D-Tox - Machines Inc.

'Machines Inc.' is a self-released 4 track EP from Sweden based Dark Electro band, D-Tox, in 2013. After their earlier release of 'Evil Inside' they return with another floor-filler set of dark, thumping, dirty synth tracks with the usual distorted vocal style, however taken more a turn similar to BlakOPz or of early Combichrist. The EP is also free to download from their official Facebook page, so grab it now and listen while you read!

The EP starts with track 1, self-titled "Machine's Inc", very similar in style to their previous 'Evil Inside', however the heavy distorted Dawn of Ashes reminiscent screaming vocal style has vanished, but the actual overall sound of the song still holds a close resemblance to an early Dawn of Ashes track, and not negatively, it's an enjoyable listen and doesn't feel forced or lazy.

Secondly comes "Come to Daddy" a more Combichrist sounding track, (think "Shut Up and Swallow") with a dark sexual dominance in the lyrics that's blends well with the dark and grinding electronic beat stomping a soaring style. Somewhat overused and "immature" maybe to some in its themes but alone stands quite well as a track.

Thirdly is "I", instantly took my attention with it's slow BPM and almost what I'd expect from a Witch House track in terms of sound, made for a slightly spooky and interesting listen. However I felt the vocals fell through a little, less harsh to suit the track but they almost fade or sound like more was needed, being picky, the song works well still and is still a good shape of what's to come. Do some slow gangster head-bobbing to this one.

Track 4 is titled "Weapon of Choice" and again has a slower BPM than the first self-titled club hit style of song and reminds me of a song The .invalid may produce. I hate to compare artists and these connections might not be seen by you but it's a quick way of conveying a style and sound to someone who hasn't heard the track (or if you were good, you would be listening while reading and know what I'm talking about! Right?)

All in all, this EP has definite promise and D-Tox have really picked up from their previous releases, showing a broad range of skill and musical styles in this release, from a hard club hitter to a slower more relaxed but equally edgy "groove-along".

Rating 6.5 out of 10, above average for listening quality, not sure I would have as much replayability on this release and nothing struck me as golden, but I'll keep the track 'Machine Inc' on my iPod and maybe listen to "I" when I'm in the mood for something edgy and slow. Mar 23 2014