Blackbook – Radio Strange (Album – Digital-CD – darkTunes Music)
Two years after their debut album, “Confessions Of The Innocent”, the enigmatic Swiss duo Blackbook returns with a follow-up that builds on their signature sound. Drawing heavily from ’80s Wave-Pop, they’ve transformed these influences into what can only be described as a near-supernatural copy. At times, the sounds feel so familiar that it seems as if they’ve borrowed elements from existing songs, only to reimagine them in their own unique way. The result is nothing short of stunning, enhanced by professional production. This album encapsulates everything that great Electro-Pop should be: melodic, danceable, filled with memorable choruses, and led by a compelling voice. The main downside is the total absence of originality. So, who exactly are Blackbook? Aliens? AI enthusiasts? Or simply genius copyists? Everyone will have to decide for themselves. (Rate:8).
Listen to “Painkiller”:
About Blackbook
Blackbook is a Swiss duo who perform under masks and withhold their surnames, going only by their first names, Matthias and Albert. Both had previously played in other Swiss and German acts before forming Blackbook. The project released a series of singles before compiling them into its official debut album, “Confessions Of The Innocent”, on darkTunes Music Group. The duo discussed their approach and anonymity in a Side-Line interview, two years before this follow-up album.
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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.
