temposhark - invisible ink/little white lie
second single from this london club, vice affiliated electro pop band. while the first single (neon) was a fine slice of dancefloor action it did little to indicate the real direction of the band's future intentions. however, the lead track here, 'invisible ink' is a very different affair, proving that the band are not a one trick pony. the beats are reduced to a minimal down tempo futuristic groove, and dark edgy atmospherics and gorgeous vocals make this a direct descendant of depeche mode's finest moments. superb spacious production adds to the overall impact, making for a totally spellbinding track.
flip over for the far more intense and seedy 'little white lie' - story telling lyrics make this track somewhat interesting ('yes i'm married but i left my wife at home' kind of indicates where the duo are going with this !). an edgy electro-industrial beat pounds away before a slice of processed guitar rips into the track at 2 minutes while the acid tinged synths do their thing to blistering effect. very impressive, and exactly the sort of naughty electro i always expected sheep on drugs to storm the charts with. as always, there are remixes available, an acid stomp mix by 'cursor minor' of 'little white lie' on the cd, and a more rock flavoured remix by crispin j glover on the 12", but, i have to say i prefer the straight to the jugular appeal of the original.
the cd single is however then closed down by the predominantly instrumental 'snow' where a simple piano riff pounds away subtly, while beats are scattered all over the place, far away whispered vocals try to reveal themselves to the listener before the strings and synths drown all chance of hearing what is being conveyed. if the band can continue with this kind of quality, then the album is going to be a serious highlight. this single is both aimed at the groovers, the sleazy, the hipsters, the electro revivalists, and anyone who likes a slice of dirty pop music.
oh, and i should make a note, as before with 'neon', with the pink vinyl and cut-out sleeve, there is a lovely extra twist provided with the packaging. but i am not spoiling the surprise here - i'll leave you to find out for yourselves.