Attrition – The Black Maria (Album – Two Gods)
Genre/Influences: Electro-Wave, Cinematic, Experimental.
Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette.
Background/Info: Martin Bowes strikes back with a new album of his sonic brainchild Attrition. Being active since 1980 Attrition can look back at an impressive discography. The new work reveals eight songs and has been accomplished together with multiple guest singers and musicians. Martin Bowes teamed up with female vocalists including Emke (Black Nail Cabaret), Yvette (Vaselyne), Joanne Wolf and the return of the original Attrition singer Julia Niblock Waller. Guest musicians Alia Miroshichenko, Annie Hogan, Vancorvid and Marietta Fox, Ian Arkley, Steve Clarke and Kris Force joined forces together with Attrition.
Content: Attrition stays true to their recognizable sound mixing Electronic sound treatments and Neo-Classical elements -played with acoustic instruments. There is a Soundtrack atmosphere interspersed with more danceable songs. The female vocalists bring a sensual touch to the work that is reinforced with the slow, sultry, rhythms. Martin’s deeper timbre of voice brings a nice contrast to the singing.
+ + + : The album and its overall approach to sounds and arrangements remains recognizable. I like this sound DNA where Electro and Neo-Classical are in total harmony. Attrition also remains intriguing for its sensual passages covered in dark atmospheres and Industrial sounds. There is something to say about almost every song, but the well-known “The Switch” (previously released as an EP-title song) remains an absolute delight. Other highlights include “The Zero Hour” and the title track “The Black Maria.” Attrition remains a warrant for an original and very personal sound full of subtlety and other, small details.
– – – : I regret the work only features 8 tracks including an intro.
Conclusion: This is an astonishing and highly artistic work by Attrition; for Electro gourmets.
Best songs: “The Switch”, “The Black Maria”, “The Zero Hour”, “The Pillar II”, “The Great Derailer”.
Rate: 8½.
Artist: www.attrition.co.uk / www.facebook.com/ATTRITIONMUSIC
Label: www.twogods.co.uk / www.facebook.com/TwoGods
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