Cleopatra Records – SIDE-LINE https://www.side-line.com Industrial, electro, EBM, post-punk, darkwave news magazine Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:49:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-side-line-logo-png-32x32.png Cleopatra Records – SIDE-LINE https://www.side-line.com 32 32 Deep Red releases all German single, ‘Atom Rot’, feat. Hoffa of the band Faustan – Out now https://www.side-line.com/deep-red-releases-all-german-single-atom-rot-feat-hoffa-of-the-band-faustan-out-now/ Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:49:33 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=52327 Deep Red releases a brand new single, “Atom Rot”. The track is the first song...]]>

Deep Red releases a brand new single, “Atom Rot”. The track is the first song the band releases with lyrics in German. This track is their first all German track with guest vocals from Hoffa of the band Faustan. The single acts as a sneak peak of what’s to come when their new EP comes out. The new EP will be thematically centered around a world of double-crossing agents during the cold war.

The spy thriller-themed track draws inspiration from the film “Atomic Blonde”, whose plot centers around a sensual yet savage spy on the verge of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Faustan is a new electro pop act based out of Miami and formed by Harry V. previously of Universal Latino signed act Formula Redux and Hoffa from underground Berlin band Flying 55.

“Atom Rot” is available on Spotify and all major digital platforms including Bandcamp.

About Deep Red

Deep Red was formed in 1996 by Martha A. Hoffmann also of Distorted Reality and DC Astro of Element 104. Shortly after, their song “Holy You” would be included in Cleopatra Records’ “The Goth Box”. That paved the way to appearances in a slew of other compilations in the US and abroad and eventually, being signed to Project Pitchfork’s label Candyland and a European tour with them.

The band released three albums and now after a long hiatus they are back to reclaim their place in the Darkwave musical realm.

]]> Crying Vessel to return with 2 albums in 2025 – 1st single out now https://www.side-line.com/crying-vessel-to-return-with-2-albums-in-2025-1st-single-out-now/ Wed, 14 Aug 2024 13:50:19 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=51111 Crying Vessel, the Swiss-American post-punk and darkwave duo, has made a return with the announcement...]]>

Crying Vessel, the Swiss-American post-punk and darkwave duo, has made a return with the announcement of not one, but two new albums after a two-year hiatus. These albums, titled “Sepulchers – The Servant” and “Sepulchers – The Maiden”, are set to be released in early 2025 under Cold Transmission Music. Each album contains 10 tracks.

“Sepulchers – The Servant” will offer Crying Vessel’s signature elegant synth-driven style, leaning into the more melodic and danceable aspects of their music. On the other hand, “Sepulchers – The Maiden” delves into darker, heavier soundscapes, reflecting the band’s recent explorations in more intense, moody territory.

The lead single from “The Servant”, titled “Falling In Love With A Ghost”, is out now. The accompanying music video was directed by Basil Oberli.

About Crying Vessel

Crying Vessel, a Swiss-American post-punk and darkwave duo, began as a solo project by Slade Templeton in 2010. Over time, it evolved into a full-fledged band with the addition of drummer Basil Oberli. Their sound is deeply influenced by the aesthetics of the 80s and 90s but with a modern twist.

They have released six albums, with their seventh, a double album titled “Sepulchers – The Servant” and “Sepulchers – The Maiden”, expected to release in early 2025. The band’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and the supernatural.

Their work has been released on several labels, including Manic Depression Records, Cleopatra Records, and Cold Transmission Music.

]]> Rosetta Stone presents new studio album ‘Under the Weather’ and releases title track as single – Out now https://www.side-line.com/rosetta-stone-presents-new-studio-album-under-the-weather-and-releases-title-track-as-single-out-now/ Thu, 08 Aug 2024 15:42:11 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=51004 The cult goth band Rosetta Stone returns this month with a new album on Cleopatra...]]>

The cult goth band Rosetta Stone returns this month with a new album on Cleopatra Records on August 30. It is 25 years since the group debuted with the EP “Darkness and Light” after having released five cassette tapes and having developed a loyal following around their hometown Liverpool.

Now they release “Under The Weather”, which will be Rosetta Stone’s seventh studio album, and their first since 2020’s “Cryptology”. The new full length will be out on CD and vinyl.

The band’s new single and video for the title track “Under the Weather” is released today.

About Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone emerged from the vibrant musical landscape of the late 1980s in the UK. Founded in 1988 by Porl King and Karl North, the band quickly garnered attention for their dark, atmospheric sound and compelling live performances.

Porl King, the creative force behind Rosetta Stone, played guitar and took on vocal duties, while Karl North handled the bass. The band’s lineup saw various changes over the years, but these two remained the core members during the formative period. Drawing inspiration from gothic pioneers like The Sisters of Mercy and The Mission, Rosetta Stone carved out a niche with their ethereal melodies and brooding lyrics.

Their debut album, “An Eye for the Main Chance”, was released in 1991. Throughout the 1990s, Rosetta Stone continued to evolve, experimenting with electronic elements and darker, more complex compositions. Their subsequent albums, “The Tyranny of Inaction” (1995) and “Chemical Emissions” (1998), reflected this progression.

Despite lineup changes and the shifting musical landscape, Rosetta Stone maintained a dedicated following. After a brief hiatus in the early 2000s, Porl King revived Rosetta Stone, releasing new material and performing live again.

In 2019, the band released “Seems Like Forever”, marking a return to their roots while embracing contemporary production techniques. It was followed by 2020’s “Cryptology”.

]]> Spahn Ranch sees reissue 1995 LP ‘The Coiled One’ – Out now https://www.side-line.com/spahn-ranch-sees-reissue-1995-lp-the-coiled-one-out-now/ Fri, 03 May 2024 19:14:20 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=49462 (Photo by Abby Laspia) Today, Cleopatra Records has reissued the Spahn Ranch album “The Coiled...]]>
Spahn Ranch sees reissue 1995 LP 'The Coiled One' - Out now

(Photo by Abby Laspia) Today, Cleopatra Records has reissued the Spahn Ranch album “The Coiled One”. “The Coiled One” by the Los Angeles-based electro-industrial act was originally released in 1995, and now comes with 8 bonus tracks that include album recording session outtakes that have previously never been released in any form.

The material on this reissue was digitally remastered by Jürgen Engler of Die Krupps and is now available for the first time on vinyl in a limited edition colored version that includes the original 10 songs, as well as a limited digipak “The Coiled One: Deluxe Edition” CD version (that contains the 8 bonus tracks). “The Coiled One” will also be available on all digital and streaming platforms.

Additionally, a seldom seen video created by a European fan for the song “Heretic’s Fork,” is now available once more.

“The Coiled One” was Spahn Ranch’s second studio album. Co-produced and engineered by Judson Leach, the album also included programming by Matt Green and Rob Morton, with vocals by Athan Maroulis (currently of NØIR).

About Spahn Ranch

Spahn Ranch was established in 1992 in Los Angeles by Matt Green and Rob Morton, his collaborator from New York. They pooled their savings to launch the band, having already worked together musically for the previous five years. That year, they inked a deal with Cleopatra Records and debuted with a self-titled EP featuring four tracks, with Scott “Chopper” Franklin—who would later join The Cramps as a bassist—on vocals. Franklin had left another band to join Spahn Ranch on vocals.

In 1993, Athan Maroulis joined Spahn Ranch as a vocalist, and the band recorded their first album, “Collateral Damage”. Maroulis had previously formed the New York-based group Fahrenheit 451 (1984–1986), with whom he recorded his first commercially available album. Over the ensuing years, Maroulis established himself in a number of alternative musical genres including gothic, industrial and electronic. Stints with the Philadelphia-based Executive Slacks (1987–1990), as well as Tubalcain (1991–1993), followed.

Spahn Ranch sees reissue 1995 LP 'The Coiled One' - Out now
Spahn Ranch

They released their second album, “The Coiled One”, in 1995 amidst Morton’s exit from the band over creative and logistical clashes. Following his departure, the lineup grew to include Christian Death’s drummer David Glass, Screams for Tina guitarist Kent Bancroft, and Tubalcain drummer Harry Lewis. This expansion ushered in a darker, more diverse electro-industrial sound that became Spahn Ranch’s hallmark. By 1997, the band had streamlined to a trio comprising Green, Maroulis, and Lewis.

Throughout the late 1990s, Spahn Ranch continued producing music. Their 1997 album “Architecture” featured contributions from Killing Joke/Prong bassist Paul Raven and Rockats/Nancy Sinatra guitarist Danny B. Harvey, taking a more experimental turn with the introduction of drum and bass, dub, and live guitar elements. “Beat Noir”, released in 1998, furthered this experimental direction and included collaborations with Bauhaus/Love & Rockets bassist David J. In 2000, the band released “Anthology 1992–1994”, a compilation including their first four releases and previously unreleased tracks.

Their final album, “Closure”, was recorded in 2000 and released in 2001.

In less than 8 years, Spahn Ranch completed a total of 5 studio albums, 4 EPs and performed more than 200 concerts in over a dozen countries before calling it a day in late 2000.

]]> Ships In The Night release all new video, ‘The Fire’ https://www.side-line.com/ships-in-the-night-release-all-new-video-the-fire/ Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:57:04 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=49178 Ethereal darkwave artist Ships In The Night has released a new video for “The Fire”....]]>

Ethereal darkwave artist Ships In The Night has released a new video for “The Fire”. “The Fire” is a track from Ships In The Night’s sophomore album, “Latent Powers”, released on Cleopatra Records. Ships In The Night is songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Alethea Leventhal who is based in New York City. She debuted in 2015 with the “Ships In The Night” EP.

Alethea explains: “The Fire is a meaningful song for me because it chronicles the lifelong struggle I’ve had with sleep. Insomnia and nightmares have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I wanted the music video for the song to illuminate some of the nightmares which seem to live in the collective unconscious- losing our teeth, showing up in public and realizing that you’re naked, being lost and confused in an old house that feels familiar yet scary. We all live different lives with so many different experiences, yet when we sleep our minds wander to similar, strange places.”

Below is the full album “Latent Powers” to check out.

]]> Neon Funeral – Banned From The Goth Club (EP – Cleopatra Records) https://www.side-line.com/neon-funeral-banned-from-the-goth-club-ep-cleopatra-records/ Sat, 02 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=48549 Genre/Influences: Dark-Wave, Post-Punk. Format: Digital, Cassette. Background/Info: This must be the second EP by American...]]>

Genre/Influences: Dark-Wave, Post-Punk.

Format: Digital, Cassette.

Background/Info: This must be the second EP by American formation Neon Funeral. The title of the work is inspired by the band’s sound which is ‘hard to label’ and not Goth enough for Goth clubs but too Goth for Rock addicts.

Content: The sound indeed isn’t typically Goth or Industrial or Rock but simply bringing different influences together; a perfect fusion between guitar and electronics with harsh vocals on top.

+ + + : The least I can say is that this band strives for a very own sound identity. It doesn’t sound new but is a cool offspring between different, related, influences. I especially like both debut cuts for their power and balance between guitar and electronics.

– – – : I regret the work is only featuring 4 songs. The vocals are very harsh and maybe a bit too saturated. The last cut is more dreamy and melodic which doesn’t sound like the band’s best side.

Conclusion: Hard to label but easy to enjoy!

Best songs: “Avolition”, “High Tech Low Life”.

Rate: 7.

Artist: www.facebook.com/neonfuneralband

Label: www.cleopatrarecords.com / www.facebook.com/CleopatraRecords

]]> Deep Red releases ‘Run (Jet Set Giallo Remix)’ single – Out now https://www.side-line.com/deep-red-releases-run-jet-set-giallo-remix-single-out-now/ Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:08:11 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=48213 Deep Red has released a new version of their latest single “Run” in a Jet...]]>

Deep Red has released a new version of their latest single “Run” in a Jet Set Giallo remix. The main theme behind Deep Red’s latest track is what happens when the hunter becomes the prey, and the victim becomes the aggressor.

The original was released on January 26th and mixes electro-industrial and post-punk. This remix adds a darker edge and an extra punch to the original version. The new remix is available on Spotify and all major digital platforms including Bandcamp.

Deep Red was formed in 1996 by Martha A. Hoffmann also of Distorted Reality and DC Astro of Element 104. Shortly after, their song “Holy You” would be included in Cleopatra Records’ “The Goth Box”, and this paved the way to appearances in a slew of other compilations in the US and abroad (including on our very own “Venussa XX” compilation which we released in 2001 via Triton Records).

The band in the end got signed to Project Pitchfork’s label and embarked on a European tour with them. The band released 3 albums in total plus 1 EP and has since 2023 been releasing various singles.

]]> Deep Red presents first new single of the year: ‘Run’ https://www.side-line.com/deep-red-presents-first-new-single-of-the-year-run/ Fri, 26 Jan 2024 16:39:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=48030 What happens when the hunter becomes the prey, and the victim becomes the aggressor? That’s...]]>

What happens when the hunter becomes the prey, and the victim becomes the aggressor? That’s indeed the main theme behind the newest single “Run” by Deep Red. The single, which is available now, offers a mix of electro-industrial and post-punk ingredients.

A darker, more aggressive remix of “Run” will be coming out on February 9, 2024.

Deep Red was formed in 1996 by Martha A. Hoffmann also of Distorted Reality and DC Astro of Element 104. Shortly after, their song “Holy You” would be included in Cleopatra Records’ “The Goth Box”. That paved the way to appearances in a slew of other compilations in the US and abroad (including also on our own sold out “Venusa XX” 2CD compilation from 2001 with the track “Spirits of the Past”) and eventually, being signed to Project Pitchfork‘s Candyland label and a European tour with them. The band released 3 albums and now after a long hiatus has returned.

]]> Night Nail launches brand new video for ‘Cracks In My Heart’ with Luna De La Torre on vocals https://www.side-line.com/night-nail-launches-brand-new-video-for-cracks-in-my-heart-with-luna-de-la-torre-on-vocals/ Thu, 18 Jan 2024 09:01:09 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=47908 Berlin’s Night Nail has just released their latest video for the ballad “Cracks In My...]]>

Berlin’s Night Nail has just released their latest video for the ballad “Cracks In My Heart”, that features Luna De La Torre.

“Cracks In My Heart” is taken from the album “Fates Explained” which was co-produced, mixed, and mastered by Pete Burns (Kill Shelter) with additional contributions by Valentina Veil (VV & the Void), Justin Deactivere and Ilija Gavrilenko. The album “Fates Explained” is available from Metropolis Records on CD, limited edition colored vinyl and on all digital and streaming platforms since mid-November 2023.

The darkwave band Night Nail formed in 2013 in Los Angeles, CA. After Night Nail moved to Berlin, Germany in April, 2018, “LA Demons” was released on Cleopatra Records and their second album “March To Autumn” was released in Oct, 2020 on Cold Transmission.

Here’s the video for “Cracks In My Heart”.

You can check out the full album below.

]]> Neon Funeral offer darkwave / post-punk EP ‘Banned From The Goth Club’ – Out now https://www.side-line.com/neon-funeral-offer-darkwave-post-punk-ep-banned-from-the-goth-club-out-now/ Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:04:49 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=46634 New Jersey-based darkwave/post-punk band, Neon Funeral has just unleashed their new EP, “Banned From The...]]>

New Jersey-based darkwave/post-punk band, Neon Funeral has just unleashed their new EP, “Banned From The Goth Club” courtesy of Cleopatra Records. Neon Funeral is a darkwave/post-punk band with hardcore screamo/metal vocals “in the spirit of an angst-driven Ian Curtis” as the band puts it.

The EP’s theme is based upon the band feeling alienated from the goth scene. The name of the EP, “Banned From The Goth Club” was given because of the band’s challenge in finding their audience given their contradictory sound.

The band states, “The goth audience can’t exactly get fully immersed into the music because of the aggression and intensity of the vocals and the hardcore scene can’t exactly understand the softer and dance-driven instrumentals for moshing. We once performed at a goth venue and seemed out of place and out of touch with the audience. We then coined the phrase “Banned From The Goth Club” to welcome the eclectic sound and introduce it playfully.”

“Banned From The Goth Club” features a diverse range of emotional undercurrents in its songs. “Avolition” stands out with its rapid tempo and dance-centric vibe. In contrast, “High Tech Low Life” adopts a more contemplative and slower pace, culminating in a fusion of intense electronic beats and metal vocals. “A Void” delves into introspection, exploring themes of nihilism, drug addiction, and societal pressures. The EP concludes with a unique rendition of Eddie Murphy’s 1980s hit, “Party All The Time”.

The video for “Avolition” was filmed at a local vintage arcade and bar that the band felt would match their aesthetic well.

“Banned From The Goth Club” is available on all major digital outlets including Bandcamp.

]]> Kill Shelter announces special 5th anniversary reissue of ‘Damage’ and video https://www.side-line.com/kill-shelter-announces-special-5th-anniversary-reissue-of-damage-and-video/ Fri, 03 Nov 2023 12:49:01 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=46399 Ahead of the forthcoming limited edition 5th anniversary release of “Damage”, Kill Shelter has launched...]]>

Ahead of the forthcoming limited edition 5th anniversary release of “Damage”, Kill Shelter has launched an official video for “In Decay [ V ]” featuring Antipole and Delphine Coma. The new version is taken from the “Damage [ V ]” CD which features new versions and remastered tracks.

The original debut CD release was launched in November 2018. Released again on Unknown Pleasures Records, “Damage [ V ]” features vocal contributions and collaborations from a host of global underground artists including; Hante. (FR), Buzz Kull (AUS), Delphine Coma (US), Antipole (NOR), undertheskin (PL), Killjoi (US), The Shyness of Strangers (CA), Iamtheshadow (PT), Ultrviolence (CA), New Haunts (UK) and Bragolin (NL).

“Damage [ V ]” is slated for release on 1st December 2023 with pre-orders starting on 27th October 2023.

Below is the official video for “In Decay [ V ]” featuring Antipole and Delphine Coma.

Kill Shelter is UK based alternative artist and producer Pete Burns. His work blends elements of darkwave and contemporary electronica with processed guitars.

His debut album “Damage” (2018) was originally released by Unknown Pleasures Records. This was followed up by the 2021 release, “A Haunted Place” with Antipole. His 2022 release “Asylum” is currently available via Metropolis Records and Manic Depression Records. In 2023 Kill Shelter released “The Sex Tape Sessions” EP and VHS with Death Loves Veronica on Cold Transmission.

Following a series of remixes including She Past Away’s “Soluk” for their tenth anniversary release “X” on Metropolis and Fabrika Records, The Wake’s “Emily Closer” and “Spectre (Love is Dead)” by Christian Death on Cleopatra Records amongst many others, Kill Shelter is currently working on new material.

]]> Deep Red is back with a new single ‘The Art of Lust’ – out now https://www.side-line.com/deep-red-is-back-with-a-new-single-the-art-of-lust-out-now/ Tue, 31 Oct 2023 09:50:12 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=46294 The Miami, Florida-based electro act Deep Red is back with an all new single, “The...]]>

The Miami, Florida-based electro act Deep Red is back with an all new single, “The Art of Lust”. The inspiration for the theme around this track was loosely based on the Stanley Kubrick movie “Eyes Wide Shut”.

The movie has a lot of recurring themes that inspired the band’s musical direction including mystery, secret societies and of course lust. “We often draw inspiration from all kinds of films and when we started to work on this song, it immediately gave us the feeling of this erotic thriller,” so the band’s adds.

Deep Red was formed in 1996 by Martha A. Hoffmann also of Distorted Reality and DC Astro of Element 104. Shortly after, their song “Holy You” would be included in Cleopatra Records’ “The Goth Box”. That paved the way to appearances in a slew of other compilations in the US and abroad (including also on our own sold out “Venusa XX” 2CD compilation from 2001 with the track “Spirits of the Past”) and eventually, being signed to Project Pitchfork‘s Candyland label and a European tour with them. The band released 3 albums and now after a long hiatus has returned.

The Art of Lust is available on Spotify and all major digital platforms including Bandcamp.

]]> Swedish dark synth act Priest next one in covering Rammstein – Check their version of ‘Engel’ https://www.side-line.com/swedish-dark-synth-act-priest-next-one-in-covering-rammstein-check-their-version-of-engel/ Thu, 17 Aug 2023 13:56:44 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=44383 Next to Laibach we also offer you Priest’s version of Rammstein’s “Engel” today, both of...]]>

Next to Laibach we also offer you Priest’s version of Rammstein’s “Engel” today, both of which will be feautred on the upcoming “A Tribute To Rammstein” compilation out soon via Cleopatra Records.

Rammstein’s “Engel” was released in April 1997 as the first single from their second album, “Sehnsucht”, along with a music video inspired by the 1996 Quentin Tarantino film, “From Dusk Till Dawn”. “Engel” made its own on-screen debut during the closing credits of November 1997’s “Mortal Kombat: Annihilation”. An English version of “Engel” can be found on US special editions of “Sehnsucht”.

The female part of song’s chorus in Rammstein’s own version is sung by Christiane “Bobo” Hebold of the German pop band Bobo in White Wooden Houses. Priest’s version features female vocalist (and the band’s visual artist) Greta Helling.

But let’s first check the new version by Priest.

]]> Laibach releases Rammstein rendition of ‘Amerika’ from forthcoming tribute album https://www.side-line.com/laibach-releases-rammstein-rendition-of-amerika-from-forthcoming-tribute-album/ Thu, 17 Aug 2023 13:16:33 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=44377 The Slovenian band Laibach is set to release their cover of Rammstein’s satirical song “Amerika”...]]>

The Slovenian band Laibach is set to release their cover of Rammstein’s satirical song “Amerika” for the upcoming “A Tribute To Rammstein” album. This album is due for release through Cleopatra Records on 25th August.

“Amerika” was originally released by Rammstein on 6th September 2004 as the second single from their fourth studio album, “Reise Reise” (2004). The band describes the song as a satirical commentary on ‘Cocacolonisation’, addressing what it called “the global cultural and political influence of the United States of America”.

Below, you can find Laibach’s cover version of the song.

The song’s lyrics, alongside most of the video imagery, offer a clear critique of America’s cultural imperialism, political propaganda, and perceived role as the world’s police force. The song features two verses sung in German and a chorus in Denglisch, such as: “We’re all living in Amerika, Amerika ist wunderbar, We’re all living in Amerika, Amerika, Amerika…”

The music video for the original track portrays the band in Apollo-era spacesuits on the Moon, intercut with scenes of various cultures adopting stereotypical American behaviours. This includes scenes of Africans eating pizza and sending Christmas wishes to Santa Claus, Buddhist monks enjoying hamburgers, and various global communities engaging in recognisably American activities. Near the video’s end, diverse ethnic groups are seen singing and dancing along.

As the video concludes, it is revealed that the band has been on a fake moon set in a studio, complete with a film crew, which appears to nod to Moon landing conspiracy theories. Lead singer Till Lindemann is seen wearing a spacesuit with the name “Armstrong” on it, referencing astronaut Neil Armstrong. The video concludes with a photograph of the band left on the moon’s surface and plays a recording of Jack Swigert’s famous quote: “Houston, we’ve had a problem here.”

]]> Witchy goth pop act Metamorph returns with new single and video: ‘Woo Woo’ https://www.side-line.com/witchy-goth-pop-act-metamorph-returns-with-new-single-and-video-woo-woo/ Thu, 17 Aug 2023 08:49:42 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=44362 Gothic pop artist with a witchy flair, Metamorph, is back with a brand-new single titled...]]>

Gothic pop artist with a witchy flair, Metamorph, is back with a brand-new single titled “Woo Woo”. Accompanying this release is a music video that showcases Metamorph’s Margot Day, who was formerly a member of the iconic 80s NYC Goth band, The Plague. The musical arrangement for “Woo Woo” was crafted by Erik Gustafson (Cleopatra Records and Adoration Destroyed).

Margot Day provides insight into the track, explaining: “We narrate a story set in a tense and precarious world, where the sky seems to be collapsing and cats observe the unfolding drama with eerie fascination. In the midst of the turmoil, there emerges a longing for escape. ‘Woo Woo’ invites listeners on a turbulent journey, where medical cautions fade into a faint backdrop. The smoke from hillside fires trails the Witch character, and desires ignite with the intensity of a fervent dance. Infused with a touch of ‘abracadabra’ enchantment, the chorus reveals a deep craving for an unparalleled euphoria, seasoned with a hint of mystical ‘woo woo’, fusing elements of the bewitching and the sensual.”

“Woo Woo” is now available on all major digital music platforms.

The video for this new single is available for viewing below.

]]> Industrial rock band Unhappily Ever Now drops Rabbit Junk remix of ‘Pleading’ https://www.side-line.com/industrial-rock-band-unhappily-ever-now-drops-rabbit-junk-remix-of-pleading/ Tue, 01 Aug 2023 08:50:17 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=44123 Out now is the new Unhappily Ever Now single “Pleading (The Haunting Of Scars)” in...]]>

Out now is the new Unhappily Ever Now single “Pleading (The Haunting Of Scars)” in a Rabbit Junk remix. The Rabbit Junk Remix includes a collaboration with JP Anderson from Rabbit Junk and offers a danceable gothwave vibe.

Unhappily Ever Now is composed of Cleopatra Records (Green Jelly) songwriter Stephen Watson (lead performer and songwriter) and Maria V (vocals, lyrics, and melodies).

“Pleading” was their first new single for the project since their 2021 self-titled debut EP. Below is the video for the remix. Stephen Watson explains that “Pleading (The Haunting of Scars)” explores “the self-doubt experienced when personal growth comes from great loss and trauma, dark, gritty, melodic and emotional, yet unique.”

]]> Dark wave industrial act Synical releases 5th album ‘This Will All Happen Again’ today https://www.side-line.com/dark-wave-industrial-act-synical-releases-their-5th-album-this-will-all-happen-again-today/ Fri, 21 Jul 2023 18:58:42 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43916 Synical, the dark wave industrial act, is set to release their fifth album, ‘This Will...]]>

Synical, the dark wave industrial act, is set to release their fifth album, ‘This Will All Happen Again’, today on Cleopatra Records. The album promises a unique blend of goth, dark-wave, and post-punk genres.

Based in Los Angeles, California, Synical draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Depeche Mode, New Order, The Cure, Prince, Joy Division, and Kraftwerk.

A string of collaborations on new album with members from Bauhaus, Love and Rockets, …

Synical was founded in 1989 by singer/songwriter, producer, and engineer, Brian Haught, after his departure from the electronic funk band AC Black, which was signed to Motown Records. Since its inception, Synical has evolved significantly, featuring a variety of band members and transitioning through numerous sounds over the years. What started as a solo act for Brian eventually expanded into a duo, then a trio, and finally a full five-piece band.

For their latest album, Brian Haught split his time between LA and Atlanta, writing new songs and recording in both cities. Collaborating with David Black, Jimi Echo, Eric Griffin (Muderdolls), and former Synical drummer Cheney Brannon (Collective Soul), the band also welcomed Noel Page during the recording sessions.

Over the years, Synical has collaborated with a host of musicians, including John Fryer (NIN, Love & Rockets, Depeche Mode), Ivan De Prume (White Zombie), Roy Mayorga (Ministry, SoulFly, Stone Sour), Alex Carapetis (NIN, Julian Casablancas), Robin Finck (NIN, Guns N’ Roses), Cheney Brannon (Collective Soul), and Racci Shay Hart (Dope).

The new 10-track album features guest appearances from members of Bauhaus, Love and Rockets, My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult, Mary My Hope, Faster Pussycat, Genitorturers, and Murderdolls.

Guns N’ Roses demos for “Chinese Democracy”

In the late nineties, Brian Haught collaborated with Robin Finck (Nine Inch Nails/Guns N’ Roses Guitarist) on some of the Guns N’ Roses album demos for “Chinese Democracy”. This collaboration led to the recruitment of new band members to continue his vision for Synical. Joined by guitarist Eric Griffin, bassist Brent Ashley, and Ben Graves, they released their third album “Synical Forever” in 2004 and their fourth “Quit While You’re Behind” in 2012. Following a tumultuous tour of Italy, Brian decided to further reconstruct and update Synical’s members, leading to the current lineup.

]]> Australian darkwave act Ikon compiles early years on ‘The Complete Recordings 1992-1996’, out via Cleopatra Records https://www.side-line.com/australian-darkwave-act-ikon-compiles-early-years-on-the-complete-recordings-1992-1996-out-via-cleopatra-records/ Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:26:16 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43506 Out now is “The Complete Recordings 1992-1996” by Australian darkwave / goth act Ikon. The...]]>

Out now is “The Complete Recordings 1992-1996” by Australian darkwave / goth act Ikon.

The release turns out to be a four-CD anthology, cataloging their beginnings as a young band, after emerging from the ashes of previous project, Death In The Dark. The set includes their first EP, “The Echoes of Silence”, recorded at Melbourne’s Studio 52 in June 1993, followed by two full-length albums, “In The Shadow of the Angel” (1994) and “Flowers for the Gathering” (1996).

Added as a bonus, and this is a real gem, is “Rarities”, a gathering of rare gems, which includes a variety of mixes, alternate versions, and re-records.

Frontman Chris McCarter and bassist Dino Molinaro began writing songs together as high school students in 1988 already creating an own sound infused with elements of Joy Division, early New Order, and a touch of Death In June.

Here’s what that 4th disc includes:

  1. Condemnation (7″ Re-Record)
  2. Under The Watchful Eye (Version 2)
  3. So Far Away (1994 Re-Record)
  4. Still Remains (Version 1)
  5. Still Remains (Version 2)
  6. Somewhere Else (In Passing)
  7. Sleepless (Draconian Mix)
  8. In Trust I Return (Acoustic Version)
  9. Somewhere Else (Acoustic Version)
  10. Inbetween (Version 3)
  11. Your Obsession
  12. Solitude
  13. We Walk Alone
  14. Visions
  15. The Awakening
  16. Behind Closed Doors
  17. A Hollow Man
  18. The Disappeared
  19. The Final Experience
]]> The dark electronic band Deep Red is finally back and alive and kicking with an all new single: ‘Battle Lines’ https://www.side-line.com/the-dark-electronic-band-deep-red-is-finally-back-and-alive-and-kicking-with-an-all-new-single-battle-lines/ Fri, 09 Jun 2023 17:47:16 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43358 Deep Red was formed in 1996 by Martha A. Hoffmann also of Distorted Reality and...]]>

Deep Red was formed in 1996 by Martha A. Hoffmann also of Distorted Reality and DC Astro of Element 104. Shortly after, their song “Holy You” would be included in Cleopatra Records’ “The Goth Box”, and this paved the way to appearances in a slew of other compilations in the US and abroad (including in our very own “Venussa XX” compilation which we released in 2001 via Triton Records).

The band in the end got signed to Project Pitchfork’s label and embarked on a European tour with them. The band released 3 albums in total plus 1 EP.

And behold, we now got the news that the legendary dark electronic band Deep Red has announced its comeback. It’s been a whopping 20 years since the band’s last release, “Chimera”, was released. The duo has now returned with the single “Battle Lines”, a collaboration with the band Element 104.

The band is currently working on a slew of new material to be released later this year. “Battle Lines” is available on Spotify and all major digital platforms including Bandcamp.

Here’s the video for “Battle Lines”.

]]> Dark electronic artist Slighter presents new single ‘Have No Fear’ https://www.side-line.com/dark-electronic-artist-slighter-presents-new-single-have-no-fear/ Tue, 30 May 2023 08:15:20 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43241 (Photo by RA Desilets) US dark electronic artist Slighter, who we have reviewed several times...]]>

(Photo by RA Desilets) US dark electronic artist Slighter, who we have reviewed several times on Side-Line, presents an all new single “Have No Fear”, which is out now via Confusion Inc.. This is the first taste of his full-length album “This Futile Engine”, due out on July 21 via Brutal Resonance Records.

The single comes backed by the B-side ‘Dark Rave Mix’ of the title track. The accompanying video which you can view below was created by Psyklon Industries.

Colin C., the main force behind this project, explains the track as follows: “‘Have No Fear’ is a song that took a while to come together, but it was actually one of the first ideas I had for the new Slighter album. Coming off of my last album ‘V O I D’ (released in 2021), I wanted to break away from that creative vein I was tapping then, but still have some catharsis in the songwriting.” And he adds: “The ‘Have No Fear’ recording sessions were all hardware synth jams, very organic moments that shaped my direction for the whole new record. But it took awhile to find the voice for it, the lyrics are intentionally personal but there’s some universality to reminding oneself that fear is a choice to make.”

Slighter is the solo moniker of Colin C. (Colin Cameron Allrich) who was previously involved in collaborations for various Metropolis Records releases and Cleopatra Records compilations, in addition to Slighter releases via his own Confusion Inc. imprint.

The full-length album “This Futile Engine” was mixed and mastered at The Cell Studio and features 13 tracks and holds collaborations with Steven Seibold of Hate Dept, Yvette Winkler of Vaselyne, Craig Joseph Huxtable of Landscape Body Machine, Morgue VVitch, Deep Dark Water and more.

“This Futile Engine” will be released, both as a deluxe edition CD and digitally, on July 21.

]]> Industrial rock band Unhappily Ever Now announces first new single since 2021 self-titled debut EP: ‘Pleading (The Haunting of Scars)’ https://www.side-line.com/industrial-rock-band-unhappily-ever-now-announces-first-new-single-since-2021-self-titled-debut-ep-pleading-the-haunting-of-scars/ Tue, 09 May 2023 08:15:47 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=42960 The industrial rock band, Unhappily Ever Now has just announced their first new single, “Pleading...]]>

The industrial rock band, Unhappily Ever Now has just announced their first new single, “Pleading (The Haunting of Scars)”, since their 2021 self-titled debut EP. Unhappily Ever Now is available on all major streaming platforms including Bandcamp.

Unhappily Ever Now is composed of songwriter, Stephen Watson (Cleopatra Records, Green Jelly), lead performer and songwriter, Maria V (vocals, lyrics, and melodies) and drummer, Dan Milligan. The release was mixed and mastered by Joy Thieves Productions.

Stephen Watson explains that “Pleading (The Haunting of Scars)” explores “the self-doubt experienced when personal growth comes from great loss and trauma. Dark, gritty, melodic and emotional, yet unique.” Forthcoming remixes of the single include collaborations with JP Anderson of Rabbit Junk and Walter Flakus of Stabbing Westward.

The video that accompanies the single release was produced and directed by Joel Lopez of Lumbra Productions and filmed onsite predominantly at Haunted White Hill Mansion in New Jersey.

]]> Industrial rock band Unhappily Ever Now announce brand new single ‘Pleading (The Haunting of Scars)’ https://www.side-line.com/industrial-rock-band-unhappily-ever-now-announce-brand-new-single-pleading-the-haunting-of-scars/ Tue, 02 May 2023 08:24:15 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=42784 The industrial rock band Unhappily Ever Now has just announced their first new single since...]]>

The industrial rock band Unhappily Ever Now has just announced their first new single since their 2021 self-titled debut EP. “Pleading (The Haunting of Scars)” explores the self-doubt experienced when personal growth comes from great loss and trauma. The material was mixed and mastered by Joy Thieves Productions.

Unhappily Ever Now is composed of songwriter, Stephen Watson (Cleopatra Records, Green Jelly), lead performer and songwriter, Maria V (vocals, lyrics, and melodies) and drummer, Dan Milligan.

Forthcoming remixes of the single include collaborations with JP Anderson of Rabbit Junk and Walter Flakus of Stabbing Westward.

The video that accompanies the single release was produced and directed by Joel Lopez of Lumbra Productions and filmed onsite predominantly at Haunted White Hill Mansion in New Jersey.

]]> NIN’s Trent Reznor re-surfaces on deluxe vinyl reissue of 1990 debut album Pigface https://www.side-line.com/nins-trent-reznor-re-surfaces-on-deluxe-vinyl-reissue-of-1990-debut-album-pigface/ Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:07:28 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41918 After parting ways with the post-punk powerhouse Public Image Ltd. in 1985, drummer Martin Atkins...]]>

After parting ways with the post-punk powerhouse Public Image Ltd. in 1985, drummer Martin Atkins found himself in high demand, collaborating with numerous bands such as NIN, Killing Joke, and notably, William Rieflin of Revolting Cocks and Ministry. Together, Rieflin and Atkins embarked on their most ambitious project to date: an industrial music supergroup called Pigface, bringing together the talents of their various associates.

In 1990, Pigface released their debut album “Gub,” which includes the original version of “Suck” featuring Trent Reznor. Reznor later re-recorded this track for the 1992 NIN EP “Broken.” With contributions from artists such as Chris Connelly of Revolting Cocks, David Yow of The Jesus Lizard, Nivek Ogre of Skinny Puppy, Paul Barker of Ministry, En Esch of KMFDM, and Steve Albini, “Gub” has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most daring sound recordings ever created.

Atkins reflects on the album, saying, “This was such a liberating time—bringing together this extraordinary group of musicians and not worrying about the outcome (although, of course, we did). We had the luxury of working in the legendary Chicago Trax studios with the talented Steve Albini to capture and convey it all. It’s fascinating to think that Trent’s involvement was even a topic of debate—NIN wasn’t well-known yet, and some suggested we could save $150 on a round-trip airfare from Cleveland by not involving him. I vetoed the idea. Bill Rieflin and I came up with the concept for the project during warm-ups for Ministry’s cage tour, and the immense contribution of Francesca Sundsten’s iconic artwork to the project cannot be overstated.”

The album is now receiving a deluxe reissue from Cleopatra Records, showcasing Francesca Sundsten’s restored artwork and a gatefold image of Pigface’s original promotional picture, assembled by Chris Connelly. This reissue also offers bonus remixes and extra track versions for the first time in a single release. The CD edition comes in a premium digipak, while the vinyl version is available in an array of colors.

The tracklist:

  1. Tapeworm with Steve Albini
  2. The Bushmaster with Trent Reznor & David Yow
  3. Cylinder Head World
  4. Point Blank with Steve Albini, Chris Connelly
  5. Suck with Trent Reznor & Paul Barker
  6. Symphony For Taps
  7. The Greenhouse with Chris Connelly
  8. Little Sisters with Chris Connelly, William Tucker
  9. Tailor Made with Steve Albini, Paul Barker
  10. War Ich Nicht Immer Ein Gutter Junge? War Ich Nicht Immer Schoen Und Nett? Ich Zerpfluckte Niemals Eine Spinne-War Neimals Frech Und Stahl with En Esch
  11. Blood and Sand with Chris Connelly, Matt Schultz
  12. Weightless with Chris Connelly
  13. Tonight’s The Night (Little Sisters Remix)
  14. Winnebago (Induced Tapeworm Remix) with Nivek Ogre
  15. The Bushmaster (Bushmaster Remix)
  16. War Ich Nicht Immer Ein Gutter Junge? War Ich Nicht Immer Schoen Und Nett? Ich Zerpfluckte Niemals Eine Spinne-War Neimals Frech Und Stahl (Remix)
  17. Suck (VX Remix)
  18. Suck (Reverse Sitar Mix)
]]> Industrial metal act DK-Zero offers Valentine’s Day single ‘Nightmare’ https://www.side-line.com/industrial-metal-act-dk-zero-offers-valentines-day-single-nightmare/ Tue, 14 Feb 2023 16:10:40 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41341 Seattle-based industrial metal outfit DK-Zero have just released a brand new single, “Nightmare”, which is...]]>
Industrial metal act DK-Zero offer Valentine’s Day single 'Nightmare'

Seattle-based industrial metal outfit DK-Zero have just released a brand new single, “Nightmare”, which is released today on all digital platforms via Cleopatra Records. The band also teamed up once again with Industrialism Films to create a video to accompany the track.

In a reaction the band calls the song “at its heart, a twisted love song for the cyber age, one that celebrates the special kind of visceral, carnal passion of colliding opposites – in other words, the perfect DK-Zero Valentine’s Day song!”

The project returned in September 2022 with the single / video “Resistance” after two years of silence since 2020’s “Cyber Sex Inc.”.

Here’s the new video.

]]> Electro wave act Priest (feat. former members of Ghost) covers Depeche Mode’s ‘Personal Jesus’ https://www.side-line.com/electro-wave-act-priest-feat-former-members-of-ghost-covers-depeche-modes-personal-jesus/ Fri, 27 Jan 2023 09:29:55 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=40950 Following up on their first ever US tour last October in support of their studio...]]>
Electro wave act Priest (feat. former members of Ghost) covers Depeche Mode's 'Personal Jesus'

Following up on their first ever US tour last October in support of their studio album “Body Machine”, the dark wave act Priest are back with a brand-new single, a cover of Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus”, on Cleopatra Records.

The band explains the choice for the cover as follows: “‘Personal Jesus’ is one of those timeless tracks that seem to always have been there. When we got the chance to cover a Depeche Mode song we got a bit sweaty – how should you even approach it? We took away the guitar, most iconic part of the song and replaced it with a Moog synthesizer! It resulted in a more gritty, hard hitting version. This is a homage to the band I think have influenced us the most.”

Priest’s cover is the first song to be released from the forthcoming (March 17) Depeche Mode tribute album, “All I Ever Wanted – A Tribute To Depeche Mode”, which will feature tracks covered by Lebanon Hanover, Skold, Xiu Xiu, The Kvb and more.

]]> Darkwave act Neon Funeral launch all new video / single ‘A Void’ https://www.side-line.com/darkwave-act-neon-funeral-launch-all-new-video-single-a-void/ Thu, 08 Dec 2022 19:19:15 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=40098 Darkwave band Neon Funeral recently launched their new single /video “A Void”. This marks the...]]>
Darkwave act Neon Funeral launch all new video / single 'A Void'

Darkwave band Neon Funeral recently launched their new single /video “A Void”. This marks the band’s second release through Cleopatra Records following 2021’s cover of “Party All the Time”.

In a reaction the band explains the concept behind the track: “The song deals with escaping a life of drugs and societal pressures; avoiding it but not wanting to talk about it. It’s about someone being tortured by their addictions and demons.”

The video concept for “A Void” was one that finds the band’s front man, Randy waking up while experiencing hallucinations of a dark cult-like figure. He then joins a strange cult doing strange rituals while initiating other members unwillingly. The video opens questions of societal pressures and about not being able to escape one’s mind and the darker paths of life.

Hailing from Jersey City, New Jersey, and pioneering the hardcore darkwave genre, Neon Funeral is based on electronics supported by dynamic guitar and basslines with classic melodies of 80’s synth-wave accompanied by vocals closer to industrial, alternative, and metal.

Here’s the video for “A Void”.

]]> English post-punk/gothic rock act The March Violets reunite and release 5 CD boxset https://www.side-line.com/english-post-punk-gothic-rock-act-the-march-violets-reunite-and-release-5-cd-boxset/ Thu, 20 Oct 2022 08:00:14 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=39310 (Photo by Al Pulford) On the eve of the release of a 5CD retrospective box...]]>
English post-punk/gothic rock act The March Violets reunite and release 5 CD boxset

(Photo by Al Pulford) On the eve of the release of a 5CD retrospective box set, Leeds based English post-punk/gothic rock act The March Violets have announced a reunion. They plan to tour and make new recordings through 2023-2024. Here’s what they just announced: “Founder-members Rosie Garland and Tom Ashton are joined again by William Faith (musician and vocalist with Faith & the Muse, Conflict and The Bellwether Syndicate) and we are excited to be back in the studio creating brand new material & planning live dates for 2023- 2024.”

A digital single of “Walk into the Sun” (the 7″ version) – out now – will be followed by the 2LP vinyl “Play Loud Play Purple” which compiles all their 1980’s releases and more – on purple vinyl. Next is the 2LP vinyl “Big Soul Kiss” holding 23 BBC session tracks with 9 unreleased songs, on yellow vinyl. And finally there’s the 5CD box set with all their indie releases, the BBC Sessions and two discs of unreleased rarities.

About The March Violets

The March Violets formed in December 1981 with the following line-up: Tom Ashton (guitar), Laurence “Loz” Elliot (bass), Simon “Detroit” Denbigh (vocals) and Rosie Garland (vocals). Percussion was provided by a drum machine, nicknamed “Dr. Rhythm”, a feature they had in common with many of the bands in the Leeds scene at the time. Fellow student Andrew Eldritch, lead singer of the Sisters of Mercy, released the band’s debut 7″, the four-track “Religious as Hell” EP, on his Merciful Release label on 28 August 1982. A second single on Merciful Release, “Grooving in Green”, followed on 27 November 1982.

The band then established their own Rebirth record label, releasing the “Crow Baby” single on 30 April 1983. Cleo Murray joined as second female vocalist for the next single, “Snake Dance”, issued in December 1983. Garland left after “Snake Dance”, and Murray took over as sole female singer for “Walk Into the Sun”, issued 4 August 1984. That October, the band released their first compilation album, “Natural History”, which collected the first four singles plus two tracks from a 1983 BBC Peel Session.

The March Violets shifted towards a more pop-oriented sound, and Denbigh left the band in early February 1985, prior to the band’s first American tour in March 1985. Denbigh did appear on the next single, “Deep”, released 11 May 1985 but that was recorded prior to his departure. A second compilation album, “Electric Shades”, was issued in the US by Relativity Records that year; it collected the contents of the “Snake Dance”, “Walk Into the Sun” and “Deep” singles, including a piano-laden remix of “Snake Dance”.

The band then signed to major label London Records, adding drummer Andy Tolson to the lineup. The “Turn to the Sky” single was released 24 February 1986 on London, although still bearing the Rebirth imprint. The song (and their cover of “Miss Amanda Jones” by the Rolling Stones) was featured on the soundtrack to the 1987 film “Some Kind of Wonderful”, which included a live performance by the band of “Turn to the Sky.” Although groomed for greater success, it didn’t work out as planned and only one single came out.

In 1993, the band’s first CD compilation, The Botanic Verses, was released by Jungle Records in the UK and Cleopatra Records in the US; it covered their entire 1982-1984 catalogue.

The band reformed 25 years later, successfully touring the UK, USA and Europe and making new recordings through Pledge Music. However, illness twice beset that phase and it ended in 2016.

]]> Robert Marlow passes after a short and unexpected illness https://www.side-line.com/r-i-p-robert-marlow-singer-musician-is-no-more/ Sat, 24 Sep 2022 15:02:53 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=38846 (Photo by Reset Records) The English musician and singer Robert Marlow (real name Robert Allen)...]]>
R.I.P. Robert Marlow, singer/musician is no more

(Photo by Reset Records) The English musician and singer Robert Marlow (real name Robert Allen) is no more. Marlow passed away on Thursday 22nd September after a short and unexpected illness. The news was communicated by a close friend of Marlow on Facebook. He would have turned 61 on October 21st.

About Robert Marlow

Robert Marlow was an English synth-pop singer, songwriter and musician and grew up in Basildon together with future Depeche Mode members Vince Clarke, Martin Gore and the late Andy Fletcher. But there’s more, he was also tied to Alison Moyet, with whom he played in a band, the Vandals. He ended up playing in a band, with Vince Clarke, called the Plan, and later French Look, with Martin Gore and Paul Redmond.

In 1983 Marlow formed The Peter Pan Effect. The project initially was born when Marlow was in a band called Film Noir, with future keyboardist and guitarist for the Cure, Perry Bamonte. After Clarke left Depeche Mode, Marlow approached Clarke and secured some studio time at Blackwing Studios with him and Eric Radcliffe. He was offered only one day, and decided to record “The Face of Dorian Gray”. This led to extra studio time. The single was released on Reset Records, a label founded in 1983 by Vince Clarke and Eric Radcliffe. The B-side was the track “The Tale of Dorian Gray“.

After that, he released three more singles: “I Just Want to Dance”, “Claudette” and “Calling All Destroyers”. Due to little airplay and low sales the album was shelved until 1999 when the Swedish label Energy Rekords released it.

In early 2002 Robert Marlow founded Marlow, which was a duo with Gary Durant. The duo released the single “My Teenage Dream” in 2002. An album followed in 2009, “Inside Outside”, on Electro-Shock-Records which would release all of Robert Marlow’s later side-project albums. The title track was arranged and produced by Vince Clarke, who had also remixed a track on the album called “Home”. The follow-up album “The Future” was never released and the duo split up in 2012. However in 2013 he would release a reworked version of “The Future” as “The Future Remixes”.

After the split of Marlow, Robert Marlow once again performed as a solo artist and released a new 7 track EP, “The Blackwing Sessions”, again on the German label Electro Shock Records. The release held tracks with other vocals and instrumentals from the “1982–1984 recordings in the Blackwing Studios”.

Cleopatra Records would later on release standard US releases of “The Peter Pan Effect” and Family Fantastic’s “Nice!” in a limited edition box double pack with additional info about Vince Clarke’s involvements in the two projects on the back. Family Fantastic was a project formed in 2000 by Clarke and Phil Creswick (ex-Big Fun), featuring various high-profile singers from the UK.

Robert Marlow's Facebook profile picture posted in 2017
Robert Marlow’s Facebook profile picture posted in 2017

I have had the pleasure to interview Robert Marlow a couple of times, and although he never became a big superstar, he was ok with what he had achieved despite having to wait decades to see his dreams come partially true. A sweet person, maybe too kind for this world.

Our most since condolences to Robert’s friends and family.

]]> US goth rock act The Wake announce first live shows in over twenty years https://www.side-line.com/us-goth-rock-act-the-wake-announce-first-live-shows-in-over-twenty-years/ Mon, 08 Aug 2022 14:06:10 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=38185 US goth rock act The Wake return to the stage for two shows only this...]]>
US goth rock act The Wake announce first live shows in over twenty years

US goth rock act The Wake return to the stage for two shows only this year, in New Jersey, USA, and Madrid, Spain. These are The Wake’s first live shows since 1999, and the first time the band’s classic line-up has been reunited live onstage since 1994.

Frontman Troy Payne says: “If what Violet Fane said is true, and “all things come to those who wait” – then surely, we are all in for one hell of a good time. This has been so long in coming that, by the time we step on stage, I expect to be sweating venom.”

The two dates are:

  • New Jersey, USA – 22 October 2022: QXT’s Nightclub, Newark, New Jersey, USA (With special guest: Caroline Blind)
  • Madrid, Spain – 4 November 2022: NAZCA Music Live, Madrid, Spain (With special guests: NU:N)

About The Wake

The Wake is an American gothic rock band from Columbus, Ohio, United States, and should not be mistaken with the British post-punk act with the same name.

Formed in 1986 by vocalist Troy Payne and guitarist Richard Witherspoon in Columbus, Ohio USA – The Wake made its first studio recording “Procession” using session musicians on drums and bass in 1987. Bassist James Tramel and electronic drummer Scott Rozanski were recruited later the same year. This lineup quickly recorded first versions of tracks like: “Burial”, “Shelia”, and “Locomotive Age”, creating a rough template for what would become The Wake’s signature sound.

Acoustic drummer Daniel C. replaced Rozanski early in 1989. Driven forward by Daniel’s acoustic drum sound, the band moved substantially towards the rock and roll end of the sonic spectrum. Hoping to add yet another dimension to their sound, keyboardist Robert Brothers was added to the mix in 1990.

In a move to gain exposure, the band started Blaylox Records, named after the band’s mascot cat. The label released their demo cassette and the 7” vinyl single “Harlot” in 1990. Following on the success of “Harlot”, the band released a second 7”, “Sideshow”, on their Blaylox Records label in 1992 which led to the band signing with Cleopatra Records in 1993. The Wake’s debut album “Masked” was released in October 1993. After the completion of the “Masked” tour, the band parted ways with bass player James Tramel and a new bassist, Steven Creighton, was brought into the fold before the release of the “Christine” EP in 1995 with re-mixes supplied by Rosetta Stone.

In 1996, The Wake joined forces with former Ministry engineer “Fluffy” on their third CD, “Nine Ways”. The album was recorded and mixed at both Chicago Trax, and the Chicago Recording Company. Just before the release of “Nine Ways”, guitarist and co-founder Rich Witherspoon left the band and former MCA recording artist Mark Gamiere was enlisted to take over at guitar. Though no studio recordings were made with this lineup, Gamiere provided live tour support from 1996 to 2000. Other lineup changes include the late J.T. Murphy replacing Steven Creighton on bass in 1998. The band turned bass playing duty over to a hard-disk recorder in 1999 before giving way to a hiatus in 2000.

In 2008 “Blacklist” was released on MVD/Cleopatra, it was a ‘best of’ compilation DVD with bonus unreleased material, rare tracks and video. In 2010 Blaylox Records released The Wake’s single “Emily Closer” featuring the reunited lineup of Payne, Witherspoon, Tramel, Brothers, and Daniel C.. In December 2013, The Wake announced the release of a new single, “Rusted”, remixed by John Fryer. Released on Blaylox Records, the single features the lineup of Troy Payne, Rich Witherspoon, and Daniel C..

]]> Front Line Assembly team with Cleopatra Records for a 6cd box holding earliest recordings https://www.side-line.com/front-line-assembly-team-with-cleopatra-records-for-a-6cd-box-holding-earliest-recordings/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 13:10:15 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37974 Out August 19 via Cleopatra Records is a 6cd box holding the earliest recordings of...]]>
Front Line Assembly team with Cleopatra Records for a 6cd box holding earliest recordings

Out August 19 via Cleopatra Records is a 6cd box holding the earliest recordings of Front Line Assembly. Founded in 1986 by Bill Leeb shortly after leaving Skinny Puppy, Front Line Assembly laid the foundation for what became known as Electronic Body Music (or EBM) as well as the second wave of industrial music.

The brand new box set entitled “Permanent Data 1986-1989” will hold 6 individual CD wallets as well as a full-color 12-page booklet of liner notes written by music journalist Dave Thompson based on an exclusive and recent interview with Leeb. Every track has been digitally remastered by Jürgen Engler of German band Die Krupps, including also rare bonus tracks. The set is capped with a rare 1989 live album.

As an added bonus, Cleopatra Records is also releasing a digitally remastered 2CD collection of Front Line Assembly demos. Titled “Nerve War”, the collection is available as both a 2CD set as well as on vinyl in a 2LP gatefold jacket with splatter vinyl.

Disc 1: Total Terror I

  1. Total Terror
  2. A Decade
  3. Rebels In Afghanistan
  4. Eternal
  5. Developing Suicide
  6. Black Fluid
  7. Falling There
  8. All You Do
  9. Seeing Is Believing
  10. Empty Walls
  11. Enemy Number One
  12. On The Cross

Bonus Tracks

  1. Freedom
  2. Distorted Vision
  3. Cleanser

Disc 2: Total Terror Ii

  1. Assassination
  2. Intensive Care Unit
  3. Immobilized
  4. They’re Going To Kill Us
  5. Stimulant Combat
  6. Hatred By Society
  7. Intruder
  8. Face Puller
  9. A.E.C. Krunch
  10. Cro-Magnon
  11. Guilty
  12. Attack Decay
  13. The Bonening

Disc 3: State Of Mind

  1. First Reprisal
  2. Consequence
  3. Burnt Soul
  4. Testimony
  5. Landslide
  6. Terminal Power
  7. Malignant Fracture
  8. Eastern Voices

Bonus Tracks

  1. Resistance
  2. Sustain Upright
  3. No Tomorrow
  4. And They Shall Bow

Disc 4: Corrosion

  1. Lurid Sensation
  2. Right Hand Of Heaven
  3. Concussion
  4. On The Cross
  5. Conflict
  6. Controversy
  7. Dark Dreams
  8. The Wreck Part III (Wisdom)

Disc 5: Disorder

  1. Body Count
  2. Obsession
  3. Aggression
  4. Lurid Sensation
  5. Die-Sect
  6. The Wrack

Bonus Tracks

  1. Solitude Of Confinement
  2. Collision
  3. Headcase Fargone (Wisdom)

Disc 6: Live

  1. Intro (Turmoil)
  2. Digital Tension Dementia
  3. Sedation
  4. Lethal Compound
  5. Bloodsport
  6. Body Count
  7. Lurid Sensation
  8. Foolsgame
]]> Corpus Delicti sees complete recordings released as 4CD boxset https://www.side-line.com/corpus-delicti-sees-complete-recordings-released-as-4cd-boxset/ Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:57:56 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37659 Cleopatra Records presents “Corpus Delicti: The Complete Recordings 1992-1996”, a box set that includes the...]]>
Corpus Delicti sees complete recordings released as 4CD boxset

Cleopatra Records presents “Corpus Delicti: The Complete Recordings 1992-1996”, a box set that includes the entire discography of this pioneering Darkwave band from the South of France. This set includes all 3 of the band’s original studio albums plus rarities, unreleased mixes, live tracks and more.

Packaged in a Gustave Doré illustrated clamshell box with individual wallet jackets for each of the 4 compact discs, this set also includes comments by Corpus Delicti vocalist Sébastien Pietrapiana, a full-color 16-page booklet of photos with art direction and liner notes by former Cleopatra Records A&R head Athan Maroulis (NØIR).

Right now, this limited edition box set can be pre-ordered on Bandcamp or directly though Cleopatra with the actual street date of July 15th, 2022 for the CD version and all digital and streaming platforms.

About Corpus Delicti

Corpus Delicti started in 1991 in Nice and broke up in 1996. In five years time they released four studio albums and two compilations on Cleopatra. Their sound was deeply influenced by Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees and Rozz Williams. The group nevertheless produced a last album under the name Corpus, with industrial, mechanical sounds, having no common feature with their previous works.

After the split Chrys (Christophe Baudrion) formed an industrial music project named Kom-Intern on the Brume Records label and Sebastian (Sébastien Pietrapiana) embarked on an indie pop/rock solo project, Kuta, Frank in Curl (D-Monic Records). Franck (Franck Amendola) and Chrys also formed Press Gang Metropol, a rock band in the tradition of Joy Division, The Cure, Interpol and Editors and were joined by Eric Chabaud on drums and Sebastian on vocals. A first album was released in early 2012 on the D-Monic Records label.

]]> Darkwave act Crying Vessel release brand new single, ‘Left for Dead’, watch the video already https://www.side-line.com/darkwave-act-crying-vessel-release-brand-new-single-left-for-dead-watch-the-video-already/ Fri, 25 Feb 2022 01:10:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=35104 The darkwave act Crying Vessel are to unleash a brand new single “Left for Dead”....]]>
Darkwave act Crying Vessel release brand new single, 'Left for Dead', watch the video already

The darkwave act Crying Vessel are to unleash a brand new single “Left for Dead”. The single release goes hand in hand with a brand new video as well which was directed by long-time Crying Vessel collaborator Fabio Rincones.

Singer and frontman Slade Templeton wrote this song to introduce the direction of the new album “Before life was Death” which is planned for a June 2022 release on Cleopatra Records. The record itself will be released as an auteur-illustrated tarot card set.

Crying Vessel started out as a solo project from Slade Templeton in 2010 and since then has become a band with drummer Basil Oberli.

“Left for Dead” is out February 23rd, 2022, but for now enjoy the video.

]]> Side-Line premiere: new Metamorph video ‘Love in the Wreckage’ out now feat. Margot Day https://www.side-line.com/side-line-premiere-new-metamorph-video-love-in-the-wreckage-out-now-feat-margot-day/ Sun, 13 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=35354 Out now and ready for Valentine is the brand new video from Metamorph, “Love in...]]>
Side-Line premiere: new Metamorph video 'Love in the Wreckage' out now feat. Margot Day

Out now and ready for Valentine is the brand new video from Metamorph, “Love in the Wreckage”. Featuring Margot Day – who was an integral part of the 80’s NYC underground music scene while fronting the legendary Goth band The Plague – the track was produced by Cleopatra recording artist Erik Gustafson (Adoration Destroyed).

Here’s what Margot Day has to say about the track: “Life in todays’ world is messy and chaotic but I am thrilled to be writing and recording music in the jungle – transmuting the worlds chaos into love. Metamorph Music has always been about change. 2021 was full of so much chaos and pain. But for me there has been a strange undercurrent of joy in the madness. I found myself transforming this emotional intensity into a spiritual awakening. Alone, but not lonely, here in the jungle, writing and creating new songs. These new lyrics and melodies are pouring in like an avalanche. It was a challenge to take on new technology and learn to program music and record my own voice and flute. But the necessity to share with you and the world made me driven to learn and grow and delve deeper than I ever have before. I am grateful to Erik Gustafson for for his musical contributions and brilliant production.”

“Love in the Wreckage” is the first single to drop from the new Metamorph album.

Here’s the video for “Love in the Wreckage”.

About Margot Day

Margot Day is a singer, flutist, songwriter, and poet who played with the band The Plague in the 80s as part of the underground music scene in New York City. Day also played flute with Slow Walk 13, a conceptual music band, in 1982. In 1987, The Plague released a self-titled album and two years later, the band broke up. Day went on to release an eponymous album in 1997 that echoed work by Yoko Ono. In 1999, she released another album, “Sacred”.

In 2010 her six-piece group mOss circle self-published a self-titled CD. By 2018, she was playing with Kurtis Knight in a duo called Metamorph. 2019 Metamorph expanded to include Anomaly on Bass, Joe Netzel on Drums and Dancers Rivqah Cas and Kitten Mapants.

]]> Debut album Children On Stun ‘Tourniquets Of Love’s Desire’ gets deluxe reissue treatment https://www.side-line.com/debut-album-children-on-stun-tourniquets-of-loves-desire-gets-deluxe-reissue-treatment/ Thu, 09 Dec 2021 14:27:07 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=34219 London’s cult goth rock act Children On Stun were formed in 1991 by vocalist Neil...]]>
Debut album Children On Stun 'Tourniquets Of Love’s Desire' gets deluxe reissue treatment

London’s cult goth rock act Children On Stun were formed in 1991 by vocalist Neil Ash, guitarist Peter Finnemore, bassist Simon Manning, and drummer Simon Treen. The quartet quickly rose to prominence in the underground dark music scene, touring with Rosetta Stone and issuing several well-received demos.

But the band’s breakthrough occurred when it signed with the US based label Cleopatra Records and released their debut full-length album, “Tourniquets Of Love’s Desire”, in 1994 featuring tracks like “Cat’s Or Devil’s Eyes”, “Sidelined” and “Beginning Of The End”.

The band’s debut is now getting a deluxe re-issue on both CD and, for the first time ever, on vinyl. The album has been updated with a complete digital remastering while the artwork has been meticulously recreated with band photos.

The CD comes packaged in a digipak with bonus tracks from the “Celibacy & Anadin” EP and includes remixes by Rosetta Stone, while the vinyl comes in limited edition red and black splatter as you can see below.

]]> ‘Click Interview’ with Not My God: There Are Many Challenges And Difficulties On The High Road Of True Art’ https://www.side-line.com/click-interview-with-not-my-god-there-are-many-challenges-and-difficulties-on-the-high-road-of-true-art/ Sat, 27 Nov 2021 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=33940 Not My God is a project set up by Tim Skold (Marilyn Manson, Kmfdm, Motionless In White,...]]>

Not My God is a project set up by Tim Skold (Marilyn Manson, Kmfdm, Motionless In White, Shotgun Messiah…) and Nero Bellum (Psyclon Nine). They last year released their self-titled debut-album on Cleopatra Records and this year joined hands together with Metropolis to unleash ten new songs. “Simulacra” is hard to label, but clearly revealing a mix of influences; the work sounds Electronic and has been achieved with numerous Industrial sound treatments while the result has something pretty Cinematographic-like with Tim Skold’s passionate vocals on top. I’d a chat with both members.

(Courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: You guys know each other from playing together in your respective bands, but how did you finally come to set up a new music project together? What do you like in each other’s approach of producing music?

Tim: Our differences makes us similar. I know that might sounds a little strange but we are very alike in some of the ways we are different. As humans we do not only exist in a physical sense but also on many other levels and it is in some of those spaces we come together, almost subconsciously, to complement each other. Art is magic, much like a DC Marvel Superhero Universe.

Nero: I think that our individual projects are precious to us so when the prospect of working together came up, a new project was the way to go. An open playground to explore new ideas with no expectations. It almost immediately transitioned from work to ritual.

Q: The sound of Not My God is not easy to define, maybe a mix between Industrial- and Cinematographic music. It however reveals something ‘different’ and maybe ‘visionary’ when compared to other Industrial projects. What can you say about it? Did you have specific references and influences -also lyrical wise?

Tim: We have both done extensive ‘studies’ in the fields you describe above and thought it was time to explore uncharted territory.

Nero: I’m happy to live in an undefined space. To social distance our art from the unexceptional. The further we can step away from convention, the better.

Q: “Simulacra” is an interesting title –and especially considering your sound, as it might stand for ‘the representation or imitation of a person or thing’. What did you try to express by this title? And what do you think about bands, which are just trying to copy others?

Tim: Yes, exactly that and countless other interpretations. It is an ambitious title for a very ambitious collection of music.

Nero: The dead imitate the living. It’s an error in the facsimile. The second coming.

I don’t think about other bands enough to answer the latter half of your question.

Q: How do you manage working together? Is there any specific format and did you notice an evolution from your debut album towards “Simulacra?”

Tim: No! When we start it is a completely open field and it is only when we are on the way we realize what works and what doesn’t. No predefined rules or regulations will be allowed to stunt this development.

Nero: While there is no established format, Not My God has always been about experimentation. There is a subconscious push to do things differently. A song may begin as a patch on my modular system, I might plug a toy piano into a series of guitar pedals and improvise a motif or bow a broken violin through a granular processor. Always recording in the background. What works stays.

Q: What have been the different stages you’d to go through to achieve “Simulacra?” Did you encounter major difficulties and/or challenges?

Tm: Yes, there are many challenges and difficulties on the high road of true art. There is very deep darkness in the unexplored territories of this music.

Nero: The end result is multiple personality disorder. When composing for a specific project I can’t help, but to become the character that lives in that ‘world’, taking on the burdens that character may feel. It can be empowering and it can be devastating.

Q: I can’t get away from the idea your music could be used for a movie soundtrack, which is only accentuated by the different clips you made. Do you’ve specific plans in that direction and tell us a bit more about the clips? Are there new clips in the make for the new album?

Tim: Yes, I think I speak for both of us when I say we completely agree with this. I’d would even say that we know we have created music that will undoubtedly inspire other art including film and that this material will also push the format further and further. We would not mind making clips for every song, but that is of course fiscally impossible for us to do, but we look forward to see what film makers and others do incorporating or at least inspired by our works in the future.

Nero: With film and with music, we both aim to tell a story. It’s a natural marriage. What stories may emerge as an amalgam I’ll leave to the prophets and oracles.

]]> New single for dark pop act Ships In The Night: ‘First Light’ https://www.side-line.com/new-single-for-dark-pop-act-ships-in-the-night-first-light/ Tue, 05 Oct 2021 18:50:42 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=33056 Ships In The Night has just simultaneously released a brand new single along with an...]]>
New single for dark pop act Ships In The Night: 'First Light'

Ships In The Night has just simultaneously released a brand new single along with an accompanying video for the song “First Light”, the first peek at their upcoming album “Latent Powers”.

The dark pop act Ships In The Night is led by songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Alethea Leventhal who also completed the dance floor remix on the “First Light” single.

“Latent Powers” will officially mark Ships in the Night’s debut for the Cleopatra Records label and will be released through all digital and streaming services on October 27th, 2021.

Here’s the 2-track single.

]]> ‘Ashes’ is the all new single from the second album by Not My God aka Tim Skold and Nero Bellum https://www.side-line.com/ashes-is-the-all-new-single-from-the-second-album-by-not-my-god-aka-tim-skold-and-nero-bellum/ Mon, 16 Aug 2021 16:03:44 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=32216 Out on October 15 via Metropolis Records is “Simulacra”, the forthcoming second album by Not...]]>
'Ashes' is the all new single from the second album by Not My God aka Tim Skold and Nero Bellum

Out on October 15 via Metropolis Records is “Simulacra”, the forthcoming second album by Not My God aka Tim Skold and Nero Bellum. The album is the follow-up to 2020’s self-titled outing as Not My God (Cleopatra Records).

Just like with their first album, Tim Skold (Marilyn Manson, KMFDM, Motionless In White, Skold) and Nero Bellum (Psyclon Nine) have written and recorded the material together for this second studio album. “Simulacra” will hold 10 new tracks.

The first single from the album is “Ashes” with an accompanying video directed by Vicente Cordero of Industrialism Films.

]]> UK electro outfit Inertia returns with all new single ‘Scowl’ including a nice welcome return by Alexys B https://www.side-line.com/uk-electro-outfit-inertia-returns-with-all-new-single-scowl-including-a-nice-welcome-return-by-alexys-b/ Fri, 13 Aug 2021 08:46:27 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=32153 After 29 years in existence as a band, the UK act Inertia are back with...]]>
UK electro outfit Inertia returns with all new single 'Scowl' including a nice welcome return by Alexys B

After 29 years in existence as a band, the UK act Inertia are back with a brand new single, released on their very own label, Cryonica Music: “Scowl”. “Scowl” features bandleader, Reza Udhin with members Ollie Cater (Guitars), Andrew Lowlife (Keyboards) and Circus performer Blue Jigsaw on drums. And, good news, coming back to the Inertia fold after 7 years is co-leadsinger and ex drummer, Alexys B, lending her vocals to the track.

And that’s not all, we also hear 3 more guitarists: Steve White (KMFDM and PIG), Tim Stephens (ex-Inertia, ex-EMF, Mojiles) and Nick Bayford from Alexys B’s own Rockabilly band Lady Luck Lexy & the Riverside Boys.

Next to the title track we also get 2 remixes by CyberIndustries and Modulate. Out today, you can check the lyric video below, and get the 3-track single right here on Bandcamp.

Welcome back guys!

About Inertia

Inertia was formed in 1992 Reza Udhin and was signed to Germany’s Celtic Circle Productions in 1994 through which the debut MCD “Infiltrator” was released in June 1995. This CD was actually a re-recording of the band’s first demo tape. The band returned to the studio in February 1996 to start work on the “Programmed to respond” album and the “Mind-Energy” MCD. The album and MCD were released respectively in February 1997 and December 1996. By then 1996 Alexys B had joined Inertia on electronic drums.

1997 Mark Barrett leaves Inertia., Ed Luxmoore joins Inertia on Synths.

February 1999, the band released the remix album “Demagnetized / Remagnetized” which featured remixes by artists such as Das Ich, Spahn Ranch and Julian Beeston (Nitzer Ebb). The same year a brand new album, “Negative Prime”, was released in May 1999 on Nightbreed Recordings. A year later the remix CD “Positive Angel” was released on Inertia’s own label Cryonica Music.

November 2001, the new single “No Defect” is launched while the band complete their brand new album “Advanced Revelation” due for release in February 2002. In 2004, the album “Black Ice Impact” hits the streets followed in December 2005 by a best of Double CD “Decade of Machines – 1994-2004”. This DCD is released by Cryonica Music in Europe and Cleopatra Records in the USA.

May 2007, a brand new self titled album “Inertia” is released on Cryonica Music. The album features several guest musicians, including Kneill Brown (Killing Joke), Client E / Emily Strange (Client) and Phill Good (Libitina/Pinion). Inertia also recruit a new member, Bob Malkowski as guitarist. 2 years later the remix album “Interpret”, with remixes from Youth (Producer/Killing Joke), Die Krupps and Armageddon Dildos featured, is released by the Japanese label Deathwatch Asia. In the meantime Reza Udhin becomes the keyboard player for the legendary band Killing Joke.

2010, Inertia emerge with a new line up with Kneill X on Guitar (ex Killing Joke, Killer B Movie) and Andrew Lowlife on Synths (Swarf). In early 2010, they release the covers album “Kloned”, it is followed by the single “Repeat & Follow” later that year. November of the same year sees the new album “Deworlded” being released. At at the end of the year they collaborate with UK band Mechanical Cabaret to release a cover version of the classic John Leyton/Joe Meek track “Johnny, Remember Me”.

2012 Inertia signs with Metropolis Records. A new single “Alive” is released in October, followed by a brand new album “Universal Blood” in November 2012. 2 more albums follow on Metropolis, “Existential” (2015) and “Dream Machine” (2017), plus a string of singles, the last one being “Only Law” in 2017.

4 years later the band returns with the single “Inertia” featuring Sieben on Cryonica Music, and now the new single “Scowl”.

]]> Belgian industrial act Controversial launches video for ‘Violence’ https://www.side-line.com/belgian-industrial-act-controversial-launches-video-for-violence/ Tue, 06 Jul 2021 12:56:27 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=31505 Belgian industrial band Controversial have just launched the visualizer for their song, “Violence”. The track...]]>
Belgian endustrial act Controversial launches video for 'Violence'

Belgian industrial band Controversial have just launched the visualizer for their song, “Violence”. The track is taken from the band’s most recent Cleopatra Records release “Second Genesis”. The song itself is based on a documentary from the 1990s about human violence and deals with the darker side of humanity.

Behind Controversial we find Bart Coninckx who started recording material in 2001 in a home studio. Back then the project was named ‘Pitch Black’. In 2014 he resurfaced and started experimenting.

Bart: “Controversial aims to create the music I always wanted to hear, but never came across. Controversial would become the vehicle of trying to get to that sound. My view on music is not limited to one or the other genre or category. If anything, I try to rise above the “box mentality” and just take the particular energy form one music genre and mix it with another. In this way I like to go down the road less traveled, thus being “controversial”.”

As you will hear on some tracks Coninckx omits his typical distorted vocals in favor of spoken samples which, due to their content and placement, create social themed ‘sample-instrumentals’.

Here’s the video for “Violence”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQvnUMIqXz4

And here is the full release.

]]> A Cloud Of Ravens release remix EP feat. remixes by Clan of Xymox, Actors, Chris Vrenna, John Fryer, … https://www.side-line.com/a-cloud-of-ravens-release-remix-ep-feat-remixes-by-clan-of-xymox-actors-chris-vrenna-john-fryer/ Fri, 25 Jun 2021 13:48:11 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=31301 Today, the Brooklyn-based gothic rock duo A Cloud of Ravens have released “Another Kind of...]]>
A Cloud Of Ravens release remix EP feat. remixes by Clan of Xymox, Actors, Chris Vrenna, John Fryer, ...

Today, the Brooklyn-based gothic rock duo A Cloud of Ravens have released “Another Kind of Midnight: The Remixes”, I an EP featuring remixes by Clan of Xymox, Actors, Chris Vrenna, John Fryer, Ritual Howls, Tummyache and Ego Likeness.

Formed in the fall of 2018 by Beth (bass guitar) and Matthew (guitar/vocals) the band is centered around their longstanding and shared admiration of bands and artists that defined the stark, minimal dramaticism of the initial post-punk era, and all its related subgenres. The band quickly self-released their first single, closely followed by the “Sacred Hearts” EP and their full-length album “In the Wicked Hours”.

The duo signed with American independent label Cleopatra Records to issue their new full-length offering “Another Kind of Midnight” and now they offer the remix EP “Another Kind of Midnight: The Remixes”.

The release is available from Cleopatra Records on all digital and streaming platforms.

]]> Reissue of Christian Death’s 1986 album ‘Atrocities’ https://www.side-line.com/reissue-of-christian-deaths-1986-album-atrocities/ Fri, 21 May 2021 09:24:18 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=30729 Season of Mist is reissuing Christian Death’s “Atrocities” album on LP and CD on July...]]>
Reissue of Christian Death's 1986 album 'Atrocities'

Season of Mist is reissuing Christian Death’s “Atrocities” album on LP and CD on July 9. “Atrocities” was the fourth studio album by the American act and was released in 1986 through the record label Normal.

The album’s subject matter deals almost exclusively with the Holocaust, including songs about Auschwitz and Josef Mengele. Recorded at Rockfield Studios in Monmouth, Wales it also featured the songwriting and arrangement skills of Barry Galvin, who, along with Johann Schumann, would leave the group upon the completion of “Atrocities”. Both went on to form Mephisto Walz.

It is the first Christian Death record with Valor Kand taking over main duties following Rozz Williams’ departure and also the first release with no original members of the band remaining. Some until today still doubt we can still speak of Christian Death at this point, but that’s another discussion.

The re-release is part of an ongoing series of vinyl reissues of Christian Death’s catalog via Season of Mist. Previously, the label reissued LPs for the band’s “Catastrophe Ballet” (1984) as well as “The Root of All Evilution”, “Ashes”, “The Scriptures”, “American Inquisition” and “Sex and Drugs and Jesus Christ”.

About Christian Death

Founded in Los Angeles in 1979 by Rozz Williams, the band formed the American goth and death-rock movement with their debut album, “Only Theatre of Pain” (1982), “Catastrophe Ballet” (1984) and “Ashes” (1985). The latter marked also the final appearance of the classic band lineup and features the final recordings of founder Rozz Williams alongside Valor Kand, vocalist-keyboardist Gitane Demone and drummer David Glass.

“Atrocities” was followed by 1987’s “The Scriptures”, recorded by a revamped lineup of Kand, Demone, Glass, guitarist James Beam and bassist Kota. Longtime drummer Glass left the group following the release of “The Scriptures” and returned to California, where he eventually worked with several Williams side projects.

During the late 1980s, while also recording as Shadow Project, Williams resurrected his own version of Christian Death, with his wife Eva O contributing guitar as well as vocals. Billing themselves as the original Christian Death, they were rejoined by first-album guitarist Agnew for a 1989 tour of Canada. The band was signed to Cleopatra Records, and released “The Iron Mask” album and “Skeleton Kiss” EP in 1992.

Williams’ reclamation of the Christian Death name sparked a fierce battle with Kand. However, Kand already had the rights to the name due to Williams’ departure from the band and subsequent neglect of the moniker. Williams consequently billed his version of the band as “Christian Death Featuring Rozz Williams”. After this, Williams’ version released “The Path of Sorrows” album in 1993 and “The Rage of Angels” in 1994.

Williams pursued other projects before committing suicide on April 1, 1998.

Meanwhile, Kand’s Christian Death continued performing and recording, issuing the 1990 album “Insanus, Ultio, Proditio, Misercordiaque”, on which Kand conducted the English Abbey Choir and the Commonwealth Chamber Orchestra. The band released the “Sexy Death God” album in 1994, the double-live set “Amen” in 1995, the Nostradamus-themed “Prophecies” in 1996, and “Pornographic Messiah” in 1998. “Born Again Anti Christian” followed 2 years later.

7 years later, in 2007, Christian Death released “American Inquisition” featuring a new drummer, Nate Hassan. In January 2015, Christian Death released “The Root of All Evilution” digitally via Knife Fight Media, and on vinyl via Season of Mist. A CD release followed on The End Records.

]]> Legendary occultist Aleister Crowley remixed by dark electronic & witch house artists https://www.side-line.com/legendary-occultist-aleister-crowley-remixed-by-dark-electronic-witch-house-artists/ Tue, 20 Apr 2021 18:44:51 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=29981 Cleopatra Records has gathered a group of electronic, rock and industrial artists to remix some...]]>
Legendary occultist Aleister Crowley gets remixed by dark electronic & witch house artists

Cleopatra Records has gathered a group of electronic, rock and industrial artists to remix some of the only surviving recordings legendary occultist Aleister Crowley made. The historic wax recordings date back from 1910-1914 and are all featured on the brand new release “Black Magic”. Artists included in this project are Jozef van Wissem, Hawkestrel, Ritualz, Umberto, ∆AIMON, Neoslave, Ainoma, VV & The Void, Witch Of The Vale and Kill Shelter.

The album also features an all-new denoised and remastered collection of the original wax recordings.

For a sneak preview of what’s in store, check out this new video for Neoslave remix “Rise Above You”.

In further news, a full-length biopic on Aleister Crowley, directed by The Cordero Brothers, is in the making. The screenplay is based on the Boleskine House where Crowley used to practice his ‘black magic’ rituals. The house, which was later purchased by Jimmy Page.

]]> Black Plastic announces new album ‘Club Grotesque’ and releases first single ‘Bite’ https://www.side-line.com/black-plastic-announces-new-album-club-grotesque-and-releases-first-single-bite/ Wed, 07 Apr 2021 11:30:41 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=29794 Electronic artist Black Plastic announces his new album “Club Grotesque” on Cleopatra Records. The release...]]>
Black Plastic announces new album 'Club Grotesque'

Electronic artist Black Plastic announces his new album “Club Grotesque” on Cleopatra Records. The release is the follow-up on his self titled debut album, “Black Plastic”. Founded by renowned graphic designer Kevin Grady, Black Plastic presents dark electronics that you could label as dark techno.

“Club Grotesque” also features several others musicians. Synthpop artist André Obin for instance, lends his vocals to the song, and first single “Bite” while Richard Butler of Psychedelic Furs is the guest vocalist on the song “Acid Rain” which also features samples from Robert Calvert of Hawkwind. Jason Corbett of the post-punk act Actors, produces the song “Sucker” and lends his guitar work to the track. He also remixed the track “Savage” on the album. Lastly, Casey Desmond produced and played on multiple tracks on the album.

Kevin Grady: “Club Grotesque” grew out of a genuine sense of darkness and dread in what has been one of the hardest years we’ve experienced. Because of that, we doubled down on the beats—sometimes all you can do is dance it all out, even if it’s by yourself in your bedroom. It’s not goth, but it’s definitely dance music for vampires.”

“Club Grotesque” will be released April 16th on Cleopatra Records. It will be available on a limited edition purple vinyl as well as CD and digitally world wide. The first – excellent – single “Bite” is out now and can be heard below.

]]> Skold returns with 5th album focussing more on metal https://www.side-line.com/skold-returns-with-5th-album-focussing-more-on-metal/ Wed, 10 Feb 2021 18:24:28 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=29070 Former Marilyn Manson and Shotgun Messiah member Tim Sköld returns with a 5th album under...]]>
Skold returns with 5th album focussing more on metal

Former Marilyn Manson and Shotgun Messiah member Tim Sköld returns with a 5th album under the Skold moniker: “Dies Irae”. This fifth album, the follow-to to 2019’s “Never Is Now”, showcases Skold’s heavy metal side backed by synths and will be out on March 5 via Cleopatra Records.

Tim Sköld is a Swedish musician and record producer, who in addition to producing solo work, has also collaborated with multiple musical groups including Shotgun Messiah, KMFDM, Marilyn Manson and Motionless in White.

Check already this track, “Goodbye”.

]]> Cleopatra to release ‘Leaether Strip: The Zoth Ommog Years 1989-1999’ https://www.side-line.com/cleopatra-to-release-leaether-strip-the-zoth-ommog-years-1989-1999/ Tue, 24 Nov 2020 17:11:59 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=27971 Cleopatra Records has announced the forthcoming release of “Leaether Strip: The Zoth Ommog Years 1989-1999”,...]]>
Cleopatra to release 'Leaether Strip: The Zoth Ommog Years 1989-1999'

Cleopatra Records has announced the forthcoming release of “Leaether Strip: The Zoth Ommog Years 1989-1999”, a boxed set featuring 10 individually packaged CDs with original artwork and rare bonus material. This limited edition collection showcases the output of projects helmed by Claus Larsen when being signed to the German label Zoth Ommog with both Leaether Strip and Klutae.

This collection will hold 148 tracks along with a 16-page booklet filled with rare photos as well as liner notes by Athan Maroulis (Spahn Ranch, Executive Slacks, NØIR). The set will reach the shops on December 4th and will also be available via all digital and streaming platforms.

About Leaether Strip

The Danish musical project Leaether Strip was founded in January, 1988 by Claus Larsen. Its influence has been most felt in the electronic body music and electro-industrial genres.

Leæther Strip was one of the earliest and most prominent acts on Germany’s now defunct Zoth Ommog record label. For distribution outside of Europe, the music has been licensed to the U.S. labels Cleopatra Records and Metropolis Records.

After the demise of Zoth Ommog in 1999, Larsen signed to Bloodline Records, which only released a single before also going out of business. In 2005, Leæther Strip signed with the Belgian-based label Alfa Matrix until 2011.

]]> The Anix launch ‘Die With You Remix Contest Compilation’ remix album – Out now https://www.side-line.com/the-anix-to-launch-die-with-you-remix-contest-compilation-remix-album/ Tue, 03 Nov 2020 18:24:20 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=27764 Out via FiXT is The Anix‘ “Die With You Remix Contest Compilation” album. The album...]]>

Out via FiXT is The Anix‘ “Die With You Remix Contest Compilation” album. The album features 14 mixes, including the top 3 winners from the contest, Kaixo, BassPanda, and Simdist, along with additional mixes by Ario, Cyborgdrive, Metarmonica, Rodria, Ephemeral Machine, and more. You can expect a range of genres, including drum & bass, house, synthwave, dubstep, industrial and more.

Originally founded in 2001 by Smith, and later joined by brother Logan Smith with longtime friend Chris Dinger, the group toured the Hollywood rock club circuit for several years. After writing hundreds of songs and playing countless shows, the band signed a deal in 2008 to record their first full-length studio album titled “Demolition City”. The band then landed a deal with The Diesel Management Group and toured throughout Europe on the “Rocket Science Tour” with Apoptygma Berzerk.

In 2011 The Anix signed a record deal with Cleopatra Records to record their second studio album titled “Sleepwalker”. In 2016, The Anix began the process of reinventing themselves, shifting away from a touring band into a studio project. After a full year of development, the group emerged with “Ephemeral” in March 2017 as their 2nd album on Cleopatra Records.

In 2018, The Anix completed their metamorphosis from band to solo project as front-man and songwriter Smith signed with FiXT. The Anix released the full-length album “Shadow_Movement” in 2018, “Hologram” in 2019, and “Graphite” in 2020, and has signed on for 3 more albums with FiXT in the years to come.

Here’s the video for “Die With You (Ario Remix)”.

]]> Post-punk band Crying Vessel release new video ‘The Third Covenant’ https://www.side-line.com/post-punk-band-crying-vessel-release-new-video-the-third-covenant/ Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:57:59 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=27578 The LA based post-punk band, Crying Vessel, is releasing its third music video from the...]]>
Post-punk band Crying Vessel release new video 'The Third Covenant'

The LA based post-punk band, Crying Vessel, is releasing its third music video from the album “Pleasures For The Wicked”, released on Cleopatra Records in August of this year. Entitled “The Third Covenant” the video showcases the talents of dancer Son Bao Nguyen moving in hypnotic slow-mo through a series of poses that cross back and forth between ballet and martial arts.

The video was created by Neon Ray Films and can be viewed below.

Each song title on “Pleasures For The Wicked” is a part of a story, which can be heard in its entirety as a bonus hidden track on the CD only. It can also be read on the inside of the CD sleeve while listening. The album took 2 years to create and is the first time that Slade and Basil worked together in the songwriting.

]]> ‘Click Interview’ with Wintry: ‘We Must Move Ahead And Listen More To New Music’ https://www.side-line.com/click-interview-with-wintry-we-must-move-ahead-and-listen-more-to-new-music/ Tue, 21 Jul 2020 17:00:45 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=25987 Internet is getting artists closer, giving birth to new bands. Before the new millennium it...]]>

Internet is getting artists closer, giving birth to new bands. Before the new millennium it was nearly impossible to imagine a duo featuring the singer living in Germany and the musician living in Brazil. Wintry was the daylight thanks to the internet. Anne Goldacker (ex-Obsyre) and Alex Twin (3 Cold Men, Individual Industry, and still owner of Wave Records) joined hands together. They released a debut album “Atmosphere Around Us” in 2009 and struck back in 2017 with the single “Ausweg”. “Timeline” has been released as a collaboration between Wave Records and Young And Cold Records, but also got released in the US by Cleopatra Records. Their music reminds the golden years of 4AD and will appeal for lovers of X-Mal Deutschland, Cocteau Twins, Bauhaus and others. I got in touch with Anne and Alex. (Picture credits by Falk Scheuring).

(Courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: Wintry has been set up in the 90s as a solo-project and became a duo when Anne Goldacker joined in for the debut album “Atmosphere Around Us”. How did this meeting happened and what did Anne brought to Wintry expect her beautiful timbre of voice?


Anne: Alex and I met thanks to Bruno Kramm. Alex was looking for a singer and Bruno recommend me. The main part is my voice, the second part are the lyrics, which I write myself.

Q: The single “Ausweg” has been released in 2017, but it took you ten years to release a successor to the album “Atmopshere Around Us “. How do you explain this long absence and what motivated you to start again?

Anne: For me, music is an important part of my life. But first of all I have a demanding profession, which takes me lot of my attention. As a dentist you certainly need to get a balance and I found it in music. But time goes fast and it takes a little longer to finish an album.


Alex: I’m involved with many others projects, so I can write new music when there is some free time. But I also have to take care of the label and the e-shop. It’s not that easy when you’re doing this all alone while it takes much time.


Q: When did the writing of the new album “Timeline” started and what kind of album did you try to accomplish?

Anne: I don’t know exactly when. For me the work started with the musical basis from Alex. I got my ideas for singing when writing the lyrics. And the result is an album giving us satisfaction after a long period of creation.

Q: How did the writing-, recording- and production of the album happened? And how did it happened for the vocals as you don’t live in the same country? And what has been the real input of both guest artists?


Anne: In times of internet, the distance is no problem. I went to a friend‘s studio to record my vocals and send it to Brazil. Alex did the rest.


Alex: I compose the songs and send them to Anne. After getting back the vocals, I sent it all to our guest musicians, Franck from Opera Multi Steel on bass and Audret from Scarlet Leaves to play guitars. The final production has been done by Marclo Gallo (Pitch Yarn Of Matter), who’ s doing mixing, production and mastering for years now here in São Paulo.

Q: Wintry is often linked to some bands from the legendary 4AD roster. What did this label mean to you and what do you consider as the real sources of inspiration?


Alex: I think the main bands active in the dark scene and dealing with post-punk, dark-wave, ethereal and related genres are influenced by the 4AD era. These bands were the pioneers of dark music.

Things are a bit different today. Bands no longer  compose music like 4AD artists did. We have these bands in mind, but there also is the influence from ‘new’ bands. We must move ahead and listen more to new music than only to the ‘old ones’, at least that’s how it works for me. Actually I listen much more to new stuff than old work. Wave Records get many demos every week and trust me, I have heard numerous great new bands since 2010.

Q: “Timeline” has been of course released on your own label, Wave Records, but still here in Europe on Young & Cold Records and in the US on Cleopatra. Why releasing an album on three labels when we all know the CD format no longer sell? What are the further plans for Wintry?

Alex: After I had finished the Wintry master, I got a message from A&R from Cleopatra, and he asked me about some bands I released. So I sent him the new Wintry and we got a deal for North America exclusively. Young & Cold Records are partners for selling recrods via the e-shop, but Wintry also has 70% of the tracks in German, so we just found a deal for the vinyl release exclusively for Europe. The CD edit features bonus tracks and Wave Records sell it worldwide.


About the CD sales, I can tell you this format is still  selling, but not like in the 90s. But we have many customers only buying CD editions. Of course vinyl is growing the last years, but the main people at least in Brazil just buy CD’s. I think releasing 3 different formats is a good way to reach all kind of customers.

The plans for Wintry are to compose more tracks next year so a new album will be probably released for 2021/2022.

]]> Black Needle Noise spread new single ‘She Talks to Angels’ (feat. John Fryer and Anjela Piccard) https://www.side-line.com/black-needle-noise-spread-new-single-she-talks-to-angels-feat-john-fryer-and-anjela-piccard/ Tue, 14 Jul 2020 18:14:19 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=25928 (Photo by Candice Ghai) Out via Cleopatra Records is the newest single by Black Needle...]]>
Black Needle Noise spread new single 'She Talks to Angels' (feat. John Fryer and Anjela Piccard)

(Photo by Candice Ghai) Out via Cleopatra Records is the newest single by Black Needle Noise featuring legendary producer John Fryer and Anjela Piccard. With “She Talks To Angels” the duo pay tribute to the Black Crowes with their own unique twist and stylistic trademark.

“Always been a big fan of the Black Crowes and it always feels good to pay homage to bands you like. We wanted to give it a totally different and cinematic feel to the song in our version. Anjela’s vocals are very heartfelt in her interpretation and delivery of the lyrics and being inspired by the cities of New Orleans and LA, the City of Angels,” says John Fryer.

Anjela Piccard from her side says: “There are moments in this life that are both catastrophic and quite triumphant. The intention in recording this song is one of reflection and understanding. At some point, we all can find ourselves in total relation to the lyrics and the instrumental flow of the track. As for myself, the New Orleans / Los Ánjeles connection remains an anchor of the heart, as both cities represent a long-standing spiritual melange – unparalleled in beauty and gracious acceptance of its people.”

“She Talks To Angels” Is available below to check out. “She Talks To Angels” is the first taste of the forthcoming album “These Mortal Covers”, which will be released later this year. Black Needle Noise’s “Before The Tears Came” LP can still be ordered from the band itself.

The new single comes on the trail of the new video for “Seed of Evil” with PIG which you can check out below.

]]> Luna13 signs record deal with COP International for new album https://www.side-line.com/luna13-signs-record-deal-with-cop-international-for-new-album/ Tue, 14 Jul 2020 17:42:54 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=25918 (Photo by Abraham Preciado) Out on COP International on November 13 is the new album...]]>
Luna13 signs record deal with COP International for new album

(Photo by Abraham Preciado) Out on COP International on November 13 is the new album by the occult-inspired duo Luna13 which blends electronica and black metal. Luna13 is now sharing a cover of Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” which you can check out below and which was originally released via Cleopatra Records.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOAMHGuqo2w&feature=youtu.be

Luna13 was formed in 2015 and consists of Dr. Luna and Lilith Bathory.

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