Industrial music reviews

Good background music for surfing, programming or just doing organic stuff.

This is a really terrific album. Every track is exellent, but it's a full concept album that should be listened to from start to finish. I recommend it for anyone who has any liking of electronic music.

Every track is simply brilliant. This is a merging of ambient and industrial. There is real creativity here.

OK, I like Mark Stewart and I really loved Metatron, which I think is one of the best records ever (really!) but this was really really not that good. It is simply very cold and while his anger is still present the playing is not that agressive anymore. get Metatron instead first and then get hist earlier stuff.

yes, i wonder why everyone's claiming various other musicians to be innovative whilst the one who really is, is hard to get any info about! that is amazing...and very sad. personally i think that Mark Stewart is one of the most talented composers of our times and he plays/sings with his soul. he's got something that is similar to Van Gogh in painting, - he seems to be too emotional and looks like he feels too much and tries to express it all in his music. yet he's got the amazing rythm, drive and his stuff can pick ones attention fully cos not only is he "an indie/underground/bohemian" type of musician whos music is almost impossible to listen to cos of some so called "experimental research",- Mark Stewart's stuff is absolutely complete and he's got something real to say. It's catchy in a good sense and it's extremely far away from the mainstream.
And yes, I wonder what he's up to now, in the year 2004...Wish to hear his new stuff so much, hope he's doing all great!

Mark Stewart, one of the great unacknowledged forerunners of the industrial, trip-hop and elctronica scenes shows the imitators how its done on this all-digital disc. Dozens of acts have been more succesful than Mark Stewart playing the type of hard-edged, funk/techno that he almost singlehandedly created. But none have ever been more out-there and creative. My only question -- where is he now? There hasn't been a new Mark Stewart album in four years.

i bought this when i went into a store to ask this one guy who was into industrial/gothic type music, if there's any kind of music that combines the elements of trance and industrial. origionally i was looking for something that would be the perfect combination between paul oakenfold's tranceport, and the really noisy nin songs like heresy, reptile, and the big come down. you know, the noisy grating kind of stuff, with lots of pounding metallic drums.

he recommended this compilation because it featured many artists, some of which i'd heard of(velevet acid christ, front line assembly), some not(funker vogt, vnv nation), and was pretty cheap. so i picked it up and while it is enjoyable, it is easily a lot more trance than industrial. it's got the nice soothing string synthesizers, mixed together with really fat bass synths and distorted skinny puppy-style vocals/chicks with strong voices(think kmfdm).

for the most part, this is pretty danceable, the music hops along at a nice pace, and while it can sound pretty, the distorted vocals add a welcome edge. think of a slightly underproduced skinny puppy album remixed by paul oakenfold on a so-so day. no question, though, there are some great tunes on here that i'm liking the more i hear(tracks 1,3,4,8,9, especially), but in the end this isn't quite what i had in mind.

if anyone knows of some good noisy trance/industrial like i'm looking for. please email me. preferably something along the lines of a really distorted drum and bass album, or like meatier versions of 'only good christian is a dead christian', and 'superkalafrajilisticsadomasochism', both by foetus. industrial beats with meat. someone has to know what i'm talking about.. please contact me! i need music!

Not a lot to say about individual tracks because, save one, they have been heard before. Yet that is part of what makes this album a good choice to the fan, casual listener, or curious. The selection of tracks is suitably mild and danceable. Even the Wumpscut selection is one of the more mellow songs they do. As an addition to a collection, this grouping makes for good listening or dancing. For the un-initiated, think of NIN, but not as guitar heavy. Stand out tracks - Wumpscut - "Hang Him Higher", DIN_FIV - "Through the Looking Glass", VNV Nation -"Rubicon", and Apoptygma Berzerk "Soultaker".

When looking for EBM music and the different flavorful coatings that it could come in, I found myself bumbling around and trying out everything I could get my hands on. Sometimes this proved to be a great way of finding things and other times it proved to be a disaster, but it left me longing for an easier way to Discern whether something was worthwhile or not. That's when I first bumbled into samplers left by Metropolis in the forms of Electropolis and then, later on, in the form of Critical Mass. These compilations were something of an impressive outing in many rights, because they managed to string together many a band that was worth listening to on albums that I would have thought to be less of an impact, knowing that most compilations are filled to the brim with disposable tracks by disposable bands. Still, when it comes to the things that this label puts out, or has put out thusfar, this is far from the case. Instead, they were using their samplers as a pedestal from which to preach and I, a needy apostate, listened on.

Amongst many of the releases that come in this form, most of the tracks aren't new or are simply remixes. That's why I like this one because it does actually have a new song amidst the experimental mixes as well. Yes, First and foremost amongst the listings on the albums is the release from Funker Vogt, Horizon, that isn't available in any other forum. Its a good piece, with the standard lean into technotronic aggression that they were taking at the time, making it a worthy track to own and one to listen to over and over again. For fans of the band and simple listeners alike, it makes this album, at its low price, worth picking up. Still, there's quite a bit more. Next, Cleaner, a soft version of the Metropolis family and one I enjoy quite a bit, adds its own EBM specialties with vocals that stand with melody and not distortion, giving them a purer, more techno sound. It seems odd to be mixed in-between Funker Vogt and then, then Wumpscut, but that also gives it something interesting to note as well. Wumpscut's Hang Him Higher is something you'd expect from the band, with dark melodies mixing in shadowy tones that seem to be the staple that the band is known for. Its something that is somewhat hard to find, too, so its a good piece to find added to this album. Din Fiv, Informatik's softer side, is showcased with Through the Looking Glass, something that is high in beat classification but that is different for people only accustomed to Informatik because the darkness has been lost and the exploratory nature of lyrics have been adopted in a more techno-oriented form. The notables go on and on (with no disrespect to any of them for listing them this way because I love them all), with Front Line Assembly's Retribution mixing with Covenant's Afterhours, one of VNV Nation's most expressive releases Rubicon, Apoptygma Beszerk's Soultaker, Decoded Feedback's Darkness Inside of Me, and Velvet Acid Christ doing their thing before the fear of exploration overtook their need to press forward. In many a sense, it was probably one of the best samplers I've ever laid my hands on.

For anyone looking to see the softer side of the EBM rainbow without sacrificing beats or skill, this might be a good place to look. While it does have pieces that are a bit dark within it and a few that are driven, it isn't as heavy as the outing provided in the Electropolis releases and is a good introduction to what Metropolis has to offer. Besides, this disk is filled with bands that I would consider worthy of anyone's attention, so much so that it was hard for me to actually list them without providing in-depth expressions on each and every flavor. Regardless of objections I've seen, this comes HIGHLY recommended.

I have a few of the later albums by JG Thirlwell, but this may be my favorite so far, it's a hybrid of experimental, industrial and new-wave music, even old-school rap. It's reminiscent of older, "hard core" Devo with its synthesized basslines, robotic beats and sarcastic lyrics (most of which are perhaps tame by today's standards, but I can't imagine any pop radio station or MTV would've wanted to play the funky and catchy "Today I Started Slogging Again," a rap about sadomasochism, back in 1982). Not necessarily a perfect album -- it's hard to be with its many samples and odd interludes -- but its weakness are as interesting and amusing as its strengths and particularly unique in context -- definitely worth checking out, whether or not you're familiar with Foetus.

I've heard all of Foetus' works, with this being the latest I've heard. I notice that when an artist does their earliest stuff, it often seems to not necessarily be their best, but more so their most raw and reckless stuff. Having heard all of his latter recklessness, I was still captivated by DEAF!. It is an absolutely eclectic album, full of the maniacal creativity of our favorite studio hermit who at this point, finally was able to gather enough money to do a full length album by himself. This is a perfect example of why categories are only used for treating music as a file cabinet. If this is industrial, then everything is industrial. This is has such a diverse source of interest that you can hear the spines of almost every structured style of music fused into madness. What's particularly interesting is the way such complex lyrics have been molded into such a challenging structure. Particularly withthe songs that have elements of disco, early hip hop, rock, and video game carnival music. These are strong melodies for people who don't like dance music, but know how to get down. Boogie on.

Foetus is crazy. This music is sort of noisy & abrasive in a very unusual way -- not by being noisy so much as WEIRD. The electronic sounds are unique products of Jim Thirlwell's ever-avant-garde mind. You can also dance to them. You can definitely dance to this crazy cd. It's really fun, this debut album of Foetus when his art was as foetal as it is now, & sounded sooo different. With its samples & eccentricities, this was long before jazz had entered into his work, before the noisiness of Thaw, the darkness of Wiseblood, the strings of Nail, before he used anything like loud guitars. The cd ends with a very clearing thick drone-like thing that's a little painful sort of how Einstuerzende's Headcleaner from Tabula Rasa is. I hope this review has been helpful to you.

Hey, this isn't a Gitane Demone solo album -- Demonix is the name of the band! Demonix was a collaboration between ex-Christian Death chanteuse Gitane Demone and former A Split-Second frontman Mark Ickx (Demone + Ickx -- get it?). Together, they laid down some heavy, sexualized, S&M, voyeuristic gothic-industrial music. Put this in your disc changer with some Master/Slave Relationship, Genitorturers, Lords of Acid, Sleep Chamber, and Women of Sodom and you've got the soundtrack to a beautifully deviant evening!

Gitane Demone always fascinates me with every new album that she puts out. You cannot label her as simply gothic anymore, she has broken so many boundaries with her music. She has delved into jazz, electronica, death rock, gothic caberet, you name it she does it and with panache. The Demonix Cd is one of my favorites by her. This sexual carnival with many fascinating scenarios musically and sexually is bound to stir up your most carnal desires as it does mine. The music is atmospheric and brooding, and Gitane delivers some of her most devastating vocals to date, God she has a beautiful voice! Another great part of the album is that there are a couple of tracks that are very club worthy and great to dance to. A great disc for late night indescretions and kinky scenarios! Check it out ...!

If PVC, handcuffs, whips, rubber, stiletto heels, or preferably all of the above is what gets your motor turning then this is the album for you. This is THE soundtrack for an evening of pleasure in pain.

This is definitely a must for fans of ambient and experimental noise. The ambient pieces have an Eno-Cage quality, while the more noisier tracks are very reminiscent of Throbbing Gristle and early Nurse With Wound. However, unlike TG and NWW these guys actually know how to play their instruments, and seem to know their way around a studio as well.

I first heard about this album in a Village Voice review. I can honestly say that this is one of the most unique and challenging albums that I have ever heard. A fan of more experimental music, I initially found Detach very difficult to listen to. Although the more I listened to it, the more I began to appreciate the uniqueness of their sound. It's encouraging to see that there are still bands who are willing to take risks.

This is an album that's definitely worth owning. The first time I listened to it I wasn't sure what I thought... it was almost like my ears had to re-adjust themselves to the exotic sounds coming thrrough the speakers. However, the second time I listened, it grabbed me. The minimalist soundscapes, this hiss of pure current, the pounding that seethes up through layers of sound... quite a trip. One of my favorites. Get a copy -you won't regret it.

Buy this if you like industrial/ebm/electro, but often
find harsh, distorted male vocals detractive. Or if you find
clearer female vocals additive. Either way, it's a good
compilation. Many industrial/ebm acts consist of one or two
programmers/keyboardists who really can't sing, but are great at
programming their synths. Fortunately, they are aware of this
and their solution usually involves passing vocals through a lot
of filters until it's unintelligible, or not attempting to sing
at all. This is not always a bad thing, but after a decade such
antics tend to bore. Diva X Machina is the fix for anyone
disappointed in the vocal offerings of industrial/ebm.

As of 2001, there exists Diva X Machina I, II, and III.

This is an excellent sampler. It introduces you to many excellent female fronted indie bands. Specially for those who don't frequent stores that carry hard to find indie imports. Take a taste of The Razor Skyline, Sunshine Blind, Coptic Rain, Battery and many other gems.

An album of angry female industrial bands, who are not afraid of sharing with the world. Never before has a complitation album managed to get so many fabulous songs in one place. I originally bought this for the whistful 'Spring' by 'Fading Colours' but after just one listen, I knew this disc was my favorite. I haven't removed it from the changer since I purchased it! It runs the range from electronic beat with slow vocals, to a drum, guitar, vocal free for all. For anyone who likes to hear girls who aren't afraid to get a little dirty, girls who's voices make you feel insignificant, girls who will beat you to a bloody pulp and then laugh out loud, this is the album you've been waiting for.

The guy from Godflesh is the one who brought this band together. That should sum it up a bit. I did own this CD at one time and it was Friggin Great!

i particularly enjoyed <> because of the lovely breathy vocals.

i thought <> fell flat a little, the middle 8 wasn't very well thought out, and Paddy seems to be struggling a little on the chorus.

Hang on - is this the Prefab Sprout bit?

A GREAT SOUNDING RECORD. MUCH HEAVIER THAN THOSE SO-CALLED INDUSTRIAL-METAL TYPE OF BANDS TODAY. ANYONE WHO LISTENS TO GODFLESH, KILLING JOKE OR THE SWANS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THIS RECORDING. IF NOT, THEN GET A COPY IMMEDIATLEY OR BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF.

jeepers creepers! they actually wrote songs!!! wow!! and they are really catchy too!!! i say that this is their best,too bad it wasent released before "blood guts and pussy"(another classic).every song is great.blags vocals are the best hes done.i challange all kids to bring this into class for show and tell.are you ready to accecpt the lord jesus christ as your personnal saviour? yes.........no wait!!!

This and "Blood , Guts , and Pussy" go down as being the best albums by the Dwarves. Every song on here is totally awesome , and it was their first on Epitaph , which is why it's probably better than the albums on sub-pop. "Demonica" , " I Will Deny" , "Everybody's Girl" , are three of the most incredible songs the Dwarves ever recorded.

This release (no pun intended) is demented and very perverted and hard. The dwarves epitomize punk rock. All the best topics are covered: underage girls,christianity (being pointless),blood,being in love with everybodys girl, pimps, teaching children to worship satan, its all here!

Imperative Reaction combines the depressing lyrics of American industrial bands (Skinny Puppy, Nine Inch Nails, and Praga Khan) with the inspired, organized, and atmospheric electronic music of European industrial bands. Eulogy has some great tracks on it (Scorpio, The Longing, Overcast), while some just seem like fillers. Overall, I think this a great debut release for Imperative Reaction, and that they should be commended for implementing the more European style to their sound.

With Industrial music hitting the wall lately, the lack of originality and innovation in much of the material in this genre persuaded some to seek out more challenging music. Imperative Reaction may fall into the dreaded 'Industrial Dance' category, but they do it exceptionally well and most of the songs on the band's debut release 'Eulogy for a Sick Child' are actually quite good. The style they have chose for their first release is nothing that many other bands like Funker Vogt, FLA, :Wumpscut:, Velvet Acid Christ, Le�ther Strip, etc. haven't already incorporated, but again, Imperative Reaction has a very good handle on this. This is textbook Industrial - growling vocals, jumpy synth-lines, four-on-the-floor pounding techno beats, movie samples, and the like, but what makes this release interesting is the tight grip IR seem to have on this style. Ted Phillips' vocal approach is strangely close to Rudy Ratzinger's on many tracks but in light of the recent :Wumpscut: disappointment, I think Ted pulls it off better (wow, did I just say that?). The music is straightforward, complex, and well-crafted. D�vE executes all of the tracks like a professional, and after listening to 'Eulogy for a Sick Child' it's no wonder Metropolis and Zoth Ommog snatched them up so quickly after the album's initial release. Songs like 'The Longing (For detachment)' and 'Flatline' hold their own with European club-stormers in the hard electro arena. The beats are nice and tight and the vocals flow imminently with the steady driving rhythms. `Eulogy for a Sick Child' is the beginning of something significant and genuine; where others have failed, Imperative Reaction is here to take up the slack.

I buy a lot of EBM and industrial music and this album is by far my newest favorite for the year. I love industrial dance of this quality and every track on the album is strong. The music is complex with simple melodies layered into delicately harsh vocals and strong industrial dance-beats, and yet sustain excellent musical form. I was quite surprised to discover the band is based in the US because I would expect the sound to come out of Belgium or Germany. The closest bands I can relate them to are all on Metropolis - Wumpscut, Informatik, Decoded Feedback, etc.