Out Of Line – SIDE-LINE https://www.side-line.com Industrial, electro, EBM, post-punk, darkwave news Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:26:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-side-line-logo-png-32x32.png Out Of Line – SIDE-LINE https://www.side-line.com 32 32 Suicide Commando’s ‘Critical Stage’ turns 32 on 1 August https://www.side-line.com/suicide-commando-critical-stage-anniversary/ Sat, 01 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/suicide-commando-critical-stage-anniversary/ Suicide Commando's debut album "Critical Stage" turns 32 on 1 August. The 1994 Off Beat release features 12 tracks and a guest vocal from Dirk Ivens.]]>

Suicide Commando, the Belgian electro-industrial project of Johan Van Roy, released its debut album Critical Stage on 1 August 1994 through the German label Off Beat. The CD turns 32 this year.

“Critical Stage” contains 12 tracks, all written and performed by Van Roy, recorded and mixed by Eric Van Wonterghem at E.M.P.-studio. Cover design and layout came from Beyond > Mixed Data and Koen Cant. Track ten, “Where Do We Go From Here?”, carries voice and lyrics by Dirk Ivens, known from Dive, The Klinik and Absolute Body Control. Off Beat, a division of the German company Westcom, distributed the album through SPV GmbH.

The original CD is out of print. The album can be streamed today via Bandcamp as part of “The Suicide Sessions 1 (Critical Stage)”, a 2011 reissue that restores the original twelve tracks alongside eleven bonus recordings. Out Of Line reissued “Critical Stage” separately on limited red and yellow vinyl in 2025.

About Suicide Commando

Johan Van Roy started experimenting with electronic music in Belgium in 1986 under the name Suicide Commando. His first tape followed two years later, and a track from it appeared on the vinyl compilation “Electronic.” After several more self-released tapes, Off Beat signed Van Roy, and Suicide Commando’s debut album, “Critical Stage,” followed in 1994.

A second album, “Stored Images,” arrived in 1995 and included “See You in Hell.” In 1996, Van Roy marked the project’s tenth anniversary with the compilation “Contamination.” “Construct-Destruct” and its companion release “Reconstruction” followed in 1998, carrying the club tracks “Desire” and “Better Off Dead.”

Van Roy co-founded the label Dependent in 1999. Suicide Commando’s next studio album, “Mindstrip” (2000), reached number one on the German Alternative Charts and was licensed for North America by Metropolis Records. Dependent also released the singles “Hellraiser” and “Comatose Delusion,” the EP “Love Breeds Suicide,” and the 2002 compilation “Anthology.” The 2003 album “Axis of Evil” was voted album of the year by the Deutsche Alternative Charts.

“Bind, Torture, Kill” followed in 2006, preceded by the single “Godsend + Menschenfresser,” and reached number one on the DAC albums chart. Suicide Commando marked its 20th anniversary in 2007 with the “X20” boxset, including a remix disc, a “best of” disc, the “Fuck You Bitch” EP and the project’s first live DVD. In 2009, Van Roy signed with the German label Out Of Line, starting with the 7″ “Severed Head / Until We Die.” The album “Implements of Hell” followed in 2010, again licensed to Metropolis Records in the US.

In 2011, Suicide Commando reissued its first three studio albums, “Critical Stage,” “Stored Images” and “Construct-Destruct,” as the six-CD box “The Suicide Sessions,” each remastered and paired with a disc of bonus and previously unreleased material. “When Evil Speaks” followed in 2013, led by the single “Attention Whore” and reaching number 47 on the German Media Control Charts. “Forest of the Impaled” (2017) included “The Pain That You Like,” a single featuring Jean-Luc De Meyer of Front 242 as guest vocalist, and reached number 28 on the same chart. Suicide Commando released the album “Goddestruktor” in 2022. For live shows, Van Roy performs alongside Torben Schmidt on keyboards and Mario Vaerewijck on drums. “Critical Stage,” the album that started the project’s studio discography, turns 32 on 1 August.

]]> Out Of Line launches KiT Album collection for 30th anniversary https://www.side-line.com/out-of-line-kit-album-collection/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 15:13:34 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=87921 Out Of Line Music marks its 30th anniversary by reissuing eight catalogue albums in the KiT Album format with Muzlive and Cargo Records.]]>

Berlin label Out Of Line Music has reissued eight catalogue albums as KiT Albums, a hybrid physical-digital format. The Out Of Line KiT Album collection marks the label’s 30th anniversary and arrives through a partnership with KiT developer Muzlive and European distributor Cargo Records. The selected titles include releases by Suicide Commando, Blutengel and And One.

KiTbetter, a subsidiary of South Korean media-technology company Muzlive, produces the KiT Album: a keepsake box of collectibles and a pocket-sized KiT device that unlocks high-fidelity audio, video and fan content on a smartphone or tablet through U-NFC technology. Muzlive states that KiT Albums have sold close to 10 million units worldwide since 2017, and the format counts as a physical release on charts including the UK Official Chart and the German Offizielle Deutsche Charts. Cargo Records is Muzlive’s exclusive distribution partner in Europe.

The label drew eight albums from its back catalogue, with named titles including releases by Suicide Commando, Blutengel, And One, Combichrist and Hocico. Out Of Line first used the format for Till Lindemann’s 2025 album “Zunge” before extending it to the catalogue selection. The label said it “hand-picked eight catalogue gems to bring back to life in the KiT format.” Recent Out Of Line releases by these acts include Combichrist’s “The Venom In The Mouth Of God”, the Suicide Commando EP “Final Stage” and the Blutengel single “The Devil”. The KiT Album collection is presented via Out Of Line.

About Out Of Line Music

Out Of Line Music is a Berlin independent label founded in 1995, working across EBM, electro-industrial, darkwave and related electronic styles. Its roster and catalogue include long-running acts such as Suicide Commando, And One, Combichrist, Hocico and Blutengel. The label reached its 30th anniversary in 2026 and has used the milestone to revisit its catalogue, with the KiT Album collection pairing eight of those releases with the physical-digital format.

]]> Motor!k – 5 (Digital/CD/Vinyl – Out Of Line)                                                                                                                                        https://www.side-line.com/motork-5-digital-cd-vinyl-out-of-line/ Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=64057 The Belgian trio Motor!k returns with their fifth EP, simply titled “5”. Featuring Joeri Dobbeleir,...]]>

The Belgian trio Motor!k returns with their fifth EP, simply titled “5”. Featuring Joeri Dobbeleir, Dries D’Hollander, and Belgian Electro/Industrial legend Dirk Ivens, the EP offers 6 brand-new tracks. Stylistically, the band stays true to their established sound, delivering pure instrumental music often classified as Krautrock. The EP blends psychedelic guitars, dynamic drum sections, and mesmerizing electronic elements into a captivating, almost transcendental experience. Despite its dark, powerful atmosphere and psychedelic undertones, “5” feels more suited for wild dancing than laid-back lounging. With the exception of one weaker track, the EP delivers some of the band’s strongest material yet, making “5” arguably Motor!k’s best release to date. (Rating:8½).

Listen to “Shadows”:

About Motor!k

Motor!k is a Belgian Krautrock formation set up in 2018 by Joeri Dobbeleir (guitar and synths), Dries D’Hollander (drums) and Dirk Ivens (guitar and effects). Ivens is also known from The Klinik and Absolute Body Control, while D’Hollander previously drummed for Suburb Songs, one of Dobbeleir’s earlier bands.

The trio released its self-titled debut album in 2019 on Out Of Line, followed by the albums “Motor!k 2”, “3” and “4”. In 2021, Joeri Dobbeleir talked about the band’s formation and working methods in Side-Line’s Click Interview with MOTOR!K.

“5”, released in 2024 as a digital, CD and vinyl release on Out Of Line, is the trio’s fifth release and includes the track “Shadows”.

]]> Chris Pohl (Blutengel) to launch 3rd LP by She Hates Emotions: ‘Future unknown’ https://www.side-line.com/chris-pohl-blutengel-to-launch-3rd-lp-by-she-hates-emotions-future-unknown/ Wed, 21 Aug 2024 06:39:22 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=51521 Out October 4th via Out Of Line is “Future unknown”, the 3rd album of that...]]>

Out October 4th via Out Of Line is “Future unknown”, the 3rd album of that other Chris Pohl (Blutengel) project She Hates Emotions. The album follows the earlier released albums “Melancholic Maniac” (2020) and “Happy Pop Music” (2022).

The 11-track strong album also features Marc of Massive on one song (“Lowest of the Low”).

Pohl launched She Hates Emotions in 2019 as a way to explore his love for 80s synthpop and minimalistic electronic music in a more focused and nostalgic manner.

You can already check out two videoclips below.

“Dirty little Secrets”

“Don’t you think?” Read the review of ‘Future Unknown’.

]]> Blutengel and Solar Fake release joint single ‘Nothing Left’ – Out now https://www.side-line.com/blutengel-and-solar-fake-release-joint-single-nothing-left-out-now/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:38:30 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=50656 Out now is a joint single from Blutengel and Solar Fake: “Nothing Left”, see the...]]>

Out now is a joint single from Blutengel and Solar Fake: “Nothing Left”, see the video below. Released through Out of Line Music the collaboration features Chris Pohl of Blutengel and Sven Friedrich of Solar Fake. Chris composed the music, while Sven penned the lyrics.

The EP includes five additional remixes by JanRevolution, Pseudokrupp Project, Scheuber, Wisborg, and Neuroticfish. This release is available in both physical CD format and a limited edition golden vinyl.

On July 20, Blutengel and Solar Fake will perform live at the Dark Summer Open Air at Wasserschloss Klaffenbach in Chemnitz, offering fans a chance to experience their new collaboration live.

About Blutengel and Solar Fake

Blutengel, formed in 1998 by Chris Pohl in Berlin, Germany, is known for its dark pop sound that combines electronic beats, gothic rock, and dark lyrics. The band’s themes often explore love, betrayal, heartbreak, vampirism, and immortality. Over the years, Blutengel has seen several lineup changes but remains led by Chris Pohl and current member Ulrike Goldmann.

Solar Fake, founded by Sven Friedrich in 2007, is a German electronic music project. The band quickly gained popularity with its debut album “Broken Grid” and is known for its energetic synthpop and electro-industrial sound. Sven Friedrich is also known for his work with bands Zeraphine and Dreadful Shadows.

]]> CHROM releases new single and video: ‘Paralysed’ https://www.side-line.com/chrom-releases-new-single-and-video-paralysed/ Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:16:49 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=50543 The German synth/electro act CHROM returns with a new single, “Paralysed”, via Out of Line...]]>

The German synth/electro act CHROM returns with a new single, “Paralysed”, via Out of Line Music. The track is available now for streaming and download.

Formed in 2007 by Christian Marquis and Thomas Winters, CHROM blends synth pop, EBM, and club-electro. The band’s name combines the first letters of their names: Christian and Thomas. Their discography includes several releases such as “Manufactured EP” (2008), “Electroscope” (2010), “Synthetic Movement” (2012), “Regret & Testify Singln” (2014), and “Peak & Decay” (2016).

Here’s the video for “Paralysed”.

CHROM live on tour

  • 18.10.2024 Subkultur – Hannover
  • 29.11.2024 Plage Noire Festival – Weissenhäuser Strand
  • 25.12.2024 Dark Storm Festival – Chemnitz
  • 22.03.2024 Etropolis Festival – Oberhausen
]]> Ashbury Heights presents new album, ‘Ghost House Sessions – Vol. 1’, featuring 25 tracks https://www.side-line.com/ashbury-heights-presents-new-album-ghost-house-sessions-vol-1-featuring-25-tracks/ Mon, 15 Jul 2024 07:22:07 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=50526 Out on August 9th via Out of Line is the all new album from Swedish...]]>

Out on August 9th via Out of Line is the all new album from Swedish electro/synth-pop act Ashbury Heights, “Ghost House Sessions – Vol. 1”. “Ghost House Sessions – Vol. 1” is the band’s first new album since 2018’s “The Victorian Wallflowers”.

The new longplayer contains 25 tracks of which 15 will be also available on a limited edition ‘glow in the dark’ double vinyl and 25 on a double CD including 10 bonus tracks which are previously released digital only singles.

The album also contains a number of collaborations with singers and projects such as Massive Ego, Ulrike Goldmann (Blutengel), Corlyx, Madil Hardis, Alia Synesthesia and others.

“The past years have been incredibly inspiring. There have been incredible highs and devastating lows. That roller coaster is now being shaped into music”, says the band’s founder Anders Hagström.

Check out the video for “Ghosts Electric” below, followed by “Wild Eyes“.

About Ashbury Heights

Ashbury Heights is a Swedish electronic music duo from Sundsvall, Medelpad, and formed in 2005. The original lineup consisted of Anders Hagström (vocals, songwriting, music, and programming) and Yasmine Uhlin (vocals). Uhlin left after their EP “Morning Star in a Black Car” and was replaced by Kari Berg, who featured on their album “Take Cair Paramour” in 2010. The band faced a temporary disbandment due to disputes with their label, Out of Line, but reformed in 2011 with Hagström and a new vocalist, Tea F. Thimé.

Ashbury Heights’ sound is characterized by a mix of synthpop, futurepop, and electropop. Their discography includes several studio albums, such as “Three Cheers for the Newlydeads” (2007), “The Looking Glass Society” (2015), and “The Victorian Wallflowers” (2018).

]]> Combichrist – Cmbcrst (Double album-Digital/CD/Vinyl/Cassette – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/combichrist-cmbcrst-double-album-digital-cd-vinyl-cassette-out-of-line/ Sun, 14 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=50503 Five years after the last album, “Cmbcrst” stands for a fierce and brutal experience. This...]]>

Five years after the last album, “Cmbcrst” stands for a fierce and brutal experience. This is pure Industrial/Electro-Metal with a perfect balance between guitar sounds and menacing electronic sequences carried by menacing bass lines. Some songs are truly furious as if possessed by an imaginary sonic devil. The devil is represented by the hellish vocals of front man Andy LaPlegua. The first disc sounds incredible, while the additional album takes a very Cinematic approach and therefore sounds completely different. (Rate:9)

Listen to “Only Death Is Immortal”:

Read the news on ‘Cmbcrst’.

About Combichrist

Combichrist is an aggrotech and industrial metal project formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 2003 by Norwegian vocalist Andy LaPlegua. LaPlegua had already worked with Icon of Coil, Panzer AG, Scandy and Scandinavian Cock. The studio project is centered on LaPlegua, with a changing live lineup. Current listed members are Andy LaPlegua, Eric13, Elliott Berlin and Jamie Cronander.

The project’s first material developed from the track “Thanx to my Buddies”, originally written under the name D.r.i.v.E. The name later changed to Hudlager and then Combichrist before the debut album “The Joy of Gunz” appeared on Out Of Line in 2003. It was followed by “Kiss The Blade”, also in 2003, “Blut Royale” and “Sex, Drogen Und Industrial” in 2004, and “Get Your Body Beat” in 2006.

The next studio albums included “Everybody Hates You” in 2005, “What the Fuck Is Wrong with You People?” in 2007, “Today We Are All Demons” in 2009, “Making Monsters” in 2010, “No Redemption” in 2013, “We Love You” in 2014, “This Is Where Death Begins” in 2016, “One Fire” in 2019 and “Cmbcrst” in 2024. Note that “No Redemption” was released as the official “DmC: Devil May Cry” soundtrack.

“Cmbcrst”, reviewed here, is Combichrist’s first studio album in five years.

]]> Project TrES-2b – When Human Life Begins (Album-Digital/CD – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/project-tres-2b-when-human-life-begins-album-digital-cd-out-of-line/ Sun, 14 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=50506 Project TrES-2b is a new project by Amduscia-front man Polo Acevedo. The influences remain Electronic,...]]>

Project TrES-2b is a new project by Amduscia-front man Polo Acevedo. The influences remain Electronic, but this music represents the Mexican artist’s passion for the cosmos. It sounds very astral and even creates a transcendental sensation. The pitched vocals and other sporadic, female, chants strengthen the astral dimension of the work.  A dark, floating yet exhilarating experience. (Rate:7½).

Listen to “Reborn”:

About Project TrES-2b

Project TrES-2b is a solo venture by Polo Acevedo of Amduscia, moving from his main project’s Electronic sound into techno and cosmic-themed music. The project takes its influences from Polo’s work as a DJ in the techno collective BPM Colectivo, drawing on the classic techno rhythms of Jean-Michel Jarre and the deep, cosmic sounds of Alex O’Rion.

Project TrES-2b debuted on Out Of Line Music with the single “The Day Before”, the first release off the album “When Human Life Begins”, reviewed here.

]]> Massive Ego returns with ‘In Your Own Darkness’ single – Out now https://www.side-line.com/massive-ego-returns-with-in-your-own-darkness-single-out-now/ Fri, 21 Jun 2024 10:18:16 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=50162 Out via Out Of Line Music is the all new single from Massive Ego, “In...]]>

Out via Out Of Line Music is the all new single from Massive Ego, “In Your Own Darkness”. For the British band led by Marc Massive, it’s their comeback after a two-year hiatus, marked by Marc’s mental health journey and a departure from public life.

Joining Marc and drummer Olly Frost are new member Porl Young, a former member of the goth band Rosetta Stone, and returning keyboardist Lloyd Price.

The comeback single symbolizes Massive’s cathartic return to songwriting. Marc shared that it was a transformative experience to create music again, shedding the past and the persona that once defined him. “Lyrically, the new single is a somewhat personal song,” singer Marc Massive shared, “I realised if I was to come back, I needed to do everything differently this time. And that meant leaving the past behind, and no longer feeling like I needed to hide behind the ‘wig and make-up’ that I’d become known for, and ultimately became a prison of my own making”.

Watch and stream “In Your Own Darkness” below.

]]> Combichrist returns with all new double-album ‘CMBCRST’, also on zoetrope vinyl https://www.side-line.com/combichrist-returns-with-all-new-double-album-cmbcrst-also-on-zoetrope-vinyl/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:14:10 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=48893 Out on May 17 is the all new Combichrist album “CMBCRST”. The CD edition comes...]]>

Out on May 17 is the all new Combichrist album “CMBCRST”. The CD edition comes in double-digipak and in addition to the 14 main tracks, it features a full length bonus-CD with 9 exclusive songs. And for the first time ever, Out of Line produces a zoetrope vinyl as well.

A zoetrope vinyl combines the vintage appeal of a traditional record with the optical illusion of a zoetrope, an early animation device. When this special record spins on a turntable, it creates moving images that are visible through specific viewing methods, such as a strobe light or camera shutter. This effect is achieved by printing a series of sequential images along the record’s surface, which, when spun, appear to animate due to the persistence of vision phenomenon. Zoetrope vinyls not only offer a unique listening experience but also add a visual dimension to the music, making them collectible items for enthusiasts of vinyl records and optical illusions alike.

This special vinyl edition contains all 14 main tracks of the new Combichrist new album.

Check out the videoclip for “Planet Doom”. Read the review of ‘Cmbcrst’.

]]> Amduscia side-project Project TrES-2b launches debut single ‘The Day Before’ – Out now https://www.side-line.com/amduscia-side-project-project-tres-2b-launches-debut-single-the-day-before-out-now/ Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:23:34 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=48101 Out now via Out Of Line Music is the debut single from Project TrES-2b: “The...]]>

Out now via Out Of Line Music is the debut single from Project TrES-2b: “The Day Before”. This marks the first release off the upcoming album, “When Human Life Begins”. Behind the project we find Polo of Amduscia, venturing into new realms of techno and cosmic-themed music.

The single is inspired by Polo’s involvement as a DJ in the techno collective BPM Colectivo and his desire to play original music in his sets. Influences from legendary acts like Jan Michel Jarre and Alex O’Rion are evident, blending classic techno rhythms with deep, cosmic sounds.

Polo explains: “Since the 90s, I listened techno music and other kind of older music like Jan Michel Jarre; I always loved his amazing cosmic and deep sounds because I was always interested in the cosmos and alien stuff. Currently, some techno projects mix that kind of sound, like Alex O’ Rion; he was, for me, my second and the most important influence to make this new project.”

]]> Audioglobe statistics on the darkwave music sales in 2023 out now https://www.side-line.com/audioglobe-statistics-on-the-darkwave-music-sales-in-2023-out-now/ Sat, 23 Dec 2023 11:54:57 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=47596 Celebrating its 30th year, Audioglobe, the most important distributor in the darkwave scene, just shared...]]>

Celebrating its 30th year, Audioglobe, the most important distributor in the darkwave scene, just shared a statistical review, revealing the shifts and trends in the darkwave (and related) music genre.

Our readers will surely remember that we have reported on these stats for years, until 2018, the first year that Audioglobe didn’t communicate these stats. Sebastian Koch from Audioglobe explains: “Some customers never really cared that much about these, as they have better things to do than reading boring mails from the undersigned. But… Surprisingly there are quite a high number of customers, that sort of ‘complained’ about the fact, that no stats were being done any longer… The reason is: I was simply always far too busy in past years. Anyway: Here we go with the first new stats since 2017!”

So here are some export facts.

Top 10 Bestselling Labels of 2023 (export)

  1. FABRIKA/DEAD SCARLET
    • She Past Away, Lebanon Hanover, Selofan, Kaelan Mikla, M!R!M, Doric…
  2. METROPOLIS
    • Birthday Massacre, Delerium, Front Line Assembly, A Projection, KMFDM, Legendary P.D…
  3. ICY COLD/MANIC DEPR.
    • Twin Tribes, Je T’aime, Traitrs, Kill Shelter, Closed Mouth, Talk to Her, Schonwald…
  4. ALFA MATRIX
    • Alien Vampires, Front 242, Metroland, Die Robo Sapiens, Elm, 808 Dot Pop, Helalyn Flowers…
  5. RUSTBLADE
    • Claudio Simonetti, Ennio Morricone, Lycia Lunch, Spiritual Front, Ketvector, Legendary Pink D…
  6. OUT OF LINE
    • Blutengel, Hocico, Solitary Experiments, Suicide Commando, Signal Aout42, Erdling…
  7. TRISOL
    • Sopor Aeternus, Rome, Clan of Xymox, Asp, Ostara, Skinflicks, Nachtmahr, Mantus, Soman…
  8. DEPENDENT
    • Kirlian Camera, Girls Under Glass, Spectra*Paris, Mildreda, Black Nail Cabaret, Beborn Beton…
  9. ARTOFFACT
    • Actors, Noise Unit, cEvin Key, Kaelan Mikla, Ploho, Sacred Skin, Kauan, Ken Mode, Spectres…
  10. AUERBACH
    • Spiritual Front, Sol Invictus, Tenhi, Moon and the Night Spirit, Haavard, Hekate, Orplid…

Best Export Territories of 2023

If we look at the Audioglobe stats, we notice that Germany and Greece remain the company’s strongest markets, continuing a trend that has been consistent for ages. However, the 2023 statistics reveal some notable shifts.

Canada, once a prominent market for Audioglobe, has surprisingly disappeared from the export landscape. In contrast, the United States and the United Kingdom have re-emerged as significant territories, marking their return to prominence in the darkwave music scene after several years.

The most unexpected development in 2023 is the rise of Australia as a key market. This growth stands in stark contrast to Switzerland, which, despite its affluence, has seen a sharp decline in sales. Sebastian Koch adds: “The (by far!) lowest sales of all countries where we export to, was to Switzerland… The rich Swiss don’t buy records! Since I left the country (1990), something is wrong back home!”

Here is the top 10 list of export territories:

  1. Germany
  2. Greece
  3. Netherlands
  4. Portugal
  5. USA
  6. United Kingdom
  7. Australia
  8. Spain
  9. Russia
  10. Poland

Not in the top 10, but France, Japan, Malta, Brazil, Sweden, Mexico, and Perù are also good export territories for Audioglobe.

]]> Corlyx has a new single, ‘Kill Cave’, featuring Suzi Sabotage https://www.side-line.com/corlyx-has-a-new-single-kill-cave-featuring-suzi-sabotage/ Thu, 09 Nov 2023 12:04:24 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=46585 Out via Out Of Line is the Corlyx featuring Suzi Sabotage single “Kill Cave”. “Kill...]]>

Out via Out Of Line is the Corlyx featuring Suzi Sabotage single “Kill Cave”. “Kill Cave” is the second single from Corlyx’s album scheduled for release in 2024. The single comes back by the previously released song “Wasted and alone”.

“Kill Cave” is a homage to the misunderstood and the marginalized, a narrative that resonates with the tales of witchy women throughout history. The music video was a joint effort with Caitlin Stokes at the helm of direction and editing. Her recent work includes the video for Lord Of The Lost’s “Dead End”.

Caitlin Stokes of Corlyx shares why the Finnish artist Suzi Sabotage was her first choice to join her in this song: “I love her powerful iconic energy, and she brought some fresh ideas to the song. We had a blast making the music video together, front women rarely collaborate, and I think we need to see more of this, our unique beauty in harmony is powerful and enchanting.”

Suzi Sabotage adds, “It’s been an unforgettable, wonderfully berserk experience to collaborate with Corlyx, especially flying over to Italy to film the music video with them. I handpicked the song myself out of different alternatives because it immediately took my breath away, sounding like a modern darkwave classic. They’re talented, lovely people who I think should become THE name on everyone’s lips in the goth scene.”

Check out the 2-track below.

]]> Daemon Grey presents brand new single/video ‘In The Shadows’ taken from new album ‘Daemonic’ https://www.side-line.com/daemon-grey-presents-brand-new-single-video-in-the-shadows-taken-from-new-album-daemonic/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:54:42 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=46173 (Photo by DG Photo Live) The Toronto-based industrial metal act Daemon Grey returns with a...]]>

(Photo by DG Photo Live) The Toronto-based industrial metal act Daemon Grey returns with a new song (and video), “In The Shadows”. The song is about betrayal and conviction and will be featured on the new Daemon Grey album “Daemonic” out on December 1st via Out Of Line.

Daemon Grey explains this about the album: “Daemonic certainly marks a dream, or beautiful nightmare, come true for me. After years of planning and writing, I was able to create what I wanted to create, from the soul, which I think is really all an artist can hope for. Absolutely thrilled, and grateful, to share the record alongside Out Of Line music. The heavy music community is what raised me, and I hope music fans of many flavors find something in DAEMONIC that moves, powers, or inspires \m/.”

You can watch the video for “In The Shadows” below.

]]> Signal Aout 42 – Ex Voto (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/signal-aout-42-ex-voto-album-out-of-line/ Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=45916 #image_title Genre/Influences: EBM. Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl. Background/Info: Four years after the last album “Insurrection”...]]>
#image_title

Genre/Influences: EBM.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: Four years after the last album “Insurrection” Jacky Meurisse strikes back with a new opus of his EBM-project Signal Aout 42. The work was preceded by three singles and features twelve songs.

Content: “Ex Voto” sounds for good-old EBM and in the purest tradition of the band. Dry and sharp bass lines, icy cold treatments, danceable kicks and Meurisse’s deep timbre of voice. You’ll also notice New-Beat -but less than on “Insurrection”, and even Acid influences in the background of the production.

+ + + : Jacky Meurisse didn’t really change the familiar sound formula of his project. I like the cutting and aggressive bass lines and retro, icy, string parts. Songs like “Let Drop Your Mask” and “Man Woman” are some of the greatest pieces of this album illustrating the retro-approach of Signal Aout 42. The writing sounds simple but remains fully efficient while empowered by great production skills. I also enjoyed the minimalism-sounding “Haunted Souls”.

– – – : Signal Aout 42 avoids any trace of innovation but simply achieved what the fans are waiting for. No surprises here.

Conclusion: It’s always a pleasure when one of the EBM pioneers is unleashing new work and Signal Aout 42 remains one of the very few to move on composing and releasing new stuff.

Best songs: “Let Drop Your Mask”, “Man Woman”, “Haunted Souls”, “Lucky Star Ex Voto”, “Flagellation”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: https://signalaout42.wixsite.com/sa42

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

About Signal Aout 42

Signal Aout 42 is the long-running EBM project of Belgian musician Jacky Meurisse, formed in 1981 under the name Signal as an improvisation project with schoolmates Damien Vandamme and Luc Vandamme. Over four decades the project has moved through EBM, New Beat, techno and acid influences while keeping its core industrial-dance sound. “Ex Voto” is Meurisse’s eighth Signal Aout 42 album, released via Out Of Line on 13 October 2023 as a 12-track CD and double LP.

]]> Corlyx present new single and video, ‘Wasted And Alone’ https://www.side-line.com/corlyx-present-new-single-and-video-wasted-and-alone/ Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:13:28 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=44749 Out via the German label Out Of Line Music is the new Corlyx single and...]]>

Out via the German label Out Of Line Music is the new Corlyx single and video, “Wasted And Alone”. The video was directed and edited by the duo’s Caitlin Stokes who recently also shot the Lord Of The Lost video “Dead End”.

Caitlin Stokes of Corlyx shares her inspiration for “Wasted And Alone”: “You ever have the worst night out because you’re too stupid to handle your liquor? This is the story of that time for me; I think many of us can relate. Ultimately, I think this behavior is entwined with self-sabotage. We take these risks, we hurt ourselves in the name of fun, it is so isolating and bleak…but we often go back for more, a cycle we can only break once we heal the wounds that drive us to these vices.”

And she adds: “‘Wasted & Alone’ is a trip back to our destructive self-sabotage past. Both Brandon and I were teenage druggies; we had a lot of trauma to unpack before we were capable of taking better care of ourselves. This song doesn’t glorify substance abuse. It’s the acknowledgment of our very real and human coping mechanisms. We party, we isolate, we numb, we were all young and sad once.”

Watch it below.

]]> Signal Aout 42 back with all new single: ‘Memories’ https://www.side-line.com/signal-aout-42-back-with-all-new-single-memories/ Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:06:34 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=44427 Belgian industrial-electro pioneers, Signal Aout 42, have unveiled their latest single, “Memories”. This track, the...]]>

Belgian industrial-electro pioneers, Signal Aout 42, have unveiled their latest single, “Memories”. This track, the third single from their forthcoming album “Ex-Voto”, is now available via the Out Of Line Music label. Fans can anticipate the album’s release on 13th October.

Jacky Meurisse, reflecting on “Memories”, shared, “It’s a homage to those who have passed away but have left an indelible mark on me, shaping the person I’ve become.”

“Ex-Voto” boasts 12 tracks and will be accessible both as a double LP and on CD. Additionally, a fresh T-shirt design will accompany the album.

Tracing back to 1981, Signal Aout 42 was originally conceived as Signal, a casual live improvisation endeavour by school friends Jacky Meurisse, Damien Vandamme, and Luc Vandamme. However, due to a naming clash with a popular local toothpaste brand, they opted for Signal Aout 42. This name references the launch date of the German Wehrmacht’s propaganda magazine, Signal. Despite some misconceptions linking the band to far-right ideologies because of this association, Meurisse has firmly clarified that such assumptions are unfounded. Following a ten-year break, the band re-emerged in the late 2000s.

Discography:

  • Pro Patria – 1989
  • Contrast – 1990
  • Conviction – 1993
  • Transformation – 2007
  • Vae Victis – 2010
  • Inspiration – 2013
  • Insurrection – 2019

Enjoy their new single below.

]]> Blutengel – Un:Sterblich / Our Souls Will Never Die (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/blutengel-unsterblich-our-souls-will-never-die-album-out-of-line/ Wed, 19 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43816 Genre/Influences: Dark-Pop, Electro-Wave. Format: Digital, 2CD, Vinyl, Cassette. Background/Info: This new album by German Dark-Pop...]]>

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

Format: Digital, 2CD, Vinyl, Cassette.

Background/Info: This new album by German Dark-Pop & Wave idol Blutengel also marks the twenty fifth anniversary of the project driven by Chris Pohl. Better than releasing a ‘best of’ we get totally new work featuring twenty five songs. The album is available in different formats featuring a limited edition with an extra disc.

Content: “Un:Sterblich” has been introduced as an intimate album but definitely sounds like an exploration of new sonic paths. Next to the ‘classical’ Blutengel songs carried by strong choruses connected featuring captivating melody lines we also get a ‘harder’ side of the band. Blutengel reveals songs with solid EBM-driven bass lines and now and then empowered by guitar play. On top you get the charisma of Chris Pohl’s vocals assisted by the heavenly and graceful timbre of the voice of Ulrike Godmann.

The main disc features 14 songs. The second disc brings eleven more songs -without any single remix. You ‘ll discover a more ‘classical’ Blutengel canvas although with more melancholic, and slower pieces.

+ + + : Blutengel remains a fascinating project and an artist who’s not only prolific but still surprising. This work features maybe the harder cuts ever written by Blutengel. Chris Pohl has been involved with so many projects he feels comfortable dealing with harder music but he never lost the main ingredients and basis of Blutengel. It remains melodic and danceable thanks to carrying leads. Next to this ‘new’ approach you’ll also notice typical Blutengel songs featuring great cuts like “Dark History” and “The Prophecy”. Songs have been once more sung in German and English which accentuates diversity.

– – – : The second disc is pretty cool as it brings 11 extra cuts but you’ll rapidly understand why these songs haven’t been featured at the main disc. I’m not saying it concerns album fillers but the quality level is just lower here -by the exception of the great “Back For Blood”.

Conclusion: Maybe not the best Blutengel album from the past years but definitely a different one featuring great pieces at the main disc.  The fans are going to like it!

Best songs: “Dark History”, “We Belong To The Night”, “The Last Crusade”, “Fliegen”, “Tief”, “King Of Blood”, “Living On The Edge Of The Night – A Gothic Anthem” + “Back For Blood”.

Rate: 8½.

Artist: www.blutengel.de / www.facebook.com/BlutengelOfficial

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel Read the news on ‘Un:Sterblich / Our Souls Will Never Die’.

About Blutengel

Blutengel is the main project of German musician Chris Pohl, who first drew attention in the early 1990s in Berlin with Terminal Choice, followed by Miss Construction and Tumor. Pohl’s project Seelenkrank evolved into Blutengel around 1998. Ulrike Goldmann joined as an additional singer starting with the band’s fifth studio album, “Labyrinth,” originally released on Out Of Line on September 14, 2007.

“Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die” marked Blutengel’s 25th anniversary. The band has continued releasing new music since, including the single “Nothing Left” with Solar Fake (2024) and the fourteenth studio album, “Dämonen:Sturm” (2025), also on Out Of Line.

]]> Blutengel release all new video for ‘Shine Again’ from new album ‘Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die’ https://www.side-line.com/blutengel-release-all-new-video-for-shine-again-from-new-album-unsterblich-our-souls-will-never-die/ Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:50:40 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43495 (Photo by Annie Bertram) Out now via Out Of Line Music is the all new...]]>

(Photo by Annie Bertram) Out now via Out Of Line Music is the all new Blutengel video for “Shine Again” taken from the new album “Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die”.

Chris Pohl states this about the new song: “‘Shine again’ is one of the more quiet, melancholic numbers from the brand new Blutengel album. I guess I created a very catchy hookline here, which, together with the vocals, is stuck firmly in one’s head! Lyrically, it’s about a relationship drama…. Not unusual, but still always an inspiration. You can’t be with each other, but you can’t be without…”

Here’s the new video.

]]> Suicide Commando back with all new single, ‘God Of Destruction’ https://www.side-line.com/suicide-commando-back-with-all-new-single-god-of-destruction/ Fri, 26 May 2023 11:11:16 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43207 The Belgian electro-industrial act Suicide Commando releases an all new song “God Of Destruction (Lies...]]>

The Belgian electro-industrial act Suicide Commando releases an all new song “God Of Destruction (Lies Lies Lies)” through Out Of Line. The EP deals with issues of religion and mankind.

Johan Van Roy: “While religion is meant to be something constructive, positive and should bring people hope, it unfortunately often is destructive and one of the biggest dangers of mankind. Whether you believe in a Jesus or a God in whatever religion. Religion often brings war, destruction, pain … just think about all those terrorist attacks of the last decades, think about all those wars going on in Africa or elsewhere, and not to speak about the 2 faces of the church and their years of child abuse etc …”

Musically you can expect Johan Van Roy’s signature dark electro.

Besides the main song, the EP contains remixes by the American EBM project Kreign and the Greek act Siva Six. Furthermore you can find a new remake in 2 chapters of “Destroyer of worlds”.

]]> Blutengel shares new video ‘Unsere Zeit läuft ab’ from new album ‘Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die’ https://www.side-line.com/blutengel-shares-new-video-unsere-zeit-lauft-ab-from-new-album-unsterblich-our-souls-will-never-die/ Fri, 12 May 2023 08:42:03 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=42995 Out now via Out Of Line is the all new Blutengel album “Un:Sterblich – Our...]]>

Out now via Out Of Line is the all new Blutengel album “Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die”. And today the band also releases an all new music video, this time for the track “Unsere Zeit läuft ab”.

The Blutengel album is now available worldwide in the physical format of your choice as well as digitally. It is out as a 2CD digipack, a limited deluxe 3CD-digibook including an exclusive 5-track CD with unplugged versions of selected new songs as well as on analog cassette and two strictly limited vinyl editions.

A wooden fan box set limited to 699 pieces includes the 3CD digibook, a handwritten lyric book, an hourglass in Blutengel design, a Blutengel coin and bracelet, a hand-numbered certificate, and the exclusive 2023 reissue of the “Lebe deinen Traum” as an audiobook only available in the box containing the years 2017-2022.

Watch the brand new video “Unsere Zeit läuft ab” right below.

]]> Blutengel releases all new single and video ‘The Prophecy’ from forthcoming album ‘Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die’ https://www.side-line.com/blutengel-releases-all-new-single-and-video-the-prophecy-from-forthcoming-album-unsterblich-our-souls-will-never-die/ Fri, 07 Apr 2023 19:48:32 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=42340 Blutengel is set to release their brand new single and video, “The Prophecy”, taken from...]]>

Blutengel is set to release their brand new single and video, “The Prophecy”, taken from the forthcoming album “Un:Sterblich – Our Souls Will Never Die”, due out on May 12 via Out Of Line. The album launch will be followed by concerts in May and June, culminating in a grand open-air anniversary show on June 17 in Chemnitz, Germany.

Before the album’s release, fans can enjoy the single and video for “The Prophecy”, which features Ulrike Goldmann on vocals.

“Musically, this is undoubtedly one of our more unique songs… There’s no straightforward beat; everything is twisted, eerie, and distorted… minimalistic, yet cool… The track is edgy, and Ulli’s powerful vocals add a touch of melody,” says Chris, the composer and creative force behind Blutengel.

Watch “The Prophecy” video below.

Blutengel, a German electronic music group, was formed by singer Chris Pohl (also associated with projects Terminal Choice, Tumor, and Miss Construction, and owner of the Fear Section label) after leaving Seelenkrank due to contractual and legal issues. The lyrics, primarily in German and English, are delivered through both male and female vocals. The songs often revolve around themes typical of Gothic fiction, such as love, vampirism, sexual fetishism, death, and immortality. The band describes their musical style as dark pop. Read the review of ‘Un:Sterblich / Our Souls Will Never Die’.

]]> Any Second – Enemies / Deluxe (Album – Infacted Recordings) https://www.side-line.com/any-second-enemies-deluxe-album-infacted-recordings/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41793 Genre/Influences: EBM, Dark-Electro. Format: Digital, 2CD. Background/Info: Berlin trio Any Second released in December 2022...]]>

Genre/Influences: EBM, Dark-Electro.

Format: Digital, 2CD.

Background/Info: Berlin trio Any Second released in December 2022 their third album to date. Oliver Senger, Thomas Beschoner and Jan Kluge left Out Of Line and joined hands together with Infacted Recordings to unleash “Enemies”. The opus was preceded by the powerful EP-teaser “Scalpel”. “Enemies” is available as a double disc featuring remixes on the bonus disc.

Content: If you know the band from their previous works you immediately will recognize the perfect mix between EBM and Dark-Electro. Nearly all the songs have been sung in English but there’s also one track with German vocals. Any Second don’t reinvent the music genres they’re inspired by but they mix it in a unique way while adding a catchy touch now and then.

The bonus disc features remixes by Suicide Commando (same one as on the EP), Blutengel, Darkness On Demand, Trensity, Die Braut, Captive Of Society, Digital Energy, Seelennacht, Batavia, Ma=st+er and TerrorFrequenz.

+ + + : The global production has been improved in comparison with previous works. There’s a perfect balance between all the different influences while in the end it remains an ultra-danceable work featuring noticeable songs. My absolute favorite cut is probably the most unusual one; “Cornered” is driven by an irresistible, catchy and Pop-driven lead. I also recommend “I Shout”, “Where Is God” and the Tyske Lüdder-sounding “Subtil 19”.

Among the remixes you’ll find great names like Suicide Commando and Blutengel but my favorite remix is the one by Die Braut.

– – – : I expected a bit more out of the bonus disc. Any Second has made a serious progression while I’m sure they still can do better.

Conclusion: A fully accomplished work featuring several, potential, dancefloor killers.

Best songs: “Cornered”, “I Shout”, “Where Is God”, “Subtil 19”, “Enemies Among Friends” + “Scalpel – Die Braut Remix”, “Me And My Enemy – Suicide Commando Remix”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.anysecond.eu / www.facebook.com/anysecond.berlin

Label: www.infacted-recordings.de / www.facebook.com/pages/Infacted-Recordings/124099254321690

Listen to “Enemies”:

About Any Second

Any Second is a Berlin-based EBM and dark-electro project founded in 2009 under a different line-up. Jan Kluge, a founding member, is now joined by Oliver Senger and Thomas Beschoner. The band released “Dein Schicksal” as a self-released debut in 2012 and the double-disc “Sünde: Mensch” through Out Of Line in 2018, before signing to Infacted Recordings for “Enemies”, released in December 2022 as its third album, preceded by the EP “Scalpel”.

]]> Out Of Line announces signing of Stahlmann, first single ‘Tanzen’ out now https://www.side-line.com/out-of-line-announces-signing-of-stahlmann-first-single-tanzen-out-now/ Mon, 27 Feb 2023 09:31:37 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41547 Out now via Out Of Line is the new single of the label’s most recent...]]>

Out now via Out Of Line is the new single of the label’s most recent signing Stahlmann. The single “Tanzen” offers Neue Deutsche Härte blending various genres like new wave, alternative metal, groove metal, electro-industrial and techno.

The band has this to say about the new single: “It was important to us, especially after the whole Covid craze, to create something that would bring the world a little closer together again… And what is better suited than dancing? We are really proud of the thing and can’t wait to perform the new single live!”

Here’s the single:

The band starts a tour in March, here are the concert dates.

  • 03.03.23 München – Backstage
  • 04.03.23 Frankfurt – Nachtleben
  • 09.03.23 Hannover – Musikzentrum
  • 11.03.23 Weiden – DUSK TILL DAWN Rockfestival 2023
  • 17.03.23 Berlin – FRANNZ Club
  • 24.03.23 Dresden – Puschkin
  • 25.03.23 Affalter – Zur Linde
  • 31.03.23 Osnabrück – Bastard Club
  • 14.04.23 Trier – Mergener Hof
  • 15.04.23 Siegburg – KUBANA
  • 20.05.23 Dark Horizon Festival
]]> Swedish industrial metal act Rave The Reqviem releases new song ‘Anti-Savior’ https://www.side-line.com/swedish-industrial-metal-act-rave-the-reqviem-releases-new-song-anti-savior/ Mon, 13 Feb 2023 13:18:29 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41303 Out via Out Of Line Music is the all new single by Sweden’s industrial metal...]]>
Swedish industrial metal act Rave The Reqviem releases new song 'Anti-Savior'

Out via Out Of Line Music is the all new single by Sweden’s industrial metal act Rave The Reqviem: “Anti-Savior”. You may expect down-tempo industrial beats meet heavy guitars and catchy hooks featuring opera vocals by former lead singer The Holy Mother.

It was the Japan-based label DWA that first discovered the band and released their debut album in 2014. They signed with the German label Out Of Line Music in 2017. After gaining access to a wider audience with their albums “Fvneral [Sic]” (2018) and “Stigmata Itch” (2020), the band led by songwriter Filip Lönnqvist is now back with new material.

The band was formed in Kalmar, Sweden in late 2011 by lead singer and guitarist Philip Lönnqvist, who also provides the electronic elements.

Below is the band’s newest single, “Anti-Savior” featuring two other tracks as well.

]]> She Hates Emotions – Happy Pop Music (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/she-hates-emotions-happy-pop-music-album-out-of-line/ Thu, 02 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41007 Genre/Influences: Electro-Pop, Wave-Pop. Format: Digital, CD. Background/Info: “Happy Pop Music” was released two years after...]]>

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

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: “Happy Pop Music” was released two years after the debut album “Melancholic Maniac” (2020). This German solo-project driven by Blutengel front man Chris Pohl brings us an album featuring eleven songs plus 3 alternative versions.

Content: She Hates Emotions remain totally devoted and inspired by the 80s Electro/New-Wave music the artist was listening to through his childhood. The songs evoke numerous famous artists like Alphaville, Camouflage, Gary Numan, The Human League and even Michael Cretu. All songs have been sung in English revealing typical 80s effects and arrangements -which are mainly coming through in the drum sections. The songs are full of catchy and melodic parts.

+ + + : Blutengel of course remains Chris Pohl’s leading project but we have to recognize all the other projects he has been involved with -think of Terminal Choice, Miss Construction, Tumor… were pretty successful as well. She Hates Emotions sounds like pure fun but with a very precise and judicious 80s emulation. Chris Pohl transposed the New-Wave legacy into an alluring, contemporary, production. The already familiar singles “Space & Time” and “This Ain’t Good” both remain excellent tracks featuring great melody lines, superb effects and refined arrangements. But I also have to mention “Meant To Be Alone” which is more reminding me of Gary Numan and “No Time To Waste” which is one of the catchiest cuts.

– – – : Originality is hard to find but who cares when the result is fully enjoyable.

Conclusion: The 80s remain a very inspiring period for genius artists like Chris Pohl.

Best songs: “This Ain’t Good”, “No Time To Waste”, “Space & Time”, “Meant To Be Alone”, “Ich Will Hier Weg”, “She Takes Control”.

Rate: 8½.

Artist: www.facebook.com/SheHatesEmotions

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

Side-Line previously covered the “Space and Time” single and video ahead of the album.

Listen to “Happy Pop Music”:

About She Hates Emotions

She Hates Emotions is the solo project of Chris Pohl, best known as the frontman of Blutengel. The project debuted in 2020 with the single “See The Light”, its video shot on location in Berlin, followed by the debut album “Melancholic Maniac” on 15 May 2020 via Out Of Line. The single “Space and Time” preceded the second album, “Happy Pop Music”, released on 25 November 2022. A third She Hates Emotions album, “Future Unknown”, was announced by Chris Pohl in 2024.

]]> Corlyx – Blood In The Disco (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/corlyx-blood-in-the-disco-album-out-of-line/ Thu, 19 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=40847 Genre/Influences: Indie-Wave, Wave-Pop. Format: Digital, CD. Background/Info: After two self-released albums and a first official...]]>

Genre/Influences: Indie-Wave, Wave-Pop.

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: After two self-released albums and a first official opus (cf. “Together Apart”) released in 2020 by Negative Gain Productions the UK act Corlyx signed to Out Of Line and unleashed “Blood In The Disco”.

Content: Caitlin Stokes and Brandon Ashley take off with  a pure Indie/Wave/Pop track featuring a sexy chorus sung by Caitlin. The song in a way perfectly symbolizes the sound of the opus. 80s like inspiration mixed with an Indie touch and sexy parts. You’ll notice a duo with Massive Ego and another with Chris Harms (Lord Of The Lost). The last song is a remix by Nero Argento.   

+ + + : Corlyx don’t really innovate and yet it sounds different than most of the productions from the ‘Industrial’ scene. There’s this cool and unique British style which is hard to explain but which I often describe as ‘f*** off’. The sound is mixing different influences; from Pop to New-Wave to Industrial while in the end it has something Indie-driven. The choruses are often carrying and elevating. I like the duo with Massive Ego on “Raindrops” but favorite cuts are “The Echo” which clearly has a solid 80s touch and “The Threshold” for the powerful and perfect balance between guitar and electronics.

– – – : I expected a bit more out of the duo with Chris Harms.

Conclusion: Corlyx have the look and the sound!

Best songs: “The Echo”, “The Threshold”, “Raindrops”, “Atrophy”, “Raindrops – Nero Argento Remix”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.facebook.com/CORLYXOFFICIAL

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel Read the news on ‘Blood In The Disco’.

About Corlyx

Corlyx is a trio originally from Los Angeles, now based between the UK and Italy, consisting of Caitlin Stokes on vocals, Brandon Ashley on guitar and production, and bassist Davide Rocco. Describing their sound as “Death Pop”, the band draws on 80s post-punk, 90s grunge, and dark-wave, having started out with a more industrial dark electro sound. Corlyx released two self-released albums before their first official release, “Together Apart”, in 2020 on Negative Gain Productions. The band then signed to Out Of Line for “Blood In The Disco”.

]]> Click Interview with Solitary Experiments: ‘Convince Yourself Of It!’ https://www.side-line.com/click-interview-with-solitary-experiments-convince-yourself-of-it/ Sat, 14 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=40787 It took four years to Solitary Experiments  to release a new studio album. The German...]]>

It took four years to Solitary Experiments  to release a new studio album. The German formation lead by core members Dennis Schober (vocals) and Michael Thielemann (music) strike back with their most surprising album to date. “Transcendent” released by Out Of Line is featuring songs with famous guest singers like Dirk Ivens, Alice Elena Fossi, Patrik Hansson ao. It’s once again a totally achieved production mixing elements of Future-Pop and Dark-Electro. I asked a few questions to Dennis.

(Picture credits by Chris Ruiz / Interview courtesy by Inferno Sound Diaries)

Q: Since your previous studio album “Future Tense” (2018) the world has been affected by Covid-19 which had a serious impact on most artistic activities. How did you experience this drama as citizen and artist?

Dennis: A very specific question. As a citizen, of course, I experienced everything just like everyone else. The only difference is that my day job in retail was not affected, i.e. I worked through the entire pandemic. Logically, I’m vaccinated and yes, I’ve also contracted Covid. As an artist, it was worse because so many events and concerts were canceled and that was really bad. You only realize how important it is when something is missing.

Q: Your new album “Transcendent” must have been written during the pandemic. I noticed you see this album as different from your previous works so how comes and what makes the difference -except the fact you worked with a few guest singers?

Dennis: Sounds strange, but exactly this collaboration was different from all the work before, because it was new for all of us. Of course, “Transcendent” doesn’t sound like “Future Tense” either, but that doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with the pandemic period. We only had a lot more time to make music because all other dates were cancelled. It’s actually the first time that we’ve gotten so much material together.

Q: How did you get the idea working with guest singers? Did you handle specific criteria to work with them and how did these songs took shape?

Dennis: Since we created so much new and different material, I came up with the idea of simply giving someone else to sing the things that I don’t like vocally. Of course, I deliberately chose my partners based on which voice would go with which song. And of course I reached very high when choosing the artists. It wasn’t easy to get everyone enthusiastic about the project at first, and it took some time to get everyone’s approval and results. In the end, however, there was no rejection and I am very proud of what we have created together.

Q: The song “The Great Unknown” featuring Elena Alice Fossi sounds to me as one of your most surprising songs ever and yet I think it also is one of the best tracks from the album; kind of mix between Delerium and Push. Tell us a bit more about this song, its influences and the way it has been produced?

Dennis: I can’t say much about the production, because I always get the finished songs from Michael without a say, so to speak. But I like it when the songs are not always produced in the Future-Pop sector. He sometimes gives me a real surprise, like with “The Great Unknown”. I love it when the song is dark and has a light Trance note. I had a vocal line in mind from the start and I knew straight away that this number had to be sung by and with Elena Fossi. I wrote the lyrics and presented both to the band Kirlian Camera, which I’ve adored for years. The rest took care of itself…

Q: Next to “Transcendent” you also released a digital album called “La Voix De La Femme” featuring only female artists singing on ‘older’ songs. How did you get the idea of this album and how did the ‘selection’ of the singers happened? Don’t you think there’re not enough female artists active in this scene dominated by men? How comes?

Dennis: One thing led to another and the idea of guest vocals grew in me more and more. Instead of remixing, I imagined what it might sound like if someone else sang our songs. To top it off, I came up with the idea of only asking for female voices to achieve an even greater contrast. This has nothing to do with the current situation within the scene. I even think there are many female voices, you just have to deal with that. I knew some of the ladies personally, others had already sung something for friends of mine and some I discovered through research or we had already played somewhere together. Anyway, everyone made an impression on me. I provided a number of possible songs to choose from and each chose the appropriate one. Later on I came up with the title that fits perfectly with the said bonus EP. Did I already mention that the whole project is also international?

Q: You were touring in November together with Vanguard and Mental Exile. How do you look back at the tour and how did you see Solitary Experiments as live act evolving throughout the years? 

Dennis: Of course, that’s something you’d rather have to ask the viewers. First of all I would like to say that we are extremely satisfied with the shows so far. On the one hand, the audience is visibly grateful that concerts can finally take place as club shows again and the people are really in the mood. On the other hand, I would like to say a big thank you to our special guests. It fits together so well musically and personally that we will continue this year in exactly the same constellation. We grow with our tasks and a two-man band has now become a five-piece live formation with additional drums and a lot of light and show effects. Convince yourself of it!

]]> Top 25 albums of the year 2022 https://www.side-line.com/top-25-albums-of-the-year-2022/ Sat, 31 Dec 2022 18:08:55 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=40610 (By Stéphane Froidcoeur for Inferno Sound Diaries/Side-Line Reviews) 2022 has been once again a sad,...]]>
Top 25 albums of the year 2022

(By Stéphane Froidcoeur for Inferno Sound Diaries/Side-Line Reviews) 2022 has been once again a sad, bloody and terrible year. Living in a mad world music once more remains a true therapy to appease pain and frustration. Concerts and festivals came back; the perfect place to meet friends again. Artists remain prolific releasing great studio work. So I’m once more closing the year by a personal selection of my very own ‘best of’-albums of the year.

Over 700 productions have been selected while 540  reviews have been made all over the year. Some productions have been refused because the style of music didn’t fit, while other reviews will be postponed to 2023. I’m really grateful to all labels, bands and promoters considering my work and efforts and I hope you’ll go on providing me new promos next year.

I one again have to express my deepest gratitude to Rich Bova (NEIKKA RPM) who for years and years now is reading, correcting and improving my reviews. Without Rich there would be no reviews. I also want to thank Bernard Van Isacker – chief redactor Side-Line Music Magazine – for the successful collaboration. 

Up now to 2023. I already reduced my activities this year and will move on reducing it in 2023. I made my first reviews and interviews back in 1991 (!). Some of the readers and artists weren’t even born when I wrote my first review for Side-Line. So after more than 30 years non-stop activities I think it’s not that strange to move on slowly.

I also want to express a big ‘F*** you’ to so-called ‘artists’ and label owners who don’t realise and appreciate the work I’m doing by making reviews and preparing interviews to get them in the spotlights. The attitude and less of respect shown by those people – luckily a very few number – is just unacceptable… but I’m afraid it reflects the world we’re living in… Behind a genius artist is not always hiding a great person… It’s quite strange to realise the ’biggest’- and long-time established artists from this scene often are the most accessible ones.

Writing reviews remains very ‘subjective’ and always a source of discussion, but keep in mind it will be always the perception of the reviewer. I can assure you I’m always trying to argue my reviews the best as possible. A review will be never objective, but has to be honest!

Like every year I’ve made a selection from the best albums of the year. This ‘TOP 25’ covers different styles like EBM, Dark-Electro, IDM, Synth-Pop, Ethereal, Dark-Ambient, Industrial, Cinematographic, Gothic, Post-Punk, Cold/Dark-Wave, Dark-Techno and a few related genres. It remains an exciting but tough exercise.

This ‘TOP 25’ is taken from the promotional material I got while compilations, ‘best of’-productions, EP’s and singles were not considered.

So, here’s my ‘TOP 25’ from 2022 and don’t forget to share it with your friends….

Top 25 albums 2022

  1. IVARDENSPHERE: “Ragemaker” – Metropolis Records
  2. DIE ROBO SAPIENS : “Robo Sapien Race” – Alfa Matrix
  3. EBE04 : “Inrush – Give/Take
  4. CALDON GLOVER: “Labyrintia” – Cyclic Law
  5. ROME: “Hegemonikon” – Trisol
  6. NEIKKA RPM: “Scorpio In The Hourglass – Alfa Matrix
  7. VANGUARD: “Spectrum” – Infacted Recordings
  8. SUICIDE COMMANDO: “Goddestructor” – Out Of Line
  9. ELM: “Penetrator” – Alfa Matrix
  10. OBERER TOTPUNKT: “Totentanz” – Danse Macabre Records
  11. THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE: “Fascination” – Metropolis Records
  12. BLACKBOOK: “Confessions Of The Innocent” – DarkTunes Music Group
  13. BEYOND THE GHOST: “Sundown” – Cryo Chamber
  14. THEN COMES SILENCE: “Hunger” – Metropolis Records
  15. PRINCIPE VALLIENTE: “Barricades” – Metropolis Records
  16. DAWN OF ASHES: “Scars Of The Broken” – Artoffact Records
  17. MONSTERGOD: “Ozymandias” – Space Race Records
  18. STATIQBLOOM: “Threat” – Sonic Groove Records
  19. AXIOME: “Field Guide To Alien Planets And Other Disco Balls – Audiophob
  20. REICHSFEIND: “Darken” – Alfa Matrix
  21. FIRST AID 4 SOULS: “I Am The Night” – Alfa Matrix
  22. ORDO ROSARIUS EQUILIBRIO: “Nihilist Notes And The Perputual Quest 4 Meaning In Nothing” – Out Of Line
  23. KILL SHELTER: “Asylum” – Manic Depression Records / Metropolis Records
  24. JAGATH: “Svapna” – Cold Spring Records
  25. KILL YOUR BOYFRIEND: “Voodoo” – Shyrec
]]> Solitary Experiments – Transcendent (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/solitary-experiments-transcendent-album-out-of-line/ Thu, 08 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=40038 Genre/Influences: Future-Pop, Dark-Electro. Format: Digital, DCD & 3CD. Background/Info: “Transcendent” is the eighth studio album...]]>

Genre/Influences: Future-Pop, Dark-Electro.

Format: Digital, DCD & 3CD.

Background/Info: “Transcendent” is the eighth studio album by Berliner group Solitary Experiments. The album features an extra disc with remixes and guest singers while there’s also an extra disc available -which is an audio book.

Content: The main disc features 10 songs in the purest and unique tradition of the band. The Electro sound remains always catchy and danceable but still featuring ‘evil’ or call it darker parts. So there’s a song featuring Dirk Ivens (Dive, The Klinik,  Absolute Body Control). But there’s also a totally evasive song featuring Elena Alice fossi (Kirlian Camera, Spectra*Paris) reminding me of an imaginary mix between Delerium and Push.

The bonus disc features a few more guest singers. Among others you’ll discover songs with Patrik Hansson (Vanguard, Uncreated), Gabriella Aström (Me The Tiger) and Nina De Lianin (In Strict Confidence) while remixes have been accomplished by Supreme Court, Rob Dust, Grendel, MC1R, Run Level Zero, Controlled Fusion and Massiv In Mensch.

+ + + : Solitary Experiments remains an established name in Germany and according to me is still recognized enough abroad. The band however remains a great project when it comes to combining danceable vibes, melodies, darkness and Pop singing. The addition of Dirk Ivens and Elena Alice Fossi as guest singers accentuates the diversity of the album. I’ve been impressed by the somewhat Dance/Trance “The Great Unknown” featuring Elena Alice Fossi. Another great piece is “Self-Fulfilling Prophecy” which clearly sounds as a potential hit. Other noticeable cuts are “Wonderland” and “Heart Of Stone” but also the menacing sphere running through “Zeitgeist” featuring Dirk Ivens. The bonus disc brings a nice extra with more guest singers and a great selection of  remixers.

– – – : You can’t really blame Solitary Experiments for holding onto their sound which hasn’t changed throughout the years however the initial magic is a bit gone.

Conclusion: Solitary Experiments stands as an established value; you’ll be never disappointed as they’ve an imaginary qualitative label!

Best songs: “The Great Unknown”, “Self-Fulfilling Prophecy”, “Wonderland”, “Heart Of Stone”, “Zeitgeist”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.solitaryexperiments.de / www.facebook.com/solitaryexperiments 

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel Read the news on ‘Transcendent’.

About Solitary Experiments

Solitary Experiments formed in 1994 in Frankfurt (Oder), Germany, and later settled in Berlin-Friedrichshain. Founders Michael Thielemann and Dennis Schober initially recorded under the name Plague before adopting the Solitary Experiments name. Vocalist Dana Apitz featured on the band’s first two demo tapes, “Risque De Choc Electrique” (1996) and “Death in Small Doses” (1998), before Steve Graeber joined on keyboards; Frank Glassl serves as live e-drummer.

The band signed to Maschinenwelt Records in 1999 and released its debut album, “Final Approach”, the same year. It was followed by “Paradox” (2000), “Advance Into Unknown” (2003), and “Mind Over Matter” (2005).

Solitary Experiments released its eighth studio album, “Transcendent”, via Out Of Line in 2022, featuring guest vocalists Dirk Ivens and Elena Alice Fossi alongside additional singers and remixers.

]]> Motor!k – Odyssey (EP – Ant-Zen) https://www.side-line.com/motork-odyssey-ep-ant-zen/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=39863 Genre/Influences: Krautrock. Format: Digital, Vinyl. Background/Info: After having released three successful albums on Out Of...]]>

Genre/Influences: Krautrock.

Format: Digital, Vinyl.

Background/Info: After having released three successful albums on Out Of Line the Belgian trio Motor!k strikes back with this four track “Odyssey” released on ant-Zen.

Content: Joeri Dobbeleir, Dirk Ivens and Dries D’hollander are moving on exploring the sonic paths of Krautrock. “Odyssey” clearly sounds like a continuation of previous works although with an extra, and more explicit, Electro touch on top.

+ + + : The songs are short and especially both debut cuts creating a transcendental sensation. The repetitive guitar playing is moving into a crescendo leading the listener into a psychedelic trip or simply trance. They also bring Krautrock alive while adding something extra to the great Ant-Zen label roster.

– – – : I regret the songs aren’t a bit more extended -especially when you feel this hypnotic sensation. The B-side cuts are less convincing.

Conclusion: “Odyssey” sounds like a great and inoffensive trip; music remains the best drug ever and Motor!k is slowly creating an addictive feeling in me.

Best songs: “Drift”, “Odyssey”.

Rate: 7½.

Artist: www.facebook.com/MOTORIKBELGIUM

Label: www.ant-zen.com / www.facebook.com/antzen.official

Listen to “Drift”:

About Motor!k

Motor!k is a Belgian krautrock band formed in 2018 by Joeri Dobbeleir, Dries D’Hollander, and Dirk Ivens, the latter also known for Dive, The Klinik, and Absolute Body Control.

The trio released its self-titled debut album on Out Of Line in 2019, followed by “Motor!k 2” in 2020 and “3” in 2022. The four-track EP “Odyssey”, featuring “Drift” and the title track, followed on Ant-Zen in September 2022.

]]> Too Dead To Die – In The Dark (EP – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/too-dead-to-die-in-the-dark-ep-out-of-line/ Sat, 22 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=39268 Genre/Influences: Electro-Pop, Body-Pop. Format: Digital. Background/Info: Two years after the last album “Tropical Gothic”, Too...]]>

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

Format: Digital.

Background/Info: Two years after the last album “Tropical Gothic”, Too Dead To Die revisited songs of this album. 

Content: The work features a varied content, moving in between ‘happy sounding’ Electro-Pop and rougher danceable cuts. The work sounds a bit like the offspring between Faderhead, Aesthetic Perfection and even Combichrist (for some of harder passages).

+ + + : Too Dead To Die created a very own Electro-Pop interpretation; a powerful production which is not driven by sweet melody lines, but experiments with Dance and Industrial. Nothing sounds impossible and that’s the main strength of this production. “Porcelain Mary” remains a great and powerful exposure but I also want to mention “They All Were Wont” featuring Freaky Mind and “Anywhere But Home – B-Side”.

– – – : There’re a few cuts which are a bit too short to my taste.

Conclusion: There’re less bands in the genre of Too Dead To Die and that’s for sure what makes this band interesting.

Best songs: “Porcelain Mary”, “They All Were Wont”.

Rate: 7 .

Artist: www.facebook.com/toodeadtodiemusic

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

About Too Dead To Die

Too Dead To Die mixes Electro-Pop and Body-Pop with rougher Dance and Industrial passages. The band’s album “Tropical Gothic” was released on February 28, 2020, on Out Of Line, and tracks from the album have previously appeared on Side-Line’s Electrostorm compilation series. “In The Dark” revisits and reworks material from “Tropical Gothic” for the same label.

]]> Finnish coldwave artist Suzi Sabotage back with new single & video ‘Oodi Surulle’ https://www.side-line.com/finnish-coldwave-artist-suzi-sabotage-back-with-new-single-video-oodi-surulle/ Thu, 13 Oct 2022 11:38:23 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=39149 Suzi Sabotage, a dark coldwave solo artist from Helsinki, Finland, is back with a new...]]>
Finnish coldwave artist Suzi Sabotage back with new single & video 'Oodi Surulle'

Suzi Sabotage, a dark coldwave solo artist from Helsinki, Finland, is back with a new single, “Oodi Surulle” (“Ode To Sorrow”). “Oodi Surulle” is out now both as a single and as a video. The track mixes neofolk and darksynth and on top this is Suzi’s first song in Finnish, her native language. Connaisseurs will also recognize the kantele in the music, the kantele being the national instrument of Finland.

Suzi Sabotage began her solo career in 2017 and has since also be featured on our Face The Beat compilation series where we offer a platform to new artists. She was featured with the track “Persona Non Grata” on “Face The Beat: Session 6” which you can download here for free.

You can watch the video below.

]]> Suicide Commando – Goddestruktor (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/suicide-commando-goddestruktor-album-out-of-line/ Thu, 08 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=38594 Genre/Influences: Dark-Electro. Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette. Background/Info: Five years have passed since the last...]]>

Genre/Influences: Dark-Electro.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette.

Background/Info: Five years have passed since the last studio album “Forest Of The Impaled”. In the meantime the army of Suicide Commando fans got a few noticeable singles and the “Mindstrip Redux”-album.

Content: Suicide Commando strikes back with a hard and merciless work. Inspired by themes which stand for the loss of the world Johan Van Roy has found his inspiration he transposed into solid bass lines with EBM influences, dark melody lines, aggressive sequences, banging rhythms and enraged, cavernous vocals. One of the exceptions are the female vocals by guest singer Charlotte Nuytkens injecting a ‘human’ and artistic touch to one of the songs. You’ll rediscover the latest hits “Bang Bang Bang”, “Trick Or Treat” and “Bunkerbitch”.

+ + + : Suicide Commando strikes back with rage and fury, which both were elements I was missing at “Forest Of The Impaled”. This is Suicide Commando at its best; a great sound DNA, well-crafted Dark-Electro cuts accentuated by some solid bass lines, freaky samplings and tormented, icy, sound atmospheres. The best cuts remain the aforementioned ‘singles’ although I also like the opening piece “Kill All Humanity”, “Jesus Freak” and especially “Destroyer Of Worlds” which is carried by an irresistible bass line and pumping kick.

– – – : The softer “Land Of Roses” featuring female vocals byCharlotte Nuytkens is a cool experiment revealing a talented singer, but this is Suicide Commando and I’m missing rage!

Conclusion: Suicide Commando feeds its inspiration by world dramas, horror, religious fanatism and other related themes so how would this project sound-like when living in a happy, shining and bright world? Terror rules and so does Suicide Commando!

Best songs: “Trick Or Treat”, “Bang Bang Bang”, “Destroyer Of Worlds”, “Kill All Humanity”, “Jesus Freak”, “Bunkerbitch – Censored”.

Rate: 9.

Artist: www.suicidecommando.be / www.facebook.com/IIXIII

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel Read the news on ‘Goddestruktor’.

About Suicide Commando

Suicide Commando is a Belgian electro-industrial project formed by Johan Van Roy in Leopoldsburg in 1986. Van Roy released his first tape under the name in 1988 and signed to the German label Off Beat, releasing debut album “Critical Stage” in 1994, followed by “Stored Images” in 1995 and “Construct-Destruct” in 1998. Van Roy co-founded the Dependent label in 1999, releasing “Mindstrip” in 2000, “Axis Of Evil” in 2003 and “Bind, Torture, Kill” in 2006. In 2009 the project signed to the German label Out Of Line, releasing “Implements Of Hell” in 2010, “When Evil Speaks” in 2013 and “Forest Of The Impaled” in 2017, the latter featuring guest vocals from Jean-Luc De Meyer of Front 242 on lead single “The Pain That You Like”. “Goddestruktor” follows on Out Of Line five years later, with guest vocals from Charlotte Nuytkens.

]]> Reakton – Micro: Macro: Nano (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/reakton-micro-macro-nano-album-out-of-line/ Mon, 29 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=38380 Genre/Influences: Electro-Pop. Format: Digital, USB. Background/Info: Three years after the successful debut album “Weltall: Erde:...]]>

Genre/Influences: Electro-Pop.

Format: Digital, USB.

Background/Info: Three years after the successful debut album “Weltall: Erde: Mensch” Berliner formation Reakton joined hands with Out Of Line and have now unleashed their second opus.

Content: Referring to the influences and sound production, the new work is a copy-paste of the debut album. The songs remain inspired by the magic of Kraftwerk, resulting in ‘Robotic-Pop’ or simply ‘Kraftwerk-Pop’ music. Pure minimalism accentuated by bleeping sequences and the magic of the vocoder to produce the vocals -while other passages are featuring computer vocals.

+ + + : If you already like Metroland, Deutsche Bank and related formations, you for sure are going to like Reakton. This album confirms the genius of their debut work. It’s a styled and intelligent production, which isn’t innovative although refreshing and bringing the 80s spirit back alive. The simple fact they got signed to Out Of Line definitely appears to be a consecration for their efforts and talent.

– – – : If you aren’t into Kraftwerk-like Electro-Pop music you’d better avoid buying this album.

Conclusion: Kraftwerk remains a huge source of inspiration for the ‘younger’ generation of artists, but some like Reakton, are definitely more inspired and intelligent in the way they create their own sound.

Best songs: “Deep Learning”, “Aerosol”, “Entertainment”, “Nano”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.reakton.de / www.facebook.com/ReaktonMusic

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

About Reakton

Reakton is a Berlin-based electro-pop project inspired by the sound of Kraftwerk. The project debuted with the album “Weltall: Erde: Mensch” in 2019 on Electro Shock Records, originally released digitally and as a limited USB-stick edition before a CD version followed.

Reakton released the single “Entertainment” in March 2022, and signed to Out Of Line for the second album “Micro: Macro: Nano”, reviewed here.

]]> Motor!k – 3 (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/motork-3-album-out-of-line/ Fri, 05 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=38065 Genre/Influences: Krautrock. Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl. Background/Info: This is the third (mini)-album by Belgian Motor!k...]]>

Genre/Influences: Krautrock.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: This is the third (mini)-album by Belgian Motor!k trio. Joeri Dobbeleir, Dirk Ivens (Dive) and Dries D’Hollander bring us six new songs which have been announced as different from their previous works.

Content: I can’t say the work is totally different, but it sounds more Electronic than previous productions. The electronic treatments are even predominant on some tracks while the guitar playing is more prominent at the end creating a sonic climax and cataclysm. You’ll also notice more relaxing passages while the last cut has something Cinematic-like and is driven by a superb melody line. The production remains instrumental.

+ + + : Both debut cuts are powerful, but I especially like the way both cuts have been progressively built up to end in a sonic orgasm. This work also sounds more Electro driven, which creates a better balance with the Psychedelic guitar playing. I also have to mention the last song for its beautiful melody line and Cinematic sensation.

– – – : The softer side of the work (cf. “Hourglass”, and “Unisono”) unfortunately isn’t the most convincing one. It’s too long without a true apotheosis.

Conclusion: Motor!k remains one of the most unique bands from the Out Of Line roster. They don’t only bring something different, but also something sexy.

Best songs: “Socrates”, “Stunden”, “Reflections”.

Rate: 7½.

Artist: www.facebook.com/MOTORIKBELGIUM

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

Listen to “3”:

About Motor!k

Motor!k is a Belgian Krautrock trio set up in 2018 by Joeri Dobbeleir on guitar and synths, Dries D’Hollander on drums and Dirk Ivens on guitar and effects. Dobbeleir and Ivens live in the same town; Ivens had released the debut album by Dobbeleir’s other band, The Whereabouts Of J. Albert, in 2017. The two started jamming with a drum computer and a bass sequencer before asking D’Hollander, previously the drummer in Dobbeleir’s early band Suburb Songs, to join.

In a Click Interview with Side-Line, Dobbeleir named NEU!, Harmonia and Wire as reference points and described the working method: he writes the basic synth and guitar tracks at his home studio, sends demos to Ivens and D’Hollander, and the trio then jams the songs into shape, with drums and guitars recorded in their rehearsal room and mixing handled at D’Hollander’s place.

The self-titled debut album appeared in 2019 on Out Of Line, a label better known for dark electronics, EBM and electro-pop, and “Motor!k 2” followed in 2021. “3” was released on 13 May 2022 on Out Of Line as a six-track record running about 39 minutes: “Stunden”, “Socrates”, “Hourglass”, “Unisono”, “Zug” and “Reflections”. It was issued digitally, on CD and as an LP-plus-CD set, keeping to the band’s stated aim of an album a year.

]]> Blutengel re-releases 5th album ‘Labyrinth’ in a 25 anniversary deluxe 2CD edition https://www.side-line.com/blutengel-re-releases-5th-album-labyrinth-in-a-25-anniversary-deluxe-2cd-edition/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:41:21 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=38015 Out by August 8th is the re-release of “Labyrinth”, Blutengel’s 5th studio album which was...]]>
Blutengel re-releases 5th album 'Labyrinth' in a 25 anniversary deluxe 2CD edition

Out by August 8th is the re-release of “Labyrinth”, Blutengel’s 5th studio album which was originally released on September 14 2007. The first four albums of Blutengel’s musical past have already been re-released.

“Labyrinth” has Ulrike Goldmann as an additional singer for the first time and not Constance Rudert. The album itself spawned a popular single, titled “Lucifer”. The single was released as 2 seperate CD’s, “Purgatory” and “Blaze”.

CD2 of the deluxe edition features 7 tracks from the original “Labyrinth” Box-bonus and tracks from the twin single release “Lucifer” (2007) and the single “My Saviour” from 2006. Note that there is also a super limited box set, with the album on cassette, packed in a wooden box with a hand-numbered certificate.

Here is the tracklist of the second CD:

  1. Lucifer (DubMixx by Jenne)
  2. Born again
  3. Stormy Rivers
  4. Victory of Death
  5. Snowblind
  6. Soul of Ice (Live 2007)
  7. Love Killer (Live 2007)
  8. Body Move (Remix)
  9. My Saviour
  10. Verdammnis
  11. In Winter
  12. Seelenschmerz 2007 (Reworked by Eminence Of Darkness)
  13. Misery
  14. Black Roses 2007 (Reworked by Eminence Of Darkness)
]]> Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio – Nihilist Notes [And The Perpetual Quest 4 Meaning In Nothing] (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/ordo-rosarius-equilibrio-nihilist-notes-and-the-perpetual-quest-4-meaning-in-nothing-album-out-of-line/ Mon, 18 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37842 Genre/Influences: Neo-Folk, Chanson, Martial, Cinematic, Experimental. Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette. Background/Info: Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio...]]>

Genre/Influences: Neo-Folk, Chanson, Martial, Cinematic, Experimental.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette.

Background/Info: Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio has been active for more than twenty years now. They don’t release a new album a year, but take their time to achieve their productions. This work comes three years after, according to me, the best work ever of the band “Let’s Play [Two Girls & A Goat]”. The opus is available in different formats.

Out Of Line issued the album as a CD digipak, on cassette and as a wooden box set limited to 444 copies that adds the album on 10″ vinyl and five collector’s coins, as reported in Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio offer new ‘Nihilist Notes’ album as CD and boxset. The album followed the four-track mini-album “La Fleur du Mal”, released in March 2022.

Content: The work takes off with an impressive intro while there also is a kind of outro song. In between both you’ll discover 11 songs driven by bombast and orchestral arrangements. ORE has seriously boosted the production by omnipresent, heavy, percussion parts. The global atmosphere hanging over the songs is dark and sad. Choruses often have an elevating effect which is more reminding me of the past few albums. On top of it all you’ll hear the charismatic voice of Tomas Pettersson while Rose-Marie Larsen is still there to inject a feminine and sensual touch as backing vocalist.

+ + + : One thing is for sure ORE don’t repeat themselves and that’s rather a good thing as it might have been difficult to improve the masterpiece “Let’s Play [Two Girls & A Goat]”. This work sounds as a mix of early stuff together with the dark, sensible and melodic late productions. The percussion never has been that orchestral and that’s probably also due to Sal-Ocin (Empusae) who became a member of the band. This work is filled with darkness and drama. It’s a perverted mix of sensible passages, erotism, nihilistic atmospheres and total despair. The work reveals uplifting passages but here again the main feeling remains dark and depressed.

– – – : It was a true challenge striking back after their previous album. ORE did successfully although this work never reaches a same, qualitative, level. The songs are even a bit predictable after a while.

Conclusion: Ordo Rosarius Equilibro remains to me one of the most artistic projects from the dark scene. A band with its own sound and unique approach we can only salute and respect.

Best songs: “In The Skies That Burn There’s No Refuge 4 Man”, “Of All The Pearls We Cast To Swine”, “The Sins That I Did, And All The Sin I’ll Ever Do”, “
I Remember, The Perpetual Search For The Meaning In Nothing”, “I Set Fire To Cathedrals, With The Flame Inside My Heart”.

Rate: 8½.

Artist: www.facebook.com/ordorosariusequilibrio

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

About Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio

Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio is a neofolk and martial industrial project from Stockholm, Sweden. Tomas Pettersson started it in 1993 as Ordo Equilibrio, after ending his previous band Archon Satani, together with Chelsea Krook. Cold Meat Industry released “Reaping the Fallen, The First Harvest” in 1995, “The Triumph of Light…. and Thy Thirteen Shadows of Love” in 1997, the “I4I” 7″ in 1997 and “Conquest, Love & Self Perseverance” in 1998.

Rose-Marie Larsen replaced Krook on backing vocals in 2001 and the name changed to Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio. Cold Meat Industry issued “Make Love, And War; The Wedlock of Roses” and “Make Love, And War; The Wedlock of Equilibrium” in 2001, “Cocktails, Carnage, Crucifixion And Pornography” in 2003, the split with Spiritual Front “Satyriasis – Somewhere Between Equilibrium And Nihilism” in 2005, “Apocalips” in 2006 and “O N A N I [Practice Makes Perfect]” in 2009. Raubbau released the 10″ “Four” in 2007. Fredrik Leijström and Ronnie Bäck joined on bass and guitar in 2008.

The band signed to Out Of Line in 2010, following the demise of Cold Meat Industry. The label released “Do Angels Never Cry, And Heaven Never Fall?” and “Songs 4 Hate & Devotion” in 2010, “4Play” in 2013, “Vision: Libertine – The Hangman’s Triad” in 2016 and “Let’s Play (two girls and a goat)” in 2019. Nicolas Van Meirhaeghe, who records as Empusae, is listed among the current members alongside Pettersson, Larsen and Leijström. Pettersson discussed the previous album at length in the ‘Click Interview’ with Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio.

“Nihilist Notes (And The Perpetual Quest 4 Meaning In Nothing)” is the fourth Out Of Line full-length by the band and its first new album since 2019.

]]> Kiberspassk release third single & video ‘Daleko’ from their upcoming album ‘Smorodina’ https://www.side-line.com/kiberspassk-release-third-single-video-daleko-from-their-upcoming-album-smorodina/ Thu, 23 Jun 2022 13:55:03 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37453 Kiberspassk have revealed another track from their second studio album which is set to release...]]>
Kiberspassk release third single & video 'Daleko' from their upcoming album 'Smorodina'

Kiberspassk have revealed another track from their second studio album which is set to release via Out Of Line. Their new album “Smorodina” in 2022 is the follow-up to their first album, “See Bear”.

The new single “Daleko” is a tragic love song and the drama of the song’s plot is revealed in a video clip created using a unique sand art technology.

Here’s what singer “BabaYaga” says about “Daleko”: “The song of a woman waiting for her beloved from the battlefield, from a long trip. Her call is full of tragedy, but at the same time, hopes for a meeting with her beloved.”

Here’s the new video.

]]> Suzi Sabotage signs with Out Of Line Music and announces sophomore album https://www.side-line.com/suzi-sabotage-signs-with-out-of-line-music-and-announces-sophomore-album/ Mon, 20 Jun 2022 15:08:25 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37429 The Finnish dark coldwave artist Suzi Sabotage has signed with the German label Out Of...]]>
Suzi Sabotage signs with Out Of Line Music and announces sophomore album

The Finnish dark coldwave artist Suzi Sabotage has signed with the German label Out Of Line Music. She now announces her sophomore album “Succubus” to be released later in 2022. The next single, “I Am The Storm”, will be out on the 21st of July 2022. The album will contain her previously-released single “Persona Non Grata” along with several tracks in Finnish that have distinct neofolk influences, and remixes of the singles by various artists.

The album is a follow-up to her debut album titled “Postmodern Dystopia”, which was released on the 7th of May 2021 on CD via the Polish label Bat-Cave Productions.

Suzi Sabotage, a dark coldwave solo artist from Helsinki, Finland, brings synth punk with a danceable touch. Some of her songs also feature the Finnish national instrument, kantele, creating a crossover between dark synth and neofolk. She’s previously known as the vocalist of the post-punk band Masquerade and the keyboardist of the deathrock band Virgin In Veil and has musically collaborated with such acts as I Ya Toyah, Aux Animaux, Neila Invo, Cult Of Alia, and Selfishadows.

So far she has toured in Iceland (with Kælan Mikla at Brennuöld Festival), Estonia (Tallinn Music Week 2021), The United Kingdom (at Club Dead And Buried in London), along with a few shows in her native city Helsinki. The album’s release will be celebrated at Out Of Line’s event on the 28th of January 2023 at Lido, Berlin, Germany.

]]> Suicide Commando – Bang Bang Bang (EP – Out Of Line / Metropolis Records) https://www.side-line.com/suicide-commando-bang-bang-bang-ep-out-of-line-metropolis-records/ Sun, 19 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37373 Genre/Influences: Dark-Electro. Format: Digital, CD. Background/Info: Suicide Commando is working on a new full length...]]>

Genre/Influences: Dark-Electro.

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: Suicide Commando is working on a new full length and that’s a damned good thing as the last ‘new’ album already dated from 2017 (!). This new EP features next to the title song the previously released single “Trick Or Treat” (released for Halloween 2021).

Content: The title song is not a cover version of the famous “Bang Bang”-song but a merciless Dark-Electro assault inspired by war and gun violence. A remix has been made by C-Lekktor. “Trick Or Treat” is another violent piece. Next to the original version there’s a surprising and totally different version/remix by Fuckbot.

+ + + : Suicide Commando strikes back with a bang. If both songs are teasers to the upcoming full length it will be one of the most violent works ever released by Johan Van Roy. “Bang Bang Bang” is a terrific piece of Dark-Electro; powerful, dark, danceable and tormented. I also want to say a word about the cool remix of “Trick Or Treat” by Fuckbot which even features a few Acid sequences.

– – – : Two singles instead of one so no reason to complain.

Conclusion: Suicide Commando added two more hits to its endless list; the true power of Dark-Electro!

Best songs: “Bang Bang Bang”, “Trick Or Treat”.

Rate: 8½.

Artist: www.suicidecommando.be / www.facebook.com/IIXIII

Labels: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel / www.metropolis-records.com / www.facebook.com/MetropolisRecords Read the news on ‘Bang Bang Bang’.

About Suicide Commando

Suicide Commando was founded in 1986 by Johan Van Roy in Leopoldsburg, Belgium. The project started out self-released on tape before signing to Off Beat in the mid-1990s.

Van Roy issued the debut album “Critical Stage” in 1994, followed by “Stored Images” (1995) and “Mindstrip” (2000), the latter via Dependent Records. Later albums include “Bind, Torture, Kill” (2006), “When Evil Speaks” (2013) and “Forest Of The Impaled” (2017), the last full-length before this EP.

The “Bang Bang Bang” EP appeared on Out Of Line in 2022. The full length it previewed followed later the same year as “Goddestruktor“. Van Roy returned to the earliest material again in July 2025 on the “Final Stage” EP, which reworked five songs from “Critical Stage” and added “De weg”, his first Suicide Commando song sung in Dutch.

]]> Hocico – HyperViolent (Album – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/hocico-hyperviolent-album-out-of-line/ Tue, 31 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37093 Genre/Influences: Dark-Electro, Cinematic, Industrial. Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette. Background/Info: Twentynine years after their creation...]]>

Genre/Influences: Dark-Electro, Cinematic, Industrial.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl, Cassette.

Background/Info: Twentynine years after their creation the masters of Mexican Dark-Electro are back on track unleashing their newest full length. the title speaks for itself. The fans will be ravished to know the album is available in different formats and with nice little extras.

Content: “HyperViolent” moves on from where “Artificial Extinction” stopped. Erk Aicrag and Racso Agroyam remain driven and inspired by dark themes but the sound is evolving again. The main part of the work is still touched by power, sonic aggression and harsh vocals but they move on to elaborate Cinematic parts but also injecting elements like D’n’B and Metal -including a cover version of Ministry.

+ + + : There was a time Hocico released great but predictable albums. This has changed now. Even if they’re still dealing with pure Dark-Electro the global production became more open-minded while featuring Cinematic breaks. Hocico even dares to experiment with D’n’B patterns while adding Metal riffs. The production of the vocals became also more diversified, revealing a less ‘distorted’ voice on several tracks. I can’t say this is Hocico V.2 but the band is clearly in evolution and that’s an aspect I fully respect. The song “Acts Of Aggression” is an absolute masterpiece for its elaboration and cool sound effects. “Broken Empires” -previously released as a single, remains another essential piece. It also shows the evolution of the band exploring different paths.

– – – : I can imagine Dark-Electro die-hard freaks will be disappointed by some songs which are no longer in the ‘classical’ Hocico style.

Conclusion: The new Hocico is still holding on to its sonic basis but also accentuating their exploration of new  ideas. It probably is their most versatile work.

Best songs: “Acts Of Aggression”, “Broken Empires”, “Lost World”, “What Are Nightmares Made Of”, “Peccata Mundi”.

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.facebook.com/hocicoofficial

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

About Hocico

Hocico is a Mexican electro-industrial duo from Mexico City formed in 1993 by cousins Erik García, known as Erk Aicrag, and Óscar Mayorga, known as Racso Agroyam. Aicrag handles lyrics and vocals, while Agroyam is responsible for programming and electronics. Before settling on the Hocico name, the pair worked under the names Niñera Degenerada and Hocico de Perro. Between 1993 and 1996 they released the demo cassettes “Misuse, Abuse And Accident”, “Autoagresión Persistente” and “Triste Desprecio”, before releasing the full lengths “Odio Bajo El Alma” in 1997 and “Sangre Hirviente” in 1999.

“Signos De Aberracion” followed in 2002, and “Wrack And Ruin” arrived in October 2004. After a four-year silence the band resumed with “Memorias Atrás” in February 2008 and “Tiempos De Furia” in October 2010. Later full lengths included “Ofensor” in 2015, “The Spell Of The Spider” in 2017 and “Artificial Extinction” in 2019.

Out Of Line also released the members’ parallel projects, with Erk Aicrag active in Rabia Sorda and Racso Agroyam in Dulce Liquido. “HyperViolent” arrived in 2022 and was followed by the “The Screen” EP in March 2025 and the album “Unseen Horror Scenes” in May 2026.

]]> Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio – La Fleur Du Mal (EP – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/ordo-rosarius-equilibrio-la-fleur-du-mal-ep-out-of-line/ Tue, 31 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=37097 Genre/Influences: Neo-Folk, Chanson, Dark-Pop. Format: Digital, CD. Background/Info: About three years after their last full...]]>

Genre/Influences: Neo-Folk, Chanson, Dark-Pop.

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: About three years after their last full length masterpiece “Let’s Play (Two Girls & A Goat)” Swedish formation Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio are back on track. The title “La Fleur Du Mal” clearly is a wink to the famous poems of Charles Baudelaire.

Content: Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio moves on from where the previous works stopped. They moved on, creating a perfect twist between their Neo-Folk & Dark-Pop sound on one side and their dark, provocative & sensual poetry on the other side. The sphere is sometimes a bit hostile but always holding on to a kind of evasive feeling. Bombastic- and refined arrangements are in perfect harmony with Tomas Pettersson’s deep timbre of voice.

+ + + : The opening song “In The Name Of The Sun, My Father And The Spirit” is a new masterpiece. Dark sensuality emerging from the composition creates a true symbiosis with the poetry of the lyrics. The next cut “No Time Like The Present – La Fleur Du Mal” sounds darker and even more intimidating but also uplifting. Different feelings are emerging when listening to this music but fascination always remains. These 4 cuts are a perfect teaser to the new album.

– – – : It’s all about personal taste but to me the best cuts are right in the beginning so after having heard the outstanding opener there’s no similar climax coming up.

Conclusion: Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio is a true artistic creation in the purest sense of the word and this EP is much more than simply an appetizer for the next work.

Best songs: “In The Name Of The Sun, My Father And The Spirit”, “No Time Like The Present – La Fleur Du Mal”.

Rate: 8½.

Artist: https://ordo-rosarius-equilibrio.net / www.facebook.com/ordorosariusequilibrio

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel

About Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio

Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio, often shortened to ORE, is a neofolk and martial industrial group from Stockholm. Tomas Pettersson started it in 1993 after his previous band Archon Satani ended, working at first under the name Ordo Equilibrio with his then-partner Chelsea Krook. Rose-Marie Larsen replaced Krook on backing vocals in 2001, and the word Rosarius was added to the name at that point. Fredrik Leijström and Ronnie Bäck joined on bass and guitar in 2008.

As Ordo Equilibrio the group released “Reaping the Fallen, The First Harvest” in 1995, “The Triumph of Light…. and Thy Thirteen Shadows of Love” and the “I4I” 7” in 1997, and “Conquest, Love & Self Perseverance” in 1998, all on Cold Meat Industry. Under the extended name came “Make Love, And War; The Wedlock of Roses” and “Make Love, And War; The Wedlock of Equilibrium” in 2001, “Cocktails, Carnage, Crucifixion And Pornography” in 2003, the Spiritual Front split “Satyriasis” in 2005, “Apocalips” in 2006, the “Four” 10” on Raubbau in 2007 and “O N A N I [Practice Makes Perfect]” in 2009.

The group moved to Out Of Line in 2010 with “Do Angels Never Cry, And Heaven Never Fall?” and “Songs 4 Hate & Devotion”, followed by the “4Play” EP in 2013, “Vision: Libertine – The Hangman’s Triad” in 2016 and “Let’s Play (two girls and a goat)” in 2019. The “La Fleur Du Mal” EP precedes the album “Nihilist Notes (And The Perpetual Quest 4 Meaning In Nothing)”, also issued in 2022.

]]> Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio reveal new single on release date new album ‘Nihilist Notes’ https://www.side-line.com/ordo-rosarius-equilibrio-reveal-new-single-on-release-date-new-album-nihilist-notes/ Tue, 24 May 2022 09:38:38 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36957 Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio release their new album “Nihilist Notes” today and now also share the...]]>
Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio reveal new single on release date new album 'Nihilist Notes'

Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio release their new album “Nihilist Notes” today and now also share the new single “I remember, the perpetual Search for the Meaning in Nothing”, which follows the 4-track mini-album “La Fleur du Mal” released in March.

“Nihilist Notes (And the Perpetual Quest 4 Meaning in Nothing)” is the fourth full-length album by Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio on the German label Out Of Line to which they signed in 2010 following the demise of Swedish cult label Cold Meat Industry.

“Nihilist Notes” is released today as CD Digipak and on cassette (in red incl. a pencil), and as a deluxe wooden box set, strictly limited to 444 pieces, which, in addition to the CD, also exclusively includes the album on 10″ vinyl and 5 collector’s coins with a noble case.

Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio explains the album’s concept: “In a world where the idea of hero and tyrant never has been more urgent. In a world where disinformation has become the new gospel. In times where the concept of good and evil is colored by crayons in various shades of grey. Nihilist Notes kindles the last fires of hope and takes us on a perpetual quest 4 meaning in nothing.”

Here’s the new single.

]]> Suicide Commando is back with a triple bang! All new MCD ‘Bang bang bang’ https://www.side-line.com/suicide-commando-is-back-with-a-triple-bang-all-new-mcd-bang-bang-bang/ Mon, 02 May 2022 10:42:02 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36616 (Photo by Sandra Sturm) To kick off the forthcoming album by Belgian hard-electro pioneer act...]]>
Suicide Commando is back with a triple bang! All new MCD 'Bang bang bang'

(Photo by Sandra Sturm) To kick off the forthcoming album by Belgian hard-electro pioneer act Suicide Commando, Johan van Roy and co. present a foretaste of what to expect: “Bang bang bang”. This 4-track maxi CD is available now on MCD in strictly limited edition of 500 copies worldwide.

Johan explains the track: “Each day too many people die from gun violence! Even though the song actually is about gun violence, it now also got an extra dimension with the current war in Ukraine. How power, greed, and hate can cause destruction & war. Make music, not war!”

In addition to “Bang bang bang”, the single “Trick or Treat” which was released on Halloween 2021 is also included on the maxi, along with a remix of each of these tracks.
Watch the video below.

You can check the full MCD below. Read the review of ‘Bang Bang Bang’.

]]> Massive Ego – The New Normal (EP – Out Of Line) https://www.side-line.com/massive-ego-the-new-normal-ep-out-of-line/ Wed, 27 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36497 Genre/Influences: Wave-Pop, Electro-Pop. Format: Digital, CD. Background/Info: Marc Massive and his gang strike back with...]]>

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

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: Marc Massive and his gang strike back with “The New Normal” featuring five new songs.Unfortunately the band has stopped its activities because of health issues.

Content: The EP is quite diversified, although featuring a familiar Electro/Wave-Pop thread from this British formation. The opening song sounds a bit more Rock-Pop driven but you next will discover a catchy composition mixing power and darkness.

+ + + : Marc Massive first of all is a great and charismatic singer. The vocals have a strong impact on the composition. Massive Ego also has a very personal approach in Electro-Pop music. I can’t find a better description than dark, catchy and also powerful. The last song “Not Without Consequence” is my personal favorite one but I also have to mention “Fake Star” and “Dead Eyes Black”.

– – – : Five cool songs but maybe not an ultimate new hit among this tracklist.

Conclusion: The Massive Ego fans will not be disappointed with this new Dark-Pop work.

Best songs: “Not Without Consequence”, “Fake Star”,  “Dead Eyes Black”.

Rate: 7½.

Artist: www.massiveego.co.uk 

Label: www.outofline.de  / www.facebook.com/outoflinelabel Read the news on ‘The New Normal’.

“The New Normal” was released on 11 February 2022 through Out Of Line, on CD and digitally. The five tracks are “You Will Comply”, “Fake Star”, “Dead Eyes Black”, “The Vampires Wife” and “Not Without Consequence”. Side-Line covered the ‘You Will Comply’ single in September 2021.

Marc Massive explained what the opening track was aiming at: “It certainly wasn’t anti-vac as some seemed to think, instead it asked that we remember to question authority instead of being silenced for fear of being coined ‘tin foil hat wearers’ or being shut down by a public that’s quick to jump on those who speak up in today’s cancel culture. The lyrics are ambiguous to open dialogue, and not just accept being under the rule of corrupt Governments, the powerful and global pharmaceutical companies.”

Listen to “The New Normal”:

About Massive Ego

Massive Ego formed in the United Kingdom in 1996 and came out of the short-lived New Romantic revival known as Romo. The band mixes synth-pop with darker 1980s wave influences and is fronted by Marc Massive. Its line-up has changed frequently across three decades, and the group has played WGT, M’era Luna, Amphi and Infest alongside touring in the UK and Europe.

Side-Line reviewed the EP “Noise In The Machine” in 2015, the double album “Beautiful Suicide” in 2017 and “Church For The Malfunctioned” in 2019, all on Out Of Line. The joint EP with Blutengel singer Chris Pohl, “Nothing But A Void”, followed in 2020.

The pause described in this review did not end the project. Marc Massive released the EP and short film ‘Idol Lies’ in 2023, and Massive Ego returned with the singles ‘In Your Own Darkness’ in 2024, ‘Hit the Kerb Running’ in April 2025 and ‘Man Become Monster’ in July 2025.

]]> Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio offer new ‘Nihilist Notes’ album as CD and boxset https://www.side-line.com/ordo-rosarius-equilibrio-offer-new-nihilist-notes-album-as-cd-and-boxset/ Tue, 26 Apr 2022 12:57:57 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36523 “Nihilist Notes (And the Perpetual Quest 4 Meaning in Nothing)” is the 4th full length...]]>

“Nihilist Notes (And the Perpetual Quest 4 Meaning in Nothing)” is the 4th full length album by Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio on Out of Line to which they signed in 2010, following the demise of the Swedish cult label Cold Meat Industry. The release will be out on May 20th.

Preceded by the super limited and immediately sold-out 4 track mini album “La Fleur du Mal” in March, “Nihilist Notes” appears to move away from the more melodic aspects of the full length album “Let’s Play [Two Girls & a Goat]” from 2019 with a sound that is more martial than folk.

Next to the 13-track digipak there is also a super deluxe wooden boxset, strictly limited to 444 pieces, which, in addition to the CD, also exclusively includes the album on double 10″ vinyl and 5 collector’s coins with a noble case.

]]> Ashbury Heights returns with ‘A Cut in a Place’ single featuring Madil Hardis https://www.side-line.com/ashbury-heights-returns-with-a-cut-in-a-place-single-featuring-madil-hardis/ Tue, 12 Apr 2022 09:50:30 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36366 Out now via Out Of Line is Ashbury Heights’ newest single “A Cut in a...]]>
Ashbury Heights returns with 'A Cut in a Place' single featuring Madil Hardis

Out now via Out Of Line is Ashbury Heights’ newest single “A Cut in a Place” featuring Madil Hardis.

The new single by the Swedish synth-pop band is part of the ’Ghost House Sessions’ cycle and “A Cut in a Place” is the second collaboration with Madil Hardis.

You can check the track below.

]]> Chris Pohl electropop project She Hates Emotions launches ‘Space and Time’ single and video https://www.side-line.com/chris-pohl-electropop-project-she-hates-emotions-launches-space-and-time-single-and-video/ Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:56:05 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36327 (Photo by Caitlin Stokes) Out now via Out Of Line Music is the all new...]]>
Chris Pohl electropop project She Hates Emotions launches 'Space and Time' single and video

(Photo by Caitlin Stokes) Out now via Out Of Line Music is the all new single from the Chris Pohl powered electropop project She Hates Emotions. “Space and Time” is the first new single/video from the upcoming album “Happy Pop Music” which is the follow-up album to the project’s debut “Melancholic Maniac”.

Chris comments about the first single: “‘Space & Time’ was the first song I wrote for the new She Hates Emotions album. It’s about the incessant search for your soulmate… The person you want by your side. You know that this person exists, but you haven’t found him or her yet and you’ll keep searching…. On the album “Happy Pop Music”, I continue to combine 80s sounds with melancholic lyrics. Not as bombastic as Blutengel, rather very minimal. The lyrics are, as always, very personal. It’s about love, pain, fear, becoming older, depression… Everything that has occupied me in recent years. Therefore, the album title is also meant to be absolutely ironic!”

Here’s the video for “Space and Time”.

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