Paradox Obscur – IKONA (Digital/CD/Vinyl Album – Metropolis Records)
“IKONA” is already the sixth album by Greek duo Paradox Obscur. Kriistal Ann and Toxic Razor have been active for many years now and have never really changed their approach.
Like all their previous works—and Toxic Razor’s numerous side projects—everything is composed using hardware and recorded in real time. You might think this imposes many technical limitations, but on the contrary, it is precisely what gives the group its strength and, above all, its authenticity. The Minimal-Electro/Wave sound the duo has always embraced remains unchanged. It is a cold experience, further accentuated by the unique, emotionless yet sensual voice of Kriistal Ann. On many tracks, she is supported by her partner Toxic Razor, who provides backing vocals. Simple melodic passages and subtle Techno elements are also noticeable. There is also a surprising cover version from a song of Armin van Buuren which, in my opinion, is not the strongest track on the album. Its floating, Pop-like sound contrasts sharply with the cold yet catchy aesthetic of Paradox Obscur, driven by heavy beats, which I personally prefer. The album contains only a small number of tracks, and they are consistently quite short—another trademark of the duo.
If you are already familiar with Paradox Obscur and appreciate simple yet effective Minimal-Electro/Wave, “IKONA” will not disappoint you. (Rating:8).
Listen to “Vulgar Sequence”:
https://paradoxobscur.bandcamp.com/track/vulgar-sequence
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