Neon Electronics – Liberation (Digital/Vinyl EP – Oráculo Records)
When The Neon Judgement called it quits in the late ’90s — although they would return regularly, mainly for live performances — Dirk Da Davo decided to continue solo with Neon Electronics. Over the years, he received support from Glenn Keteleer and Pieter-Jan Theunis. The first self-titled album was released in 1999, ushering in a career that now concludes in 2026 with this final record.
Neon Electronics has gone through several stylistic periods in terms of influences and genre, but on “Liberation” — which feels more like a mini-album — the project returns to ’80s influences. The music and atmosphere radiate Cold-Wave, driven by danceable beats. There is a fine balance between guitar and electronics, resulting in a dark atmosphere enriched by eerie vocals, while additional influences from Techno and EBM also emerge. More than ever before, I hear clear references to The Neon Judgement, though I doubt anyone will mind.
This release contains six tracks (only five on the vinyl edition) as well as two remixes by Ancient Methods and Patrick Codenys of Front 242. The album bids farewell to us with Neon Electronics at its very best, and somehow that genuinely hurts the listener. This is a highly accomplished and technically refined production filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. I would also like to highlight the excellent remix by Patrick Codenys, which, in my opinion, even slightly surpasses the original track. The bonus track included on the digital edition is likewise a brilliant piece of work in which melody and sonic chaos blend beautifully together.
“Liberation” is a brilliant release that immediately feels like the epitaph of Neon Electronics and, as far as I am concerned, a project that will be deeply missed. What’s next, Dirk? (Rating:8½).
Listen to “Liberation”:
https://oraculorecords.bandcamp.com/track/liberation
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