Genre/Influences: Electro-Pop, Minimal-Electro, Electro-Wave.

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: Paradox Obscur strikes back with a new full length, which as the title indicates is a kind of compilation. The Greek duo driven by Toxix Razor and Kriistal Ann have been active as Paradox Obscur since 2014. They released four albums on Peripheral Minimal and Young And Cold Records. For “Singles & Rarities” they joined hands together with Metropolis Records, which will for sure create a wider impact.

Content: If you’re already familiar with the sound of the duo, this album doesn’t reveal real surprises. Paradox Obscur composes their songs in a totally vintage-devoted way; not only by the use of hardware equipment (analog), but also by the way of recording their music (in real time). Sound-wise the songs are bringing us back to the magic of 80s Electro-Wave music. Simple, but efficient tracks, which are carried by great synth lines, low resonating bass lines and a good-old rhythm box. Both protagonists are singing, but Kriistal Ann’s unique and sterile timbre of voice remains the main characteristic.

+ + + : The songs sound simplistic, but you don’t always need sophisticated and elaborated song structures to create great songs. That’s exactly what this project and the album try to remind us of; simplicity versus efficiency! The icy atmospheres recovering the songs are essential to catch the sound of the duo. Especially the second part of the work reveals a few pearls, “Resurgence” and “Superbia” being both favorites. This album brings the magic of early 80s productions to life. It’s not only about the music production, but also the vocals reflecting a kind of sterile approach and Kriistal Ann definitely remains a reference in the genre.

– – – : This is not my favorite album from the duo; I definitely prefer works like “Artifact” and “SYNΘESIS”. The first part of the album sounds a bit hesitant.

Conclusion: Paradox Obscur stands for top notch Electronics for old-school lovers.

Best songs: “Resurgence”, “Superbia”, “Perpetual”, “Boulevard Voltaire”, “Fatal”.

Rate: (8).

Artist: www.paradoxobscur.com / www.facebook.com/paradoxobscur

Label: www.metropolis-records.com / www.facebook.com/MetropolisRecords

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