NoCut &#8211; SIDE-LINE

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

Top 25 industrial / darkwave albums of the year 2023

Inferno Sound Diaries — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:58:15 +0000

Referring to the events that unfolded globally, 2023 has again been a bloody, terrible year. Music continues to be a true therapy for soothing pain and suffering, though it seems to have a diminishing impact on the ongoing horror. Therefore, I’m once again wrapping up the year with a personal selection of my very own ‘best of’ albums.

Throughout the year, over 700 productions were selected, and 450 reviews were conducted. Some productions were declined because the style of music didn’t fit, others weren’t reviewed for not being ‘good enough’, while a final portion of reviews will be postponed to early 2024. I am immensely grateful to all the labels, bands, and promoters for considering my work, and I look forward to collaborating again in 2024.

I extend my deepest gratitude and thanks to Rich Bova (NEIKKA RPM), who has been reading, correcting, and improving the reviews for many years. Without Rich, these reviews would not exist. I also want to thank Bernard Van Isacker, chief editor of Side-Line Music Magazine, for our ongoing, successful collaboration. Last but not least, I thank my lovely wife, Katja, for giving me the time and freedom to pursue my passion.

However…

Looking ahead to 2024, I’ve been scaling back my activities for a few years and plan to reduce them further. Having started with my first reviews and interviews back in 1991, I feel the end drawing near. My aim is to reach 2025, but nothing is certain. I’ve grown a bit tired and disillusioned with how things are evolving.

That’s why I want to express a big ‘F*** you’ to so-called ‘artists’ and label owners who fail to realize or appreciate the work I do in creating reviews and preparing interviews to spotlight them. Guys, I do this for free and in my free time! The attitude and lack of respect shown by some – fortunately a very few – is very, very sad. But, I’m afraid it reflects the world we live in. Behind a genius artist doesn’t always stand a great person. It’s odd realizing that the ‘biggest’ and long-established artists in this scene are often the most accessible.

Writing reviews remains highly subjective and a source of discussion. Remember, it’s always the reviewer’s perception. I assure you, I always strive to substantiate my reviews as best as possible. A review is subjective but must be honest!

Like every year, I’ve selected the best albums of the year 2023. This ‘TOP 25’ encompasses various styles like EBM, Dark-Electro, IDM, Synth-Pop, Ethereal, Dark-Ambient, Industrial, Ritual, Cinematic, Gothic, Post-Punk, Cold/Dark-Wave, Dark-Techno, and a few related genres. It’s always an exciting yet challenging task.

This ‘TOP 25’ is based on the promotional material I received, excluding compilations, ‘best of’ productions, EPs, and singles. So, here’s my ‘TOP 25’ from 2023, and don’t forget to share it with your friends…

Stéphane Froidcoeur (for Inferno Sound Diaries/Side-Line Reviews)

Top 25 albums of the year 2023

CERULEAN VEINS “Black” Cold Transmission Music
LIEBKNECHT “Fabrikat” Ant-Zen
FRONTIER GUARDS “Colony” Aliens Production
SOPOR AETERNUS & THE ENSEMBLE OF SHADOWS “Alone At Sam’s – An Evening With…” Apocalyptic Vision / Trisol
WAVESHARD “Waveshard” Corvus Records
THE EMPATH “Black Hole” Audiophob
VNV NATION “Electric Sun” Metropolis Records
EFF DST “Incarnate” Ant-Zen
ENZO KREFT “XL” Enzo Kreft
DELEYAMAN “The Sudbury Inn” TTO Records
GIRLS UNDER GLASS “Backdraft” Dependent Records
ALIEN VAMPIRES “Return Me To Hell” Alfa Matrix
SUN’S SPECTRUM “The Silence After The Fall” Cold Transmission Music
DANIEL MYER “Hingab” Sonic Groove
SHROUDS “Shrouds” Hands
DIARY OF DREAMS “Melancholin” Accession Records
MONO INC “Ravenblack” NoCut / SPV
ROME “Gates Of Europe” Trisol
OHNE NOMEN “The S-Witch” Cold Transmission Music
THE SEVEN WHORES OF THE APOCALYPSE “All Through The Waste” Scanner / Dark Dimensions
SPANKTHENUN “The Bunker Tapes Vol.3” SpankTheNun
BLACKCARBURNING “Watching Sleepers” COP International
GOD BODY DISCONNECT “The Weight Of Regression” Cryo Chamber
MILDREDA “Blue-Devilled” Dependent Records
PASCAL SAVY “Simulacra” Cyclic Law

Eisfabrik release title track of new album: ‘Götter in Weiß’

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:47:18 +0000

Out now is “Götter in Weiß”, the first single from the new Eisfabrik album of the same name which will be out on 29th December via the NoCut label (SPV). The music video for the single is available as well, you can watch it below.

The song describes the situation of doctors. On the one hand, they bear a great responsibility and are often faced with decisions that can mean the difference between life and death. On the other hand, they are exposed to clichés and prejudices.

The album will be released as a digipak, vinyl and a limited fan box and is now available for pre-order.

About Eisfabrik

Eisfabrik, a German electro and future-pop band, emerged in the winter of 2011/2012, and was formed by Charly Barth-Ricklefs (formerly of Shadow-Minds) and Gerrit Thomas (notably from Funker Vogt). They marked their public debut on October 4, 2014, during the 7th Darkflower Live Night in Leipzig. Early 2015 saw the establishment of their music label, Eismusik. Their debut album “When Winter Comes” was released on February 13, 2015, introducing Jan Bertram as a key member of the band. That year, Eisfabrik supported Project Pitchfork on their Blood-Tour.

By the end of 2015, the band signed a takeover contract with the label NoCut, releasing the album “Eisplanet” within the same year. Their touring ventures with Project Pitchfork and Mono Inc. garnered a wider audience, leading to their first headliner tour, “Nichtsommer-Tour,” across seven cities. The release of their third studio album “Achtzehnhundertunderfroren” coincided with the tour’s commencement. The latter half of the year saw the inception of their second headliner tour, “Kaltgebiete,” which stretched into spring 2018, marked by the release of their fourth album “Null Kelvin”.

Signing with RepoRecords in 2019, they released the EP “Rotationsausfall in der Eisfabrik.” The following year, their fifth studio album “Kryothermalmusik aus der Eisfabrik” made its debut in the German album charts. Winter 2021/2022 marked their return to NoCut label, with the release of their 6th studio album “Life Below Zero”.

Chief editor of Side-Line – which basically means I spend my days wading through a relentless flood of press releases from labels, artists, DJs, and zealous correspondents. My job? Strip out the promo nonsense, verify what’s actually real, and decide which stories make the cut and which get tossed into the digital void. Outside the news filter bubble, I’m all in for quality sushi and helping raise funds for Ukraine’s ongoing fight against the modern-day axis of evil.

Tanzwut – Silberne Hochzeit (Album – NoCut / SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Sat, 06 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Genre/Influences: Neue Deutsche Härte, Medieval-Metal.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: German formation Tanzwut has been set up twenty five years ago now. They celebrate this happening together with their fans unleashing “Silberne Hochzeit” as a retrospective to this successful career.

Content: The work brings a nice selection of Tanzwut songs which have this common element characterized by the power and melody of bagpipes. Imagine a Metal driven formation where next to guitar, the magic of bagpipes emanate. On top of it all you get German vocals by their charismatic frontman ‘Teufel’.

+ + + : Except some very early songs from their debut album we get a nice selection of ‘older’ songs and recently released material. Tanzwut has always been a very unique experience in sound because of the mix between Metal- and Medieval music; the fusion between guitar and bagpipes. Power and melody become one creating while driven by the fast cadence of the drums. “Dämmerung” and “Nein Nein” remain to me exceptional tracks illustrating the sound of Tanzwut. “Der Wächter” and “Lügner” both are other great cuts.

– – – : All over the years the band lost a bit of its initial magic although they remain very successful -mainly in their homeland.

Conclusion: A celebration opus for a very exclusive formation appealing for Metal- and Medieval fans.

Best songs: . “Dämmerung”, “Nein Nein”, “Der Wächter”, “Lügner”, “Labyrinth”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.facebook.com/TANZWUTOfficial

Label: www.nocut.de / www.facebook.com/NoCutEntertainment

Mono Inc. – Ravenblack (Album – NoCut / SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Genre/Influences: Metal-Pop, Dark-Rock, Gothic.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: Set up in 2000 Hamburger (Germany) based formation Mono Inc. strikes back with their twelfth full length album to date.The work is available in different formats and limited editions.

Content: Mono Inc. remains a very unique experience in their genre; the songs being driven by melodic, elevating choruses while empowered by guitar play. This band brings different genres together; from Pop to Rock to Metal they composed an overwhelming and professional production with the vocals of their charismatic leader Martin Engler on top. The female backings inject an extra heavenly, melodic, touch to the work. It also became a tradition Mono Inc. inviting a few guests which for “Ravenblack” are SANZ and Storm Seeker.

+ + + : In my humble opinion Mono Inc. remains a true phenomenon. First there’s the way they intermix influences creating a powerful, catchy, and melodic work. Next it remains a top notch production where every single detail has been accomplished with a similar patience and passion. Last but not least there’s the perfect match between Engler’s impressive vocals skills and female backings. The work is once more featuring multiple outstanding songs. My personal favorites are “Princess Of The Night”, “Heartbeat Of The Dead” and the softer, melancholic “Angels Never Die”. Mono Inc.’s songs have this particular elevating effect which comes through when melody and guitar are coming together in the chorus.

– – – : There’re always a few cuts which don’t reach a similar climax but there’s no real reason complaining here. I just noticed both songs sung in German aren’t my favorites.

Conclusion: Mono Inc. has already released a new masterpiece while the band remains rather unique in their genre.

Best songs: “Princess Of The Night”, “Heartbeat Of The Dead”, “Angels Never Die”, “At The End Of The Rainbow”, “Never Alone”, “After Dark”.

Rate: 9.

Artist: https://mono-inc.com / www.facebook.com/monoinc

Label: http://nocut.de / www.facebook.com/spvhannover

German gothic rock act Mono Inc. lands 12th studio album, ‘Ravenblack’ next year

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 17:43:17 +0000

Out on January 20th 2023 is the all new 12th studio album by German dark rock band Mono Inc., “Ravenblack”. The album also includes 2 German titles.

On “Ravenblack” the band was helped by label mates Storm Seeker and SANZ, who each have been brought in for a feature track. These collaborations are scheduled to be performed live together in 2023 as part of the Ravenblack Tour. Mono Inc. will go on tour to support “Ravenblack” in March (Latin America), April and May (Germany) and Europe (from September on).

Check out the Lyrics Video for “Empire”.

Mono Inc. is a German gothic rock band from Hamburg and was founded in 2000 by Miky Mono (lead vocals, bass), Carl Fornia (guitar), Chad Hauger(Cowbell) and Martin Engler (drums). Bass player Manuel Antoni joined in 2003, coinciding with the release of their self-published debut album “Head Under Water”. In 2004, the band signed with NoCut Entertainment and re-released the album with new artwork, spawning two singles: “Burn Me” and “Superman”.

During the production of their second album Temple Of The Torn in 2006, Miky Mono was replaced with Engler on vocals and Katha Mia on drums.

The rest is history.

Eisfabrik – Life Below Zero (Album – NoCut / SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Genre/Influences: Body-Pop, Future-Pop.

Format: Digital, 2CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: For their sixth full length album German formation Eisfabrik moved back to NoCut. The work features twenty songs.

Content: The sound of Eisfabrik remains the same as on previous works. It’s a constant powerful mix of stumping kicks and carrying choruses. You recognize the typical Gerrit Thomas arrangements and effects reminding me of Funker Vogt but this project is more polished and ‘softer’. On top of it all you once more will notice the charismatic vocals of Charly Barth-Ricklefs aka ‘Dr. Schnee’.

+ + + : Releasing an album of twenty songs from a high qualitative level is a true tour de force. Behind this great writing process Gerrit Thomas once more reveals his endless skills. Eisfabrik sounds pretty Funker Vogt like -just like all previous works, but the production is more polished and Pop-driven. It however remains a solid power-pop format exposed on songs like “Mirror”, “One More Tale”, “White Wings” and “Choose”. You now and then will notice a few harder EBM bass-driven bass line and aggressive sequences. But everything remains in balance by the carrying choruses.

– – – : The global production remains constantly improved but the sound becomes a little bit predictable. The few softer songs bring a break but aren’t the most convincing songs.

Conclusion: Eisfabrik remains a band with a weird image, a solid Future-Pop sound, and multiple great songs.

Best songs: “Mirror”, “One More Tale”, “White Wings”, “Choose”, “Life Below Zero”, “Lost In Endless Ice”.

Rate: 8½.

Artist: www.eismusik.de / www.facebook.com/eisfabrikofficial

Label: http://nocut.de / www.facebook.com/spventertainment

NightNight – Love Decayed (Album – Nocut / SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Genre/Influences: Ethereal-Pop.

Format: Digital.

Background/Info: “Love Decayed” is the debut album of the New-Yorker (USA) female artist New York multi-instrumentalist and producer Yasmin M. Haddad. She got a helping hand from a few guests featuring Chris Harms (Lord Of The Lost).

Content: I never heard of this project before and discovered an intriguing piece of sensual-ethereal Pop music. The songs are pretty minimal-like, composed with electronics plus guitar and violin. Yasmin M. Haddad is also taking care of the vocals which have something fragile and precious. Some songs are into a Ballad style while others are more into an evasive Electro-Pop approach reminding me of Hooverphonic.

+ + + : NightNight has something special and definitely different from established standards. It’s hard defining this project, but I experienced it as a kind of fragile-, sensual- and Ethereal-Pop format. It sounds minimal, sometimes a bit Electro-Wave like and also moving through melancholic passages. The addition of violin playing accentuates this melancholia with a deeply artistic touch. Last, but not least, the production of the vocals is also one of the album’s main characteristics.

– – – : NightNight is an original project but hard to label. So I’m really wondering which kind of audience NightNight will appeal to.

Conclusion: “Love Decayed” is an original, beautiful, sensible and fragile piece of music.

Best songs: “Down”, “Strange Dismay”, “Different”, “Leaves”.

Rate: 8.

Label: http://nocut.de / www.facebook.com/spvhannover

Tanzwut – Die Tanzwut Kehrt Zurück (Album – NoCut / SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Genre/Influences: Medieval-Metal, Folk-Metal, Neue Deutsche Härte.

Format: Digital, 2CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: Active since the late 90s and driven by their charismatic frontman ‘Teufel’ Tanzwut can look back at an impressive and successful discography. “Die tanzwut Kehrt Zurück” was originally released in the summer of 2021, but re-released with an extra disc at the end of the year.

Content: Tanzwut moves on composing solid Metal riffs and carrying Medieval- and Folk driven choruses. The Folk touch has been empowered with accordion play while the Medieval parts are accentuated by their typical ‘troubadour’ melodies and some Gregorian chants.

The bonus disc features 5 songs, a club edit, remixes and unplugged versions.

+ + + : Tanzwut sounds like Rammstein infected with Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana”, but it first of all is a very singular band with an own approach and sound. They haven’t lost their initial magic and simply move to composing Metal infused with Medieval- and Folk music. That’s why they probably are one of the most original bands from the so-called Neue Deutsche Härte. The last part of the album is great. “Berlin” is a great piece -the city remains a major source of inspiration for numerous artists. But I also have to mention the last cut “Virus” carried by Gregorian chants. Another attention grabber is “Johann”, which sounds more Rammstein-like.

– – – : The bonus disc is a cool edition, but doesn’t brings a true extra. This is just for the heaviest fans.

Conclusion: Tanzwut is still driven by fire and magic!

Best songs: “Berlin”, “Johann”, “Virus”, “Pack Schlägt Sich”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.tanzwut.com / www.facebook.com/TANZWUTOfficial

Label: http://nocut.de / www.facebook.com/spvhannover

Mono Inc. – The Book Of Fire (Album – NoCut / SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Genre/Influences: Gothic, Dark-Rock, Metal-Pop.

Format: Digital, 3CD,

Background/Info: Originally released in 2020, the latest album of the German Mono Inc. phenomena has been re-released as a box featuring the original disc plus a live disc and an extra disc with piano versions.

Content: “The Book Of Fire” totally stands for the sound and global approach of the German formation driven by their charismatic frontman Martin Engler. The songs are mixing Goth-Metal with extra carrying choruses on top. The electronic arrangements inject a melodic and somewhat Pop driven touch on top of the menacing guitar riffs. Tilo Wolff (Lacrimosa) has been featured on one of the songs.

The live album reveals the maturity of the band and the symbiotic relationship between the band and their fans. The recording features eleven live cuts getting us back to some or the band’s most famous songs.

The last disc brings us piano versions of all original songs from “The Book Of Fire”; simply piano creating a Cinematic effect.

+ + + : Mono Inc. became one of the most popular underground acts of the German Goth-Metal scene and the live disc only illustrates their leading status. “The Book Of Fire” is a great album featuring multiple outstanding songs. The success formula of this band is the perfect balance between powerful guitar play and melodic electronics. Martin Engler also is a talented singer with a charismatic voice. The songs have been accomplished with judicious sound arrangements. It’s also great to see Tilo wolf and Tanzwut being each featured in one song. “Louder Than Hell” remains my favorite song, but there are numerous cool tracks. Among the live songs I especially recommend the final cut “Children Of The Dark”. Some of the piano versions are also worth listening to listen for their evasive, Cinematic style.

– – – : I can’t imagine real minus points about this brilliant album. I just can’t understand Mono Inc. isn’t more recognized outside Germany.

Conclusion: “The Book Of Fire” is an absolute must have for the fans, but it first of all is a great and poignant production. Respect!

Best songs: “Louder Than Hell”, “Death Or Live”, “Shining Light”, “The Gods Of Love”, “Right For The Devil” + “Children Of The Dark”, “Funeral Song”, “The Banks Of Eden” + “Death Or Live”.

Rate: 9.

Artist: www.facebook.com/monoinc

Label: http://nocut.de / www.facebook.com/spvhannover

New Depeche Mode tribute album expected on NoCut label: ‘Music for Constructions’

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 18:01:42 +0000

Out via the Köthel (GER) based label NoCut on December 3rd is the 2CD Depeche Mode tribute album “Music for Constructions”. NoCut invited 31 bands, including MONO INC, AD:keY, MajorVoice, Crematory, Heimataerde, Psyche, Plastic Noise Experience, Beyond Obsession, DMK, Evo-Lution and many more for this tribute release.

All bands submitted rare tracks, most of them specially recorded for this compilation.

The tracklist:

CD1

MONO INC. – I feel You
MajorVoice – It’s no Good
Crematory – Black Celebration
Beyond Obsession – The Bottom Line
Vainerz – Insight
Blind Passenger 80s Express feat. Nigel Wheeler – Photographic
Love? – In your Memory
Darkness on Demand – Behind the Wheel
Evo-Lution – Stripped
Julian Shah Taylor – In your Room
Psyche – Lie to Me
Any Second feat. Iggi – To have and to hold
Scheuber & Wollank – Heaven
Electronic Frequency – Ice Machine
Strangelove The Depeche Mode Experience – Sister of Night

CD2

Heimataerde – Ice Machine
Plastic Noise Experience – Get the Balance right
ADkeY – Nodisco
The Promise – But not Tonight
The Psychic Force – Blasphemous Rumors
DMK – Black Celebration (2021 Poly Gore Remix)
Mauricio Tamblay – Rush
Superikone feat. Puppekopp – The Things you said
Monsmeg – Where’s the Revolution
Blue Forge – Waiting for the Night
Stage Of Theed – My Secret Garden
White Noise TV – World in My Eyes
Ha[a]rp – The Sun and the Rainfall
District 13 – The Bottom Line
Twilight-Images – Fly on the Windscreen
Diarblack – But not Tonight

‘Click Interview’ with Eisfabrik: ‘There’s Still A Lot Of Work To Reach The Next Goals’

Inferno Sound Diaries — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 17:00:00 +0000

German combo Eisfabrik was set up by singer Charly Barth-Ricklefs (‘Dr. Schnee’) and operator/producer Gerrit Thomas (‘Der Frost’; also involved with Funker Vogt ). The duo got completed on stage by Jan Bertram (Lost Area, Paragon) and René Dornbusch (Funker Vogt). The ‘icemen’ already released noticeable albums (mainly on NoCut/SPV) and has now unleashed their fifth opus “Kryothermalmusik Aus Der Eisfabrik” on RepoRecords. The songs are driven by ultra-danceable beats, elevating future-pop choruses and charismatic vocals on top. I asked a few questions about it to Gerrit Thomas.

(Courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: Eisfabrik is now active for several years, having released its first album in 2015. So what’s the balance sheet regarding aspects like albums, live shows and global evolution of the band & sound?

Gerrit: It‘s a straight process from the beginning to the present. Everything is very precisely coordinated and has always had a common thread and certain short-term goals. There had been no coincidences happening to Eisfabrik until now. So, ask me five years later for another balance sheet, I think I would tell you the same: We‘re not getting finished!

Q: The album got preceded by the EP “And Nothing Turns”, which was a rather surprising title song for being a kind of slow future-pop ballad. What made you chose this song as title track and tell us a bit more about the origin and ideas behind this song?

Gerrit: The EP is called “Rotationsausfall In Der Eisfabrik“ – “And Nothing Turns“ is just the most remixed song of this EP. So, both songs had very strong effects on all of us and it was easy to choose them for the first EP according to this release era.

“And Nothing Turns“ should show that Eisfabrik is also able to produce songs beside all the typical club stuff. And “White Sheet”, on the other hand, should be exactly that.

Q: What have been the main ideas and eventually references during the writing and recording of the new album “Kryothermalmusik Aus Der Eisfabrik”? What have been the main difficulties you encountered, eventually some songs, which didn’t work the way you wanted?

Gerrit: There had been only difficulties in the German songs we produced this time. They became extremely soft or a kind of silly or infantile. So, in the end we decided not to release them -never and anywhere! Everything else worked as we expected.

Q: You guys clearly like releasing video clips, but what’s the importance and impact of releasing clips today? What are the different stages to release a clip?

Gerrit: I think, nowadays you need a clip for presenting your actual work and to promote it. There are many platforms where you can publish your clips and do promotional ads like on Facebook, YouToube, SoundCloud or whatever. It really helps a band or a musician to get published.

Q: Gerrit, you definitely are a musician with a very own sound DNA; a very own touch you can directly recognize in the arrangements, the leads and the programming of the kicks. But what are the main differences for you composing new songs for Funker Vogt or Eisfabrik? Do you use different equipment, other tricks etc?

Gerrit: There are some secrets in the notation of the basic sequences and the drum sounds which are typical for Eisfabrik or Funker Vogt. I think you can hear them…lol.

Also there are some kinds of songs like “Gladiator“, “Bloodsucker“ or “Thor‘s Hammer“ which I wouldn‘t offer Charly to sing for Eisfabrik. They are only produced for shouters what Chris perfectly does.

Q: I always got the impression Eisfabrik ever started as a pure fun project with a crazy concept. What was it really all about and how did you see Eisfabrik evolving from album to album? And what’s the next step now?

Gerrit: Well, as I already said in the beginning of this interview, there is a certain process over the entire existing of Eisfabrik. And this will never end. For sure there are always some short-term goals. The last one for example was to enter the Official German Album Charts, the next one is to get a certain average number of ticket sales on our next tour. And so on and on. But you always have to do something for that and shouldn’t leave your aims! It’s really hard work…

Next step in order to get a bigger fan base all over the world is to play more shows in other countries. So, there’s still a lot of work to reach the next goals.

Eisfabrik – Null Kelvin (CD Album – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 20:30:06 +0000

Genre/Influences: Electro-pop, future-pop, EBM.

Background/Info: Eisfabrik is a funny, but great project driven by the genius of Gerrit Thomas (Funker Vogt). It’s ‘funny’ because of the concept around ice, snow… but still a band with a very own image and also live show performances. The members also have funny nicknames such as Dr. Schnee, Der Frost and Celsius. “Null Kelvin” is already the fourth album by Eisfabrik, which wants to bring us towards the ultimate point below zero degrees Celsius.

Content: Everything looks ‘cold’ and ‘icy’ when it concerns Eisfabrik, but the sound is definitely hotter and even sexy! “Null Kelvin” holds on the familiar sound formula revealed on previous albums. You can easily recognize the typical sounds and arrangements with the stamp of Gerrit Thomas on top, but now in a softer and even pop-driven approach. The vocals are pure electro-pop like and once again reminding me of Ronan Harris. So in the end “Null Kelvin” already sounds like the imaginary offspring between Funker Vogt and VNV Nation, Neurotichfish and related formations.

+ + + : Eisfabrik is something apart from the classical electro/future-pop scene and not really an EBM formation. This formation operates somewhere in between and that’s precisely what makes the attraction of the music reinforced by an original image. It’s the kind of music that might appeal for a wider audience, but first of all to music lovers who like to dance. If you consider Eisfabrik as an electro-pop formation they definitely belong to the most powerful acts in this scene. The pumping kicks, icy sequences and carrying leads reinforced by great vocals make this album hot and sexy. There are several noticeable songs featured here, but I especially want to mention the somewhat disco-pop driven “Too Many Miles”.

– – – : Eisfabrik hasn’t changed its sound formula and I think there’s no reason for that, but the initial magic is a bit gone. The songs become a bit predictable and that’s an aspect this prolific formation (4 albums in 3 years) maybe has to reconsider on future productions.

Conclusion: If you like snow and ice and you like to go on Winter sports, you better try Eisfabrik, which is an energetic sonic dance unity that will get you into a frenetic dance!

Best songs: “Too Many Miles”, “Brother”, “Schneemann”, “Soon Enough”.

Rate: (8).

Band: www .eismusik .de / www .facebook .com /eisfabrikofficial

Label: www .spv .de / http ://de –de .facebook .com /spvhannover

Palast – Palast (CD Album – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Wed, 06 Dec 2017 19:30:35 +0000

Genre/Influences: Electro-rock, pop-rock, new-wave.

Background/Info: 2017 has been a major year for German Palast trio. They released this self-entitled debut full length and went on tour as support act for Mono Inc.

Content: Palast moves on there where they stopped on their previously released “Hush”-EP. The sound is a mix of multiple influences and played by electronics and guitar. Some of the tracks are getting back to the 80s vaguely evoking an imaginary hybrid between Duran Duran and Gary Numan while other cuts are more into a mix of new-wave and rock music.

+ + + : “Palast” is a quite accessible work, which has the power to seduce numerous music lovers. That’s because of the perfect assimilation of all influences, which will now please new-wave lovers and then music fans listening to pop & rock music. The songs are entertaining while I especially love “When You Fall” for the opening part reminding me to U2 (cf. “New Year’s Day”) and progressively evolving into a powerful pop song carried by great guitar play. I also like some bombastic arrangements in the global drums production. Last, but not least this band is also driven by a talented singer.

– – – : “Palast” reveals cool songs, but I’m missing some details especially in the choruses. Some extra melodic lines would have made it more accomplished.

Conclusion: Palast awakens some good-old souvenirs and has achieved an enjoyable work although without a climax.

Best songs: “When You Fall”, “Nightfall”.

Rate: (6½).

Band: https ://www .palastband .com / www .facebook .com /palastband

Label: www .spv .de / http ://de –de .facebook .com /spvhannover

Stoneman – Steine (CD Album – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 19:00:43 +0000

Genre/Influences: Goth-metal, metal-pop.

Background/Info: The Swiss Stoneman formation is back on track unleashing their fifth opus to date and the first one on NoCut. The earlier work was mainly released on Twilight while the previous opus (cf. “Goldmarie”) got released in 2014 on Danse Macabre.

Content: “Steine” rather starts off in a metal-oriented way revealing solid and alluring guitar riffs mixed with gothic atmospheres. The vocals were sung in German, which together with the epic arrangements and powerful guitar riffs sound like evoking the spirit of Rammstein.

The more you enter the universe of “Steine” the more you’ll notice melodic arrangements, which makes me speak about certain pop refinement empowered by metal music.

+ + + : The album is carried by an impressive sound production revealing a professional approach. The songs are fully entertaining merging power and melody lines. Some of the most powerful cuts are evoking the sound and approach of Rammstein and I here especially like the epic orchestration, but I also enjoy the more melodic pieces accomplished with cool melody lines. Songs such as “Eiskalt” and “Spiegelficker” both are noticeable cuts in the genre.

– – – : There are a few slow cuts on this album, which are less convincing. The title song is one of them and in my opinion definitely not the best exposure of this album. I also regret a few cuts remain pretty short, not going over 4 minutes.

Conclusion: Stoneman has the look and an interesting sound, which I can imagine will especially in their homeland, and of course in Germany, get audiences wild. “Steine” sounds cool and will possibly catch the attention of Rammstein fans although it doesn’t bring that much new.

Best songs: “Kofferlied”, “Wenn Der Teufel”, “Kaltes Klares Wasser”.

Rate: (7).

Band: www .stonemanmusic .ch / www .facebook .com /stonemanmusic

Label: http ://nocut .de / www .facebook .com /spvhannover

Palast – Hush (CD EP – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 19:00:13 +0000

Genre/Influences: Electro-rock, psychedelic-pop.

Background/Info: Palast is a German formation I remember from the last year released sampler “Electrostorm Vol.7” (Out Of Line) on, which they were the opening band with the song “Just Friends”. The band now signed to NoCut/SPV unleashing their debut release featuring 5 tracks.

Content: Palast clearly deals with pop music, which has been composed with electronics and guitar The guitar parts inject a somewhat evasive and especially psychedelic touch to the work. “Hush” is a mix between different influences, which can be summarized as ‘electro-rock’ while there are some 80s influences emerging at the surface of a few cuts.

+ + + : “Palast” clearly doesn’t sound like a new ‘pop’ copy although they don’t really bring anything new. I especially like the guitar for its psychedelic flavor, which makes the originality of the album. One of the main strengths is their singer, which is a talented vocalist revealing all his skills on “Crucify” and “Just Friends”. I like an EP featuring 5 different songs, which reminds me of the good-old 80s.

– – – : “Hush” is the title- and final song of this production, but it’s not exactly my favorite cut. It sounds like the hardest piece of the work, but globally speaking I’m missing a real title song on this EP.

Conclusion: “Hush” is an easy listening work revealing a band with an original output, but which is missing a hit to get into the spotlight. Let’s wait for more work –and maybe an album, to get a better idea about their potential.

Best songs: “Just Friends”, “Get Me”.

Rate: (6).

Band: www .palastband .com / www .facebook .com /palastband

Label: http ://nocut .de / www .facebook .com /spvhannover

Mono Inc. – Together Till The End (DCD Album – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 19:30:50 +0000

Genre/Influences: Dark-rock, metal, gothic.

Background/Info: Singer Martin Engler and his acolytes are back on track unleashing the ninth studio album of Mono Inc. The German formation became one of the most noticeable bands from the German goth-metal & alternative rock scene. The new work features a new opus with 12 songs and an extra disc featuring surprising remixes.

Content: Mono Inc. never stopped their progression throughout the years. “Together Till The End” is an invitation to embark on a powerful and melodic trip constantly mixing elements of dark and alternative rock, metal riffs and melodic gothic melody lines. The overwhelming choruses are one of the main characteristics of this new opus, while in a way being the band’s trademark.

The power has been mixed with delicate arrangements and charismatic vocals, but still feature a few surprising contributions from Ronan Harris (VNV Nation) and another tracks featuring Tilo Wolff (Lacrimosa), Joachim Witt and Chris Harms (Lord Of The Lost).

The bonus CD mainly consists of some surprising remixes by bands such as Palast, Solitary Experiments, Faderhead, Eisfabrik and Blitzmaschine. It’s quite surprising to discover the original songs transposed in mainly pop-orientated versions. You also will discover a live, unplugged song plus the original versions of both songs featuring the aforementioned guest singers.

+ + + : “Together Till The End” is a true masterpiece revealing a perfect balance between power, melodies and sensibility, but still a perfect match between orchestral/epic arrangements and subtle sound treatments. Mono Inc. realized a tour de force inviting Ronan Harris to sing on the beautiful “Boatman” and a trio of famous guests on “Children Of The Dark”. The global production is absolutely amazing while the album is filled with numerous potential hits. “Together Till The End” is an accomplished piece carried by great musicians and a charismatic singer.

The bonus disc transposes most of the original songs into a surprising electronic-pop approach. Most of the remixes have been made by label mates. I was deeply impressed by the remixes of Eisfabrik and Blitzmaschine.

– – – : This album will become without a shadow of a doubt one of the best productions of 2017 so I don’t have any negative points. I just can imagine that some fans will be a bit disappointed by the electronic remixes from the bonus disc.

Conclusion: You have numerous great albums, but not many outstanding pieces. “Together Till The End” is an album I can’t get enough from so it definitely is a masterpiece!

Best songs: “There Comes A Time (Back to Life)”, “Children Of The Dark”, “Boatman”, “Out In The Fields”, “The Banks Of Eden” + “Across The Waves – Takatiktok Mix by Eisfabrik”, “This Is My Life – Kondensat Remix by Blitzmaschine”.

Rate: (9).

Band: www .mono –inc .com / www .facebook .com /monoinc

Label: http ://nocut .de / www .facebook .com /spvhannover

‘Click Interview’ with Eisfabrik: ‘We Certainly Want To Enforce Our Own Image By Different Visual Effects’

Inferno Sound Diaries — Sun, 19 Feb 2017 19:15:50 +0000

First time I heard Eisfabrik I got instantly seduced by their powerful mix of dark-electronics and future-pop. Regarding to their concept it for sure is one of the craziest bands I’ve seen in years, but still one of the most original ones composing great music. They have released their third album “Achtzehnhundertunderfroren” on NoCut/SPV a few months ago, which was a very good reason to get in touch with ‘Der Frost’.

(by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: Let’s start with a traditional question, how did you get in touch with each other and decided to set up Eisfabrik?

Der Frost: Dr. Schnee and me know each other since 2011. He was the lead singer of a band with which I was on tour with my own band. We kept our contacts, so once during the next Winter he sent me a song with his vocals. The original song was an old instrumental one from one of my former bands. I was very impressed what he made out of this, so we started to make some songs together.

We both knew Celsius from different activities in the past and noticed that he left his old band. A third guy who likes stage performing, managing and all the organization stuff he uses to do, could be very useful for us. Furthermore he’s a very nice and cool guy! So Eisfabrik was found.

Q: When I first heard Eisfabrik I thought it was a new band set up by… Funker Vogt and Assemblage 23! What are the real sources of inspiration and what kind of sound did you have in mind?

Der Frost: I always try to make a kind of dance music with a cool sound and catchy melodies. My roots are in the electronic scene since over 25 years. That’s why it’s not surprising that our sound may offer some similarities to any other band. But I think that our sound has its own face, also because of Dr. Schnee’s voice which is very unique, I think.

Q: There clearly is a kind of original concept behind Eisfabrik, which we find back in your nicknames, but still in most of the titles. Where did you get this idea from and is there any deeper meaning?

Der Frost: As we were searching for a name for this band, we just listed up what we thought about our sound and our whole impressions to this. We thought that the sound had a certain coldness which made us think about words like ‘snow’, ‘ice’ and so on (German = ‘Schnee’, ‘Eis’). And the fact that everything is made with machines made us recalling the term ‘factory’ (German = ‘Fabrik’). So it ended in the very suitable name Eisfabrik. All the image and lyrics are built on this.

Q: The concept is also present on stage, which I think is important for the show and the audience! What did you try to express on stage and can you already reveal some details about the upcoming tour?

Der Frost: We certainly want to enforce our own image by different visual effects. Therefore everything looks cold and somehow futuristic. Beside some basic light stuff there are effects like for example a walking robot which is about 2.5 meters high. A Yeti is running and dancing on stage. It also may snow, if we’re in the house. And also a few things more which will give our show this icy feeling.

Q: How do you look back on the albums “When Winter Comes”, “Eisplanet” and “Achtzehnhundertunderfroren”? Do you see an evolution in sound & production?

Der Frost: Of course, our sound has become more dense and even more compact over the years. It seems that everything does fit perfectly together at the moment. But I think I will say this in two years again and in four years also and so on…

Q: The new album “Achtzehnhundertunderfroren” has been released a few months ago now so do you see some elements in the production you want to improve or maybe arrange a different way on the further album?

Der Frost: I think every musician becomes gradually more professional sounding song by song he or she creates. You don’t notice these very little steps by yourself. Maybe not even from album to album. For the moment I don’t know what I will improve in the future. But I’m sure there will be something.

Courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries

Eisfabrik – Achtzehnhundertunderfroren (CD Album – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 19:45:11 +0000

Genre/Influences: Dark-electro & future-pop.

Background/Info: Last year the German band Eisfabrik took me by surprise unleashing a phenomenal album entitled “Eisplanet”. ‘Dr. Schnee’, ‘Der Frost’ and ‘Celsius’ sounds like a crazy trio, but composing great electronics. We now welcome “Achtzehnhundertunderfroren” revealing 12 new songs.

Content: The sound formula of Eisfabrik hasn’t changed and once again mixes elements of dark-electro and future-pop. Sound-wise I would swear to have heard a new project of Gerrit Thomas (Funker Vogt) while some vocal parts remind me of Ronan Harris (VNV Nation). Eisfabrik composes a mix between hard electronics and a more melodic side empowered by alluring vocals.

They have this strange fascination for ‘ice’, ‘frost’ and ‘cold’, but the music will push you to dance and to get warm. There are multiple outstanding pieces, which have been accomplished by solid rhythms, little, icy bleeps, carrying leads and charismatic vocals.

+ + + : Eisfabrik doesn’t reinvent any electro-underground style, but has found a secret recipe to mix Funker Vogt together with VNV Nation. In the end it’s just Eisfabrik! I was impressed by the songwriting built up with numerous noticeable sounds and a nearly constant danceable cadence. The vocals by Dr. Schnee add a powerful and somewhat pop-minded touch to the composition. The debut part is absolutely sensational revealing multiple potential hits and the noticeable “Hell Is Made Of Ice” revealing a kind of visionary acid-pop sound.

– – – : There’s no real evolution compared to their previous work, but it here consists of a rather ‘new’ band so there’s no real reason to complain. I just regret a few softer cuts, which are cool, but are not an added value.

Conclusion: After their previous great opus I was rather wondering how this new work of Eisfabrik would sound like and the least I can say is that I haven’t been disappointed. The ‘icemen’ from Hannover simply confirms to be one of the ‘hottest’ electro formations of the past 2-3 years.

Best songs: “Hell Is Made Of Ice”, “A Murdered Love”, “Sensations Of Pain”, “Millenium Find”, “The Coldest Summer”.

Rate: (8½).

Band: www .eismusik .de / www .facebook .com /eisfabrikofficial

Label: www .spv .de / http ://de –de .facebook .com /spvhannover

Eisfabrik – Walking Towards The Sun (CD EP – NoCut/SPV)

Inferno Sound Diaries — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 21:15:18 +0000

Genre/Influences: Future-pop, electro-pop.

Background/Info: Last year Eisfabrik took the electro-pop community with a surprise unleashing of the magnificent “Eisplanet”-album. I experienced this opus as the offspring between VNV Nation and Neuroticfish for the future-pop implementation and Funker Vogt for the harder sequences and danceable kick.

Content: The title song of the EP was one of the highlights from the album while the B-side cut “Cry For You” was another attention grabber.

The “Single Mix” doesn’t deliver anything new, but it’s an opportunity to get back to this kicking song driven by danceable vibes, a typical future-pop lead and charismatic vocal parts.

Among the 3 remixes there’s a noticeable version by Project Pitchfork and a harder guitar-driven “Hell Boulevard Version”. The least I can say is that there’s an interesting diversity between the remixes.

The “Frosty’s Minimix” of “Cry For You” is another smashing cut, which reminds me of Funker Vogt for the solid lead and stumping cadence.

+ + + : “Walking Towards The Sun” is the right song to get released as the EP-title song. The Project Pitchfork-remix will for sure catch the attention of numerous music lovers. This EP reveals a great diversity.

– – – : I can’t really say to have discovered new things. This EP is an item for the biggest fans.

Conclusion: If you don’t know Eisfabrik, this EP will for sure give you a good idea of the band’s potential. This is great contemporary future-pop music.

Best songs: “Walking Towards The Sun – Single Mix”, “Walking Towards The Sun – Hell Boulevard Mix”.

Rate: (7½).

Band: www .eismusik .de / www .facebook .com /eisfabrikofficial

Label: www .spv .de / http ://de –de .facebook .com /spvhannover

TOP 20 best albums of 2015 (By Stéphane Froidcoeur)

Bernard - Side-Line Staff — Thu, 31 Dec 2015 17:07:00 +0000

(By Stéphane Froidcoeur aka Deranged Psyche) 2015 has been already a prolific year for the section Side-Line Reviews. As head of the Side-Line Reviews section I can only, but be extremely satisfied with the huge amount of promo material we got. Over the 700 (!) releases were selected while nearly 550 (!) have been reviewed thus far. I take the opportunity to express my gratitude to all labels, promoters and bands considering and respecting our work and efforts and this for years now.

But I also have to thank all of our readers because for their interest, support, trust and consideration. It’s a very important source of motivation to keep me moving on trying to support our lovely underground scene the best I can.

A review of course remains always ‘subjective’ and a source of discussion, but keep in mind it will be always the perception of the reviewer, but I can assure you we always try to argue our reviews the best as possible. I noticed multiple great releases during 2015; from EBM to dark-electro to IDM to synth-pop to ethereal, to dark-ambient to industrial to gothic and a few related genres I made a TOP 20 of the best albums of 2015! This selection has been made with the promotional material we got while compilations and EP’s were not selected for this ‘best of’.

Stéphane Froidcoeur (aka Deranged Psyche)

01 Irfan – The Eternal Return (CD Album – Prikosnovénie)
02 Neuroticfish – A Sign Of Life (CD Album – NOR)
03 Acylum – Pest (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)
04 Eisfabrik – Eisplanet (CD Album & EP – SPV/NoCut)
05 Senking – Closing Eyes (CD Album – Raster-Noton)
06 Ah Cama-Sotz – State Of Mind (CD Album – Hands)
07 Karjalan Sissit – …Want You Dead (CD Album – Cyclic Law)
08 Alien Vampires – Drag You To Hell (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)
09 Supersimmetria – Kosmogonie (CD Album – Hands)
10 Johan Baeckström – Like Before (CD Album – Progress Productions)
11 Hearts Of Black Science – Signal (CD Album – Progress Productions)
12 Dear Strange – Lonely Heroes (CD Album – Out Of Line)
13 IAMX – Metanoia (CD Album – Caroline International)
14 Legiac – The Faex Had Decimated (CD Album – Tympanik Audio)
15 Grand((Ø))Signal – Aktivation (Digital Album – Grand((Ø))Signal)
16 Encephalon – Psychogenesis (CD Album – Dependent)
17 Noisuf-X – 10 Years Of Riot (DCD Album – ProNoize)
18 Star Industry – The Renegade (DCD Album – Alfa Matrix)
19 Chainreactor – Dirt (CD Album – ProNoize)
20 Frozen Plasma – Dekadenz (CD Album – Infacted Recordings)