|
This is the synth-pop project of DJ PiCi, a major figure on the Greek electro and techno scene. It's a shining example of a strange phenomenon - music that was once condemned as soulless because it was "made by machines" has come to sound supremely emotional and atmospheric, far beyond much "real music."
This album leaves traditional pop behind with its warmth and sense of melody.
Please Breath could be THE ultimate electro pop anthem. It begins with an already-classic synth riff and a drum beat which revels in its status as an artificial creation. In come the ice cold, monotone vocals of Kitty Kiryttopoulou; in keeping with the contradiction described above, they soon start to sound profoundly moving. Poky Space also uses vocals effectively and is a truly haunting song.
1970 and Post Sincerity are more laid back tunes, with bouncy bass and relaxed beats. Real Human Being is the comedown song; some of the coldness is gone, replaced by sadder reflection. This variety provides some light and shade, a great achievement for an electro album.
These songs bridge a gap between the pure pop of Depeche Mode and the Human League and the more serious pulsating of Kraftwerk. Despite the lack of any traditional instruments, there are also traces of the Cure and New Order, as well the more electro-based tracks on Joy Division's Closer (unsurprising, given that this album is by Decades).
Cold as ice yet burning with emotion. Some guitar bands could learn a lot from this.
CHRISTOPHER TAYLOR
|
