Back catalogue: Coldwave/Synth

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Borrowing its name from a far right militant organisation dedicated to Christian identity and survivalism, active int he USA in the 1970s and early-80s, The Covenant is a Cabaret Voltaire album in every way, shape and form. Number seven from the band, it landed in 1985 through Some Bizarre Records, a fitting name for the imprint given the contents here, which push the boundaries of synth pop and new wave to the very edge of understanding, while still remaining wholly listenable, danceable, and accessible.

Such was the genius of the late Richard H. Kirk, RIP. Then, as now, this might not be everyone, particularly tracks like the rather haunting and Neo-industrial 'Whip Blow', although fare such as 'Motion Rotation' could easily get any room full of any people onto their feet. Nevertheless, it's testament to just how incredibly creative and bold the Cab Vol vision was. And still is.

Review: COMA has always operated in a world where melody is in high supply and indie and electronica have collided in fresh new ways. The artist is not one to hide away from a big hook or a pop tip line and always manages to imbue their work with tons of emotion. This new album is another step forward that investigates sonic realms ask just how broad the scope of club music can really be. That means Fuzzy Fantasy is in many ways a departure from all-out dance floor focus into something more human and nuanced.

Review: The cult favourite Dark Entries hits 15 in style here and celebrates in the only way it knows how - with more great music. This time it is the legendary synth-punk yahoos Crash Course in Science aka Dale Feliciello, Mallory Yago, and Michael Zodorozny who are in the spotlight. The group formed back in 1979 and set out to make music using toy instruments and kitchen appliances. Their punk-y, aggressive, angular sound soon found a hardcore fan base and gave rise to big tunes like 'Cardboard Lamb' and 'Flying Turns.' In 1981 they recorded Near Marineland, a full-length that never actually saw the light of day but does now and shows the band moving into more diverse and polished territory.