Signal² - The Negative

If ever you were to metaphorically stick noise, hip-hop, and electro into a blender with a pinch of heavy bass, Signal² would be the bastard child that would pop out. This French trio started off in 2011 with their debut Fireball, fusing big beats with a signature style that would soon enough mature and evolve. Through years of practice, live shows, and just a dedication to making the best possible music they could, Signal² both got signed to Audiotrauma and released their sophomore album The Negative (Not to be confused with SØLVE's album of the same name the negative which also released on Audiotrauma). 

Signal²'s The Negative, however, could be described as having the angst and attitude of punk music with lyrical delivery akeen to hip-hop, all while delivering filthy, noisy beats hit through hard electro. The first track testifies this as 'This is Real' opens the album with forceful dubstep-styled synths, waving electronics, and an angry Le Jeune spewing out all his emotions. The title track 'The Negative' built upon their dirty songwriting with screeching synth work and a pulverizing bassline that refused to let down. 

'Slaves' started off with light beats and d'n'b, but slowly built itself throughout the song to a final climax that celebrated itself with anger and destruction. Though not as sludgy as the rest of the songs, 'Cats Eyes' provided a cleaner sound while retaining some sounds found within the title track. 'Dead End' had a powerful first half which was followed by drone sound and experimental ambiance while still retaining Signal²'s signature sound. 

'Brain Knows' brought back the big beats and brought out slower, dragging electronics which were complimented by the longer held, screaming lyrics. However, when the delivery picked up so did the music. 'Devil Devil Devil' had nothing to hold back; if you're prepared for war, then this song is for you. The final song was arguably the most synth heavy, as 'Crystalized' was heavy, emotional, and had a pretty grand and epic score. 

I'll admit I came off surprised by this album; when I first took a look at how it was described, I couldn't imagine how all these genres and elements could be blended to make something good. However, Signal² was able to pull it off and they pulled it off well. The Negative is currently available in both digital and physical formats, so if you like these sounds, go out and buy the music. 
Jun 11 2016