Nature of Wires - Reborn

The last time I tangoed with Nature of Wires was back in 2016 when they released their debut album "Cyber Rendezvous". While I found synthetic master Gary Watts' electronic work to be fascinating, the album was bogged down by less than stellar vocal work. In a touching sentiment, however, Watts has reignited Nature of Wires with his previous bandmate Lady B. Lady B partook in the project between 1992 and 1994 and has come back for this very special four track EP. Due to Watts' almost cybernetic connection to the machines he controls and Lady B's powerful yet sentimental voice, "Reborn" comes out on top as Nature of Wires' most stunning work yet.



An absolute futurepop banger titled 'Try' starts off the album and introduces us to the aforementioned Lady B. Her voice flows pitch perfect with the music on the album; her voice has a touch of sadness about it yet comes off strong as if nothing will push her down. Watts matches this performance with a fun yet catchy and bouncy electronic beat that can roll with the big dogs. 'Human Nature' has a darker aura surrounding it thanks to crunchier notes passing through the song. It's in this contrast that Nature of Wires find themselves exploring new territory. It also allows the EP to be fun to listen to as I never really knew what was coming next in terms of tone and song structure. 

Though Nature of Wires is primarily found within the synthpop and futurepop arenas, Watts' influence does not end their. He is quite the electronic junkie and finds himself injecting elements of EBM within his songs. This is showcased on the song 'Suffer' where the quicker, stompier bouts of percussive rhythms take over the song. The last song on the album, 'Fight', features plenty of dance synths that add an air of ambiance to the song whilst Lady B sings her heart out. 

With the addition of Lady B, Nature of Wires has found a grand mix of electronics and vocal splendor. Neither asset of the band outdoes the other; instead they work together in perfect harmony. The EP is available on both CD and digital formats via Echozone and it is recommended. 
May 22 2019