Digital Deformation - Powertrips

If you ask anybody who knows anything about Industrial, the UK must surely be cited as a necessary component in the Electronic War Machine. From the hugely Iconic Coil, to the Dark Electro bands such as CeDigest and Abraxas Eyes, the United Kingdom has developed a knack for turning heads, and I have watched this scene become very essential over the last decade.

Digital Deformation is the latest project to attempt to breakthrough into the upper echelons of dance floor playlists, and this, the second album looks like it may run the risk of being devoid of any kind of thrill. Before I even put this release onto my playlist, I took a view at the official band page, and was not surprised in the slightest to find that the group has already changed its name from "Einsatzgruppen". Apparently, you cannot be in an Industrial band anymore without having at least some Germanic/Military Ethos running through your veins.

Ultimately, despite all the lack of hype and expectant dis-interest, 'PowerTrips' is actually full of promise. Opener "WW3" is rich in synth loops, club beats, and carries the usual relentless pounding that can make the difference between a club success and an empty dance floor. The title track doesn't quite deliver the same urgency, neither does it generate an impulse to get up and stomp (which all good Industrial should be able to do, at least on one occasion).

The release manages to weave various influences and styles of Electronica into its sounds, ranging from Dark Electro (WW3) to more Noise/Power Electronic style intros (Acts of Defiance). If faults are to be picked (and there ARE faults), then I need to highlight the dis-balance of the vocals. The vocals are performed correctly, and don't sound wrong, or bad in anyway. Something about the way they are mixed just doesn't sit well with me, and I wish I knew why.

Also, to the Rivetheads out there that have strong preferences to one particular style of Industrial, you may find that you only like half of this album, due to the variation in sounds. However, this release is strong enough to catch my eye, and infinitely better than the Meandering Combichrist-esque cesspit I was expecting.

Strong Points: "WW3", "CCTV", successful transition of styles.
Weak Points: Vocal Mix, lack of a real stand out track. Oct 14 2010