Sirus - Satellite Empire

As soon as I sat down and heard the introductory song to Sirus' "Satellite Empire", all I said to myself was, "This is music for the future punk revolution." Focusing on the blowout of Edward Snowden's reveal as to just how much the NSA was spying on American citizens and invading their privacy, "Satellite Empire" gives out a cyberpunk attitude and inflammatory statements on their feelings towards the mass surveillance project. Let's just say that they are none too happy about it, and every song on the album and the powerful samples that are used within them are their testimonials on the topic. 

"Surveillance State" says it all in one sitting. Aside from the riveting electro-industrial beat, the lyrical content is enough to make you want to strap on your boots and start a revolution. Other stand out tracks include "You Are Hollow", which fuses Sirus' lovely beats with glitchy breakdowns and powerful synth leads, the breakbeat and dubstep influenced "P.R.I.S.M.", the cinematic and tribal drum focused "The People We've Lost", and the piano based final track "Surfacing". I'm not putting down the other tracks on the album, as they're all swell and dandy, but these three really showcased what Sirus can do at their finest. 

However, the best (and, dare I say, perfect) song on the album would have to be the smooth and relaxing electro dominated "Neon Dominion". Danielle McKay has a wonderful vocal solo midway through the song and it was absolutely gorgeous. Not only that, but Josh Rombout followed up with clean chords right after that, making for one of the most engaging and emotional bouts on the album.

Punchy, angry, and hard hitting at times, "Satellite Empire" can also lead straight into beautiful and well produced segments. This Melbourne based band produced a couple of tracks that will be topping my personal best of 2015 list. My last and only hope is that someday I'll be able to see them perform live. I've heard they put on a damn fine live show, and I believe seeing "Satellite Empire" played on stage would be nothing short of magical, much as a dream would be.

But, until then, I'll keep "Satellite Empire" playing and playing and playing as I dream of a cyber future where these fine Aussies would reign as kings.  
Dec 10 2015