Electric Six: Fresh Blood For Tired Vampires (Metropolis Records)
Dick Valentine and his crew blast back with their latest long player, and as always it's full of witty, clever tunes which appeal to the widest of audiences. In the 13 years since Fire debuted the Six has maintained a work ethic second to none with an album a year and a touring schedule that would put the majority of bands into shock. Although the band are still most famously known for the hits from Fire, namely Gay Bar and High Voltage, their music is so much more. The satirical lyricism combined with the sheer brilliance of their fusion of rock, punk, electronica, new wave and even a bit of metal make them a must see.
Fresh Blood For Tired Vampyres continues where last year's Bitch Don't Let Me Die! and 2014’s Human Zoo left off. The Number Of The Beast follows the intro track Acid Reducer, and it is a beast alright with a thumping bass line, electronica and Dick Valentine’s distinctive vocals immediately stirring the desire to cut the most appalling dad shapes. The funk sound of Mood Is Improving is followed by I'll Be In Touch, with the ridiculous lyrics which are a staple of this most brilliant band. “I hate you … but I'll be in touch”. Ridiculous stuff. Lottery Reptiles is old school Six, quick moving and engaging, whilst more of the crazy dance moves are required for Dance With Dark Forces and the new wave synth drenched (Be My) Skin Caboose. Infectious is synonymous with Electric Six and I fail to understand how you cannot be truly under the spell of them after one song. I Got The Box and the B-52’s sounding Lee Did This To Me keep the momentum fired as the album moves to the fine conclusion of The Lover’s Pie and the insanity of Space Walkin’. Yet another eclectic release from one of the world's most original and enjoyable bands. Always worth it. 9/10
Mobius: The Line (Self Released)
Lyon based five piece Mobius have pulled together a real fusion of influences on their debut release The Line. Whilst Djent bass lines and time changes is the dominant sound, there is a huge nod to Opeth, Dream Theater and Symphony X as well as the world of jazz and the progressiveness of Porcupine Tree. The female vocals of Heli add an interesting symphonic metal feel ala Epica. At 54 minutes and only eight tracks The Line consists several lengthy tracks which feature some amazing talent. The percussion of Adrien combines with Julien’s driving bass lines and some searing guitar work from Anton. The keyboards of Guillanme work well to add depth and layers to the band’s sound. An interesting debut which demands extended listening to appreciate the complexity and energy that flows from opener Cosmopolis to the final, epic Mist Of Illusion. 8/10
Be The Wolf: Rouge (Scarlet Records)
The immediate comparison when listening to Rouge was that of The UK’s Brother and Bones. However, on further listens it moved away from the B&B sound and more towards the poppier end of the rock world. A lightweight rock edge, very clean boy band type vocals and some pretty accessible songs, the Turin outfit’s release crosses many genres. I've got to admit that it is pretty generic but very polished and accomplished with some neat hooks and oodles of melody, heart and soul. Federico Mondelli is the driving force behind the band, vocals and guitars all sit with him whilst the rhythm is supplied by bassist Marco Verdone and drummer Paul Canetti. If you fancy something a little more indie edged than the stuff we usually review then give Be The Wolf a try. 7/10
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