System:FX - Overdrive EP

Despite being a well-loved act in the UK live scene, System:FX haven't quite made it as a household name yet. This two-piece band consisting of Steve (vox, guitars, programming), and Deb (Drums, Backing Vocals) have recently parted company with their Keyboardist, and although this couldn't have come at a worse time, Overdrive seems to be powerful enough to stymy any possible setbacks. Opener "Overdrive" is formed around the familiar sound of Air-Raid sirens, and the old-school sound borrows heavily from Cubanate and KMFDM.

The first EP, "High.Definition.Violence" was interesting - I felt that it had potential, but hadn't found its feet enough to really burst through the barrier seperating established and amateur - that's NOT to suggest that I am calling the band amateur at all - the sound is Great, Steve's voice is what you want to hear from a band this aggressive, and it's a delight to have a live, actual drummer, especially a Female one in this Male-dominated sub-genre.

The whole point of reviewing is to be honest, and the couple won't mind me expressing my surprise at this. It's like watching Magikarp evolve into Gyarados.

"Destroyer" is hands down the best S:FX track so far, and I fully intend to catch this at Slimelight sometime, as it will be a club hit. 'F.K.D.' reminds me a bit of 90's arcade machines, with a chip inserted that swears at the audience. This EP is great, beyond all expectations, and although not everyone will flock to System:FX, they have come a long, long way.

I still question whether Four remixes and 3 original tracks works well or not - the remixes are great, but the new sound makes me want more, and I have to suggest that they work on an album as soon as possible.

In terms of criticism, the vanilla sound from the first EP is still there, despite the makeover - if you were played this EP alongside some similar sounding bands, you may struggle to immediately recognise it when played later, but that's ok, as the band does exactly what they want to do, and that's to kick ass.

Down to earth, serious, and accomplished. Aug 19 2011