REVIEWS

Engelmacher
Birds of a Feather

E-Rhythematosus Records

Posted: Wednesday, July 11, 2007
By: Dj Infam0us
Network technician

Engelmacher's debut album combines the best of EBM, industrial, and semi-trance electronica for a sound that provides a colorful and vibrant conductor for the subtle lyrics delivered by Michael's very versatile voice. The album Birds of a Feather opens with "Retribution," in which the whispering lyrics, rapid fire electronic effects, and varying dance beats wrapped in quality production work set the tone for the entire listening experience. "Circumstance" wreaks of :Wumpscut:'s album Wreath of Barbs with its ambient-woven electronic threads and apocalyptic lyrics. From there, the album transitions from an industrial/EBM feel to a more electronica feel. "Bypass" is what you would get if VNV ever did a trance release. Needless to say, if you like trance, you'll love this track. "Useless Gestures" shows the skill Michael has in processing his vocals. Instead of the whispering vocals heard in almost all of the previous tracks, the vocals on this particular track are clearer, though still processed with an almost liquid effect that gives the overlay among the EBM beats and the racing electronica an epic feel, which is extremely smooth compared to the next track "Thrust." This track pulls you straight back into a more traditional darkwave dance mix of robotic electronic effects and stompy beats. The vocals are laid over lightly with an effect that resembles the voice of Bit from the movie Tron. "Birds of a Feather" is probably the most mellow track on the album, and yet still danceable. The album wraps up with "All in Good Time" and "Devotion," presenting the listener with semi-slow groove dark EBM dance tracks that are reminiscent of Anders Manga's newest release. On the whole, the album is excellently produced. The tracks, at times, get a bit repetitive, but they remain danceable throughout, making Birds of a Feather a good grab for any darkwave dance DJ.