Ladytron
"Velocifero"
Free Track:
"Black Cat"
Label: Nettwerk
Release Date: June 3rd, 2008
Ladytron is back to revolutionize and revitalize the dance scene once again—and to redefine the electro-rock revival that they helped to establish. As early as 2001, Ladytron's high-impact synth riffs have been resonating across the globe with their intoxicating mix of pop, darkness and dance.
Ladytron’s latest release, "Velocifero," perfects the band’s sound, revealing influences much heavier than the bubble-gum pop of earlier singles like "Playgirl" or "Seventeen." As their single "Black Cat" indicates, this album marks Ladytron's journey into more Bjork-like territory, with Goth sensibilities and labyrinthine layering of effects and synths.
Featuring heavy buzz-saw bass lines, shoe-gaze fuzz and ethereal, lace-like vocals, all backed with a distinctly rock-based aesthetic, "Velocifero" marks a definite return to a rougher aesthetic. Take "Destroy Everything You Touch," drench it in black ink, and blast it with ice crystals—there are no soft edges here.
After Ladytron successfully introduces their vamped up sound within the first three tracks, the album becomes distinctly more listenable (and markedly more diverse), invoking a coldly beautiful euphoria on "Tomorrow" and a melodic, Sonic Youth-like reverie on "Seasons of Illusions".
Ladytron even includes a cover of Klatva, a song from a 1970's BG movie, which in its bizarre idiosyncrasy is sure to grace any self-respecting hipster’s mix CDs in no time. With its graceful charge against the status quo, coupled with a kick-ass aesthetic and killer bass lines, Ladytron's "Velocifero" is sure to take its rightful place among the best albums of 2008.
If you like "Velocifero" by Ladytron, then be sure to check out "The Colors of the Wheel" by Venus Hum, "Black Cherry" by Goldfrapp and “England Made Me” by Black Box Recorder.