
V/A: Kinetic Instinct [DSBP]
DSBP's latest 18-track "elektro-synthpop" compilation is a
generous offering indeed, supporting indie and underground acts that
definitely deserve a listen. Kinetic Instinct entertains a theme of
electronic music filled with emotion and fresh sounds. This is the best
way to find out what's out there in the way of great new
electronic/synth-based music, and as always DSBP doesn't ask for much in
the way of greenbacks. I heavily recommend it on many levels. Bands
included are Biopsy, System Der Dinge, Pivot Clowj, Noxious Emotion,
Captive Audience, Any Questions, Dead Jump and Diverje to name only a few!
V/A:
On the Brink of Infinity [Chthonic Streams]
This
compilation is superb not only in it's musical aspect, but in its design,
conception, and continuity as well. The concept is based on the music for
this release though, instead of vice-versa. It seems to have an ominous
overtone, infinitely apocalyptic and sorrowful, weaved into the creation
of each piece. One need only to look at the beautifully feigned antiquity
of the brown packaging and the Albrecht Durer print on the cover for a
hint at the types of dark-folk, baroque, renaissance-esque, and unorthodox
"gothic" music to be found within. Every track is a beautifully
rendered and well-chosen representation of the styles of music present.
Included on this album are works by Howden / Wakeford, Empyrium, Arcane
Art (feat. Lord Vindictus), Anima In Flamme, Funerary Call, Nothus Filius
Mortis, Kerovnian, Gruntsplatter, 15 Delights of Dionysius, 4th Sign of
the Apocalypse, Dream Into Dust, and Backworld. The best of these amazing
tracks for me are "Die Schwane Im Schilf" by Empyrium and "Illumination"
by Arcane Art.
V/A: Radiant Decay: A Tribute to
Nine Inch Nails [Vitamin]
First off, I don't understand the
point of tribute albums to bands that are still in commission. Second, I
don't know why tribute albums like this always have second rate, unknown,
same-genre bands covering well-established bands, thus bringing
well-produced material to an undesirable level. Often these albums become
an embarrassment in comparison to the original, and such is the case here.
Pseudo-industrial garage bands covering Nine Inch Nails is the last thing
anyone needs if looking for something new or different. My advice is this:
if you like Nine Inch Nails and you already have the original versions of
the tracks on this album, steer clear of Radiant Decay. Trust me, the
originals are better... but granted there are a couple rare exceptions
here as always. A couple of the better covers here are "Sanctified"
and "Last."
V/A: Saints & Sorcerers Volume
III [Saint Thomas Records]
This album serves as a reminder
as to why I despise the modern incarnation of gothic music so much. While
not every track is deserving of such a harsh reaction, I believe that
overall this album is not necessary unless you want to hear new
underground gothic rock, or "acid-goth" as it's called on this
album. Any way you slice it, I see little that could be considered new or
innovative. What you see is what you get here: gothic rock. That's it,
nothing special... although a couple of the 16 tracks hold infectious
properties. But I couldn't tell you which bands are deserving of praise,
because the CD's track listing is fucked up.
V/A: Seireenia [Projekt]
I once read that the most universally accepted sound as "beautiful"
is the female voice producing a soft vowel sound. Projekt goes for that
basic fact by presenting a compilation of groups with ethereal, female
voices. At their most complicated these groups offer what sounds like
simple choral music for a few voices, as in Stoa's "Maare
Illucescend." Whether chant-like or chanteuse-like, the vocals are
gentle exhalations of Latin-sounding syllables. These medieval
vocalizations are another instrument blended into a dark, ambient mix on
these tracks. The compilation includes newly released tracks from Black
Tape for a Blue Girl and Mira. Other names present include Switchblade
Symphony, Lycia and Amber Asylum.
VA: Subout [Basic Unit Productions
/ Waldorf Electronics]
Waldorf (the synthesizer company) and
Basic Unit Productions released this as an exclusive promotional
compilation intended to portray the marriage of music and technology. The
problem with compilations of this nature is that, even though they are
well-intentioned and of good concept, it puts bands in a position to rush
out exclusive tracks that may be only half-heartedly thrown together.
Rumor has it that the Front 242 track took under an hour to produce, which
explains both the mediocre and rushed feel of the music. Unfortunately,
Front Line Assembly also whip out an easily forgettable electro track.
Dkay.com (ex-Die Krupps) seemingly rip off the Die Krupps hit "Fatherland"
and make a song almost completely identical. Wolfsheim, DKDent (a.k.a.
Dirk Krause of Armageddon Dildos), Kalaydoscope, and Cleaner (Daniel Myer
of Haujobb) offer some decent tracks, but the best track, a synth-pop
piece called "The Cliffs of Norway," is from a band I'd never
heard of before: Ernst Horn (a.k.a. Deine Lakaien). Contributing other
tracks are Hal Ten, Oomph!, De/Vision, Boon, and Diary of Dreams. I
wouldn't say this album is the best representation of new electronic music
considering its biased and mostly "exclusive" nature. None of
the tracks are really "hits" but hard-core fans of the various
bands and contributors may want to get their hands on the exclusive
tracks.
V/A: The Thin Edge of the Wedge
[ArtOfFact]
This compilation is one of the best assemblages
of electronic music I've heard. Including 11 brilliant pieces from such
bands as Beborn Beton, Strategy, Noxious Emotion, Moksha, Abuse, and
Cybershadow, you'd be foolish to miss out. Fresh and diverse, this
compilation is recommended to any fan of the industrial / goth genres that
needs to hear something innovative. It's obvious that ArtOfFact has good
taste and artistic appreciation. I look forward to the future of this
label. Highly recommended.
Will: Deja-Vu [COP Int.]
The
long-buried team-up albums of Rhys Fulber (ex-FLA) and Chris Peterson
(current FLA, Decree) have been resurrected on COP as a single disc much
to the delight of fans searching for the rare early 90s releases. They
were originally known as Pearl of Great Price and Word.Flesh.Stone. on
Third Mind Records. The new converged version contains 16 tracks of "MIDI-evil"
synths, chants, medieval and gothic influences and reflective sampling,
paired with John McRae's tortured vocals, which makes for a very dark and
beautiful CD. The vocals tend to disrupt the music at points, and I was
even wondering if this re-release would do without them due to past
discontent by fans. This minor flaw is counter-balanced however, by
incredible instrumentals and the simple fact that this is after all an
industrial / medieval crossover, which is bound to sound... well,
different. For myself at least, I can offer a big thanks to COP
International for re-releasing this gem.
David
E. Williams: Hello Columbus [Ospedale Records]
This 3
track disc is very well done musically, effectively combining electronic
percussion and keybards with acoustic and live instruments, including
violins, saxophone, and various strings. Some would try to classify it in
one of the goth-whatever genres, but I believe Williams transcends such
nonsense to create a pleasing and beautiful CD. The lyrics are
intelligently written and have a bit of poetry behind them. The music
varies greatly from classically influenced to distorted and tumultuous
sounds. As diverse as the music, the vocals can go from sounding like the
Crashtest Dummies to being agonizingly distorted, neither of which I find
to be a fault because each element is chosen carefully and not over-used.
