Agency-V – Never Meant To Be (Digital/CD Album – Distortion Productions)
This is the debut album from the English trio Agency-V. Driven by Marie Williamson, Lloyd Price, and Peter Steer (whom you might remember from Tenek), the album largely compiles previously released singles and EP tracks, complemented by a few extras.
Agency-V delivers classic Electro-Pop that meets the finest standards of the genre: danceable, melodic, slightly melancholic, and graced by an angelic voice. The songs sound mature and meticulously produced — nothing feels out of place, and several tracks truly stand out. Occasional guitar touches add extra depth, while their excellent cover of Garbage’s world hit “Stupid Girl” deserves special mention. Personally, I find their slightly heavier tracks to be the most compelling.
The second half of the album features remixes by several notable artists, including Inertia and BlackLight. If there’s one small criticism to make, it’s that Marie Williamson’s voice could use a bit more variation in tone — though there’s no denying that she’s an outstanding vocalist.
Agency-V may not reinvent Electro-Pop, but “Never Meant To Be” is a thoroughly enjoyable debut and a must-listen for fans of the genre. (Rating:8).
Listen to “Dangerous Ground”:
https://agency-v.bandcamp.com/track/dangerous-ground-2
I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
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