Antiscion - Cold Prospect

While listening through the brand new Synthematika Three compilation, Antiscion's "Overthrown" left the biggest mark on me and I had to check this artist out. As it happens, Antisction just released his debut album 'Cold Prospect' on his own. I know he is looking for labels to release it, and I would be surprised if not any of the more recognized labels pick this up, because this stuff is hot enough to leave red marks on your skin; maybe even make you spontaneously combust.

Antiscion somewhat remind me of the now more or less cancelled American project Alaska Highway I used to adore in the beginning of the 00's. However, where Alaska Highway had a bit more tendency to lean on the synthpop genre, Antiscion tend to go further against the Futurepop genre and fans of Pride and Fall, as one example, are bound to like this.

The reason why I just mentioned Pride and Fall (I could have mentioned Seabound as well) is the reason that both have quite a thin layer of dark spread over it. It has a bit of a depressed tone to it; it's more of a feeling than a sound. Instead of using cheap tricks to create a hit (synth)pop tune, Antiscion rather give you a structured emotional experience. I'm not undermining his ability to create great melodies and memorable choruses, because there's a more than a handful to find here. Try to listen to "Anthema" or "Overthrown" a couple of times and not sing along with the chorus, it's impossible.

Zac's voice is already great and I'm sure it will evolve during the upcoming years, it's far from flat, but I look forward to see it improve even more, to make even more dynamically and changing styles to vary the vocals up even more.

If I had a label I would print this album instantly, instead, I can only pledge you labels out there to pick Antiscion up, because he's here to stay. A debut album with more than 60 minutes of all well produce songs should be given the respect it deserves. I will gladly follow this artist without any doubt and I hope this review will help him gain recognition. Jan 13 2012