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Seabound
Come Forward - Live in Berlin

Metropolis Records

Posted: Friday, May 16, 2008
By: John Galope
Contributing Columnist

Germany's Seabound has had an ever increasing and loyal fan base since their debut release, No Sleep Demon in 2001. While they may not be superstars of the scene like VNV Nation or Covenant, Seabound is a dance floor favorite in clubs all over the world. The band's sound, while not terribly original, does have elements that are their own. Icy synths mixed with melodic vocals and driving beats combine to make their music danceable for the club or relaxing down time. With their latest release, Come Forward - Live in Berlin, Seabound gives their fans that have not had the pleasure of seeing them on stage a glimpse into their live performance. Unlike many live albums from other bands in the electro scene, Come Forward's tracks sound different then the original recorded tracks. Martin Vorbrodt performs some of the synths of the songs live while Daniel Wehmeier provides live drums, both of which further infuse the songs with a different feel from their studio originals. Vocalist Frank Spinath's vocals on the records often had effects added to them, but in this live performance, his vocals stand alone, possessing a melodic beauty not heard in their studio recorded albums. The set list itself is a well balanced selection of tracks from their three studio records. Breakout dance tracks like "Poisonous Friend" and "Hooked" are mixed with mellower tracks like "Torn" and "Avalost." One of the surprises found on the CD is on the track "Hooked" where Spinath messes up his vocals and apologizes to the audience for "fucking up." This is rare on live CDs, where bands want to give the perfect performance (this is usually done by recording several live performances, and mixing and matching, as well as studio overdubs after the fact). In this case, it makes the listener feel more like they are at a live performance where mistakes can and often do happen. Overall, the album is a must-purchase for any Seabound fan; not just because it's their first live CD, not just because you haven't had a chance to see them live, but because you'll get to hear the songs you have come to love in a new light. And if you haven't bought a Seabound record yet, this album is a wise first buy, as it has a great selection of their music and is performed in an outstanding way. Out of all of their records, Come Forward may be their strongest album to date.