New releases last four weeks: Coldwave/Synth

Review: Few tracks capture the icy allure of early 80s electronic experimentation quite like this underground classic. Originally released in 1981, this Swiss post-punk/coldwave classic has transcended its era, becoming a cult favorite across underground scenes and DJ sets of various genres. Now reissued on limited blue vinyl, its influence remains undeniable. 'Eisbaer' is a track that bridges stark, minimalist electronics with the raw energy of post-punk. The hypnotic bassline and cold, robotic drum programming lay a foundation for jagged guitar stabs and eerie synth flourishes, creating an urgent, mechanical pulse. The disaffected, almost mantra-like vocalsideclaring "Ich mochte ein Eisbar sein" ("I want to be a polar bear")iheighten its existential detachment. Echoes of Throbbing Gristle's industrial edge and Cabaret Voltaire's abstract electronics blend seamlessly with the emerging synth-pop movement, helping to push new wave into more danceable, electronic territory. Side B's 'Film 2' takes a more abrasive approach, a pounding, near-industrial instrumental that pulses with motorik intensity. 'Ich Lieb Sie' is more restrained but equally unsettling, its sparse arrangement and ghostly atmosphere reinforcing Grauzone's unique ability to evoke emotion through minimalism. Timeless and still chillingly modern, this reissue ensures that Eisbar and its B-sides continue to inspire. A crucial document of coldwave's evolution, reaffirming why this track remains a DJ favourite decades later.

Review: After a string of viral hits as well as a standout live performance documented in front of the iconic Panorama Hotel, which served as the visual centrepiece of their breakthrough album Etazhi, Belarusian darkwave band and viral sensation Molchat Doma now present the vinyl edition of said live performance in vinyl form. Known for their distinct Soviet-era, gothic post-punk, this new live record vivifies three beloved tracks from Etazhi and their subsequent record Belaya Polosa: 'Toska', 'Sudno' and 'Cherne Cvety'. Bleak, washed out and yet never sacrificial of a moment's performative energy, Egor and company weave compelling synth and guitar arrangements about blurry mixes, evoking the desolation of the backgrounded Slovakian landscape captured in the live video. The limited one-time pressing 12" includes the three live tracks on side A and the etching of the iconic hotel on side B.