The Breath Of Life – SIDE-LINE https://www.side-line.com Industrial, electro, EBM, post-punk, darkwave news Fri, 17 Oct 2025 17:44:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.side-line.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-side-line-logo-png-32x32.png The Breath Of Life – SIDE-LINE https://www.side-line.com 32 32 Alfa Matrix marks 24 years with a 69-track free label sampler, ‘Matrix+ Downloaded 012’ https://www.side-line.com/alfa-matrix-matrix-plus-downloaded-012-free-69/ Fri, 17 Oct 2025 17:43:04 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=80721 The Belgian electro label Alfa Matrix releases the twelfth volume in its “Matrix+ Downloaded” series...]]>

The Belgian electro label Alfa Matrix releases the twelfth volume in its “Matrix+ Downloaded” series to coincide with the label’s 24th anniversary. The digital-only set collects 69 tracks across the label’s current spectrum – EBM, dark elektro/industrial, synth pop – and newer Spleen+ additions spanning post-punk, goth rock and coldwave. The compilation is offered as a free/pay-what-you-want download via the label’s Bandcamp page and also includes a PDF booklet.

On the cover you will recognize Erica Dunham from Unter Null.

Artists included on this free download compilation include: Studio-X (feat. Kyoko Baertsoen), Rector Scanner, Aesthetische, Cut.Rate.Box, Kant Kino, Frontal Boundary, C-Lekktor, Acylum, Diffuzion, Implant, Neikka RPM, First Aid 4 Souls (feat. Aux Animaux), Noemi Aurora, Suicidal Romance, Llumen, Hanging Freud, Lederman/De Meyer, The Ultimate Dreamers, Aiboforcen, Digital Factor, Armageddon Dildos, Helalyn Flowers, Krystal System, The True Union, Freakangel, Totem Obscura, Lovelorn Dolls (feat. Dero Goi), The Breath of Life, The Names, ImJudas, Synapsyche, Miseria Ultima, Unter Null, Alien Vampires (feat. Dani Divine), Venal Flesh, Helle9, To Avoid, Pouppée Fabrikk, Stahlgeist, Nigra Nebula, Aengeldust, Circuito Cerrado, Matthew Creed, Cubic, Metroland, The Psychic Force, Komor Kommando, First Aid Tech, Die Robo Sapiens, ELM, Plastic Noise Experience, AD:Key, Elektroklänge, 808 Dot Pop, Avarice in Audio, Elektrostaub (feat. Echo Image), Cryogenic Echelon, Entrzelle, Neuroactive, Technoir, Mondträume, Star Industry, Stray, Psy’Aviah (feat. Sorrow Stories), Zombie Girl, Darkness on Demand, Circumpolar, Dunkelwerk, and Lights A.M.

A&R manager, Sebastien Dolimont says: “In 2025, Alfa Matrix proudly celebrates 24 years of existence. Nearly a quarter of a century fighting for dark alternative music, discovering new talents, and keeping the underground alive. This anniversary is not just about us and our artists – it’s about you, our fans. Because without your constant support, there would be no label, no releases, no future for the scene we all love.”

And he add: “In a world where indie labels are disappearing, streaming revenues collapse, and risks of signing new talents are higher than ever, we are proud to still stand strong — but we can only do it with you by our side. By downloading this compilation, you are not just enjoying music — you are actively supporting 69 artists and helping keep our scene alive, fresh, and forward-looking. From all of us at Alfa Matrix and Spleen+, and on behalf of all our artists: thank you for 24 years of loyalty, passion, and support. Together, we’ll keep writing the future of the dark underground.”

About Alfa Matrix

Alfa Matrix is a Brussels-based independent label founded in 2001. The catalogue focuses on electronic subgenres including industrial, EBM, dark elektro, and synth pop, later expanding into post-punk/coldwave via the Spleen+ division. The label’s team includes label & artists manager Seba Dolimont, promo manager Bernard Van Isacker, and head of design Benoît Blanchart.

From the early 2000s, Alfa Matrix used series-based releases to build international reach. Notable strands include “Sounds From The Matrix” (label samplers), “Re:Connected” (digital label overview), and the club-oriented “Endzeit Bunkertracks” multi-CD anthologies (first “Act” released 21 March 2005, featuring 60 tracks with 50 exclusives).

In 2023, Alfa Matrix inaugurated Spleen+, a division centred on post-punk and adjacent styles, and followed with multi-artist projects and catalogue building, including the “Resurgence” 7-CD box that assembled 133 contemporary bands from the post-punk family.

This interview is part of an ongoing interview series that we do in collaboration with Spleen+ / Alfa Matrix for the massive 7CD post-punk / coldwave / minimal electro boxset “Resurgence”. You can order this fine set as a 7CD set or as a download via Bandcamp. This release will NOT be available on Spotify or any other service, except for Bandcamp.

The label has since the very start focused on a direct contact with its fans and customers via their online webstore and Bandcamp.

]]> The Breath Of Life interview: ‘Wearing black clothes even if it’s sunny’ https://www.side-line.com/the-breath-of-life-interview/ Thu, 24 Jul 2025 16:52:29 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=78728 (Interview by Seba Dolimont) Since 1985, the Belgian band The Breath Of Life delivers a...]]>

(Interview by Seba Dolimont) Since 1985, the Belgian band The Breath Of Life delivers a riveting performance, blending captivating melodies, enchanting ethereal voices and a unique sound blend of cold wave, gothic rock and post punk. Ahead of their upcoming 11th album drop, they celebrated their remarkable 39-year journey with the release of the transcending 40-track anthology “Echoes Of Time”. The quartet make us the honor to reveal an all-new song on the “Resurgence” compilation box!  We seized the opportunity to meet their lead singer Isabelle Dekeyser and their bass player Didier Czepczyk for a melancholic look back at the past…  

This interview is part of an ongoing interview series that we do in collaboration with Spleen+ / Alfa Matrix for the massive 7CD post-punk / coldwave / minimal electro boxset “Resurgence”. You can order this fine set as a 7CD set or as a download via Bandcamp. This release will NOT be available on Spotify or any other service, except for Bandcamp.

S+. Could you briefly introduce yourselves in a few words?

Didier Cz : I play music since the late 80’s. I was then about 17 years old. Since then, I’ve played in so many bands that I cannot remember the name of all of them. The most important to me is, for sure, The Breath Of Life. I joined them in 2000 as guitar player. And after the come-back of Phil, I moved to bass guitar. I’ve also been involved in organisation of concerts and festivals in Belgium (« Fantastique Nights » and « Club New Wave » in Brussels, « Trolls And Legend » in Mons). I did writings too … many reviews in paper magazines or webzines (« Peek A Boo », « Kulturo Point » …) and radios (Radio Rectangle …)… 

Isabelle : I’m the singer of The Breath of Life since 1985. Originally from Belgium, The Breath Of Life crossed the border very soon and played all over Europe including big events such as Zillo Festival, M’era luna, Castle Party, Whitby Festival, Gothic Autumn Night, Eurorock, Dour Festival, Wave Gotik Treffen, etc.  So far, we have 10 full albums + few EP’s… 

S+. Tell us more about your current music-related priorities in 2025?

Didier Cz : Stil trying to play and create a music that makes you shiver! Something which could make you love sadness… 

Isabelle : We have worked on the The Breath Of Life collection “Echoes Of Time – A 39-Year Musical Anthology” (40 songs  and a 40-page booklet) released in early 2024.  Then we kept working on new songs we feel from deep inside, recording and sharing them in live performances.  

S+. What do terms like “post punk”, “cold wave”, “new wave”… mean for you in your own musical career? 

Didier Cz : I’ve always talked about « New Wave », Younger, I didn’t know about post or cold wave. These are just nuances … Like gloss, satin or matt colours.

Isabelle : the importance of this genre of music goes beyond my musical career.  I was 13 when I discovered that music and I knew that was the music I could feel and enjoy the most.  That music made and make me feel alive.

S+. According to you, which elements made these good old days so special?

Didier Cz : My age, I was young at that time … A real rookie in life. I didn’t know anything. But I didn’t care. When you got nothing,  …  You got power.

Isabelle : I would say the discovery of new sounds, new rhythms, new style, much more creativity, the real singularity of some bands, a deeper world, freedom, the friendship, the excitement while watching live bands, paper magazines, …

S+. And what are for you the main similarities and differences between today’s alternative music scene anno 2025 and what it used to be back then in the late 70’s/early 80’s?

Didier Cz : One big difference to me : Internet and social medias on the web. You can promote yourself in a way which was not conceivable in the eighties. Sending a letter takes more time and energy than a fucking mail.

S+. If you could describe this musical movement with only a few words only, what would you say?

Didier Cz : Wearing black clothes even if it’s sunny.

]]> The Breath Of Life interview: ‘Totally crashing, and now healing’ https://www.side-line.com/the-breath-of-life-interview-totally-crashing-and-now-healing/ Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:06:41 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=76188 When The Breath Of Life released “Echoes of Time” last year – a breathtaking retrospective...]]>

When The Breath Of Life released “Echoes of Time” last year – a breathtaking retrospective of nearly four decades – they promised a new album was on the horizon. But life had other plans…  Lead singer Isabelle Dekeyser was forced to pause everything, facing a deeply personal battle that reshaped her world. Yet, from that darkness, the band emerges with “Slowly Crashing”, a new EP that resonates with raw emotion, resilience, and the unmistakable essence of The Breath Of Life. Ethereal, intense, and deeply personal, the release is not just a return – it’s a statement.

In this exclusive interview, Isabelle opens up about her journey, the emotions woven into the new songs, and what the future holds for their ever-evolving sound. They are rising up in a parallel world…

The new EP is out now on Bandcamp.

S. Your last release, “Echoes of Time,” was a retrospective celebrating nearly four decades of music. How does this new EP, “Slowly Crashing,” mark the next chapter for The Breath of Life?

I. For sure, seen like this, this new chapter will be shorter than the first one. (laugh) I rather see this EP as a continuation of the voyage. 

S. Isabelle, you faced a challenging period that temporarily put things on hold. If we may ask… how did this experience shape the music and themes of your new songs?

I. I have indeed gone through very difficult times with intense emotions including shocks and a lot of fear.  I felt as if, suddenly, I was living in a parallel world. When I read these new lyrics I wrote, I can feel the darkness I went through. With touches of letting go and then light, which is so important to rise up again from all of that. 

This interview is part of an ongoing interview series that we do in collaboration with Spleen+ / Alfa Matrix for the massive 7CD post-punk / coldwave / minimal electro boxset “Resurgence”. You can order this fine set as a 7CD set or as a download via Bandcamp. This release will NOT be available on Spotify or any other service, except for Bandcamp.

S. Now that you’re back on stage and in the studio, we suppose it means that things are going for a better for you?

I. I’m getting better.  Thank you.  I still learn to manage my treatments though…

S. Your signature sound blends ethereal vocals, post-punk energy, and darkwave atmosphere. How did you approach the sound design on your new songs compared to your past releases?

I. I like your description! I think that the BREATH OF LIFE sound will remain the TBOL sound!  We just build up the songs all together and each band member brings his/her own touch.  We never tried to sound like someone. We sound like who we are.

S. Can you tell us more about the meaning behind the new songs “Slowly Crashing” and “Down We Go”?

I. I wrote the lyrics and recorded « Slowly Crashing » two days before my surgery.  I don’t know why but I needed to do it.  Did I make it « just in case I would not get back? Well…  Maybe?  This song is about the unwanted thoughts that prevent you from sleeping… “Down We Go” is about a wonderful memory of having seen Lene Lovich live at the club « The Underworld” in London…

S. What can fans expect next? Is this EP a taste of a full-length album to come?

I. Absolutely.  We also hope to make more live shows in the future…

]]> The Breath Of Life back with new EP, ‘Slowly Crashing’ – Out now https://www.side-line.com/the-breath-of-life-back-with-new-ep-slowly-crashing-out-now/ Sat, 15 Feb 2025 11:44:33 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=74795 Out now via the Belgian post-punk label Spleen+ is the brand new EP from The...]]>

Out now via the Belgian post-punk label Spleen+ is the brand new EP from The Breath Of Life, “Slowly Crashing”. The new EP holds 4 tracks and is available first on Bandcamp with all other platforms following on February 28th.

This is the first new release since the band released their “Echoes Of Time” anthology last year which retracing nearly four decades of making music. The single is a first teaser for the band’s 11th album which took longer than expected to be recorded due to health problems of lead singer Isabelle Dekeyser.

The brand-new 4-track EP also comes with an official video clip for the title track “Slowly Crashing”. It also holds the previous 2023 single “Down We Go” remixed by KEZDOWN who also has a take on the title track. The 4th track is a post-punk/new wave reinterpretation of “The Part You Can’t See”, originally by the Belgian electro-pop act Psy’aviah.

The Breath Of Life are Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Philippe Mauroy (guitar, drum programming), Giovanni Bortolin (violin, keyboards), and Didier Czepczyk (bass).

About The Breath of Life

The Breath of Life, a Belgian darkwave and gothic rock ensemble, emerged in the late 1980s. The band consists of frontwoman Isabelle Dekeyser, Philippe Mauroy on guitar and programming, Giovanni Bortolin handling keyboards and violin, and Didier Czepczyk on bass.

Formed in 1985 in Gembloux, Belgium, Dekeyser, Mauroy, and bassist Benoît Sokay initially started as a trio. The addition of Bortolin in 1990, formerly of Jo Lemaire + Flouze, enriched their sound with keyboards and violin. For drums, they opted for a drum machine. A self-produced 10-track cassette was released that same year. The excellent live album “Live in Praha ’92” captured the true strength of their live performances.

Their debut studio album, “Painful Insanity” (1992), produced by Gilles Martin (Bel Canto), was followed by “Taste of Sorrow” (1993), which featured the track “Nasty Cloud,” a gothic club hit.

The 1995 album “Lost Children” explored a more delicate, ethereal atmosphere, while “Sweet Party” (1997) introduced pop and electronic elements into their material. With the 2000 album “Silver Drops”, they incorporated melancholic pop influences and trip-hop elements. During this time, Czepczyk replaced Mauroy on guitar, and the band transitioned from drum machines to live drumming with Marc Haerden joining in 2000.

“Everlasting Souls” (2005) and “Whispering Fields” (2012) marked a return to their gothic roots. In 2015, Mauroy rejoined, and the band released “Under the Falling Stars” (2017), with Gilles Martin returning as producer.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, The Breath of Life recorded their 10th album, “Sparks Around Us”, with members collaborating remotely. During lockdown, they also released covers of “Winning” by The Sound, “Ashes to Ashes” by David Bowie, and “Inner Station” by Minimal Compact exclusively on Bandcamp.

]]> ‘Resurgence’, a massive 7CD post-punk boxset to be released in January 2025 – Pre-order now https://www.side-line.com/massive-7cd-post-punk-boxset-resurgence-to-be-released-in-december-pre-order-now/ Sun, 06 Oct 2024 15:25:46 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=52654 The Brussels-based Spleen+ label (a division of Alfa Matrix) has prepared a deluxe 7CD collector’s...]]>

The Brussels-based Spleen+ label (a division of Alfa Matrix) has prepared a deluxe 7CD collector’s edition – “Resurgence” – which brings together 133 active bands from across the globe, spanning the diverse sub-genres born from post-punk’s iconic roots. You can order it now from the Alfa Matrix webstore and in digital download format from Bandcamp.

The release comes housed in a luxurious vinyl-sized box, and comes accompanied by a 28-page book. The book holds interviews from renowned producers like John Fryer and Jean-Marc Lederman, label managers, journalists, and iconic artists (including Red Lorry Yellow Lorry, William Faith, No More, Skeletal Family, Mona Mur, KaS Product, And Also The Trees, Clan Of Xymox, Attrition, Das Ich, Merciful Nuns, The Names, The Breath Of Life, etc).

Spanning 23 different nationalities, the music included is a genre-spanning mix of post-punk, cold wave, dark synth, ethereal, and minimal EBM with such bands like Boy Harsher, A Cloud Of Ravens, No More, Skeletal Family, Collection D’Arnell Andrea, Underviewer, Attrition, Merciful Nuns, Lederman/De Meyer, Local Suicide & Sekelesys, Star Industry, Ataraxia, Czarina, Helalyn Flowers, Ascii.Disko, Je T’Aime, The Ultimate Dreamers, Lycia, Opera Multi Steel, The Breath Of Life, Auger, The Names, Whispers In The Shadow, Lovelorn Dolls, Astari Nite, Chiasm, Saigon Blue Rain, Omnimar, Still Patient, Creux Lies, Golden Apes, and many more.

You can already check out a few tracks here.

Apart from the 7CD vinyl size deluxe carton box format, “Resurgence” will not be available on mainstream digital platforms, except exclusively via the label’s Bandcamp page.

There is also a special combi pack including the 7CD set plus Darkness On Demand’s “Panic In Reserve” CD and To Avoid’s “All Gods Are Gone” 2CD.

“Resurgence” Tracklist

Cd 1

  1. Bestial Mouths . Hex (The Spell)
  2. A Cloud Of Ravens . Parable
  3. Boy Harsher . Give Me A Reason
  4. Czarina . Wonderland
  5. Collection D’arnell Andrea . Waiting For Meaulnes
  6. Krystal System . La Lame Dans Ta Main
  7. Je T’aime . Out Of Sight
  8. Aeon Rings . Fully Operational
  9. The Ultimate Dreamers . Polarized
  10. Partikul . Nothing Good In Me
  11. Cosmobrigade . Spacepit
  12. Aeon Sable . From Witchcraft To Deviltry
  13. Stereoskop . Deep Down
  14. The Breath Of Life . Slowly Crushing
  15. Faust Project . Rats Lullaby
  16. Al . Mistake
  17. N.E.L. & J.P . Desinteresse
  18. Zeitgeist Zero . Scream
  19. Voyna . Moulding Heart

Cd 2

  1. Blackbook . You Are Strange
  2. Auger . My Heart Is Glass
  3. Dekad . A Deadly Show (Video Edit)
  4. Love In Cage . A Logical Secret Collection
  5. Helalyn Flowers . Halos
  6. Soft Scent . No Wounds
  7. Sweet Ermengarde . Sweet Sacrifice
  8. Martin Dupont . Bent At The Window (2023)
  9. The Names . Far From The Factories
  10. Boxes Of Blow . Melting Faces
  11. Mirror Of Haze Feat. Primitive Heart . Reckless
  12. A Slice Of Life . Seven Days
  13. Then Comes Silence . Pretty Creatures
  14. Nite . Inside Of My Head
  15. Astari Nite . Bowie In Daydreams
  16. Korus . Złote Światło Pierwszego Zachodu
  17. Lovelorn Dolls . A Heart Cries
  18. Whispers In The Shadow . Revenants
  19. Merciful Nuns . Oneironauts

Cd 3

  1. Lederman – De Meyer . Heartbeat
  2. Local Suicide & Skelesys . Surface Of The Sun (Radio Edit)
  3. Punx Soundcheck Feat. Ascii.Disko & Princess Superstar . Gasoline
  4. No More . Sleepers And Trains
  5. Mitra Mitra . Memories For Company
  6. A Copy For Collapse Feat. Simona Pietrucci . Faded
  7. Alien Skin . Depress Me
  8. White Mansion . Cancel The Sky
  9. Apnoie . Splash Your Bile
  10. Celluloide . Compte Les Ombres
  11. Risk Risk . Streetwalk
  12. Total Chroma . Northern Lights
  13. Opera Multi Steel . À Nos Moments Perdus
  14. Lycia . Simpler Times
  15. Noemi Aurora . Blood As Lipstick
  16. Novus . Ess
  17. I Ya Toyah . Death’s Kiss
  18. Katcross . Rest
  19. Winter Severity Index . Speak To Me

Cd 4

  1. Systeme Paradoxe . Comme Le Sable En Hiver
  2. Aiboforcen . Break The Black Ice (Original Mix)
  3. Chiasm . Cut Right Through (Emileigh Rohn Edit)
  4. Saigon Blue Rain . Dolls Dresses
  5. Her Own World . Mistrust
  6. Still Patient Feat. Minu-Schirin Samimi . Blind Vision
  7. Creux Lies . Playtime
  8. Der Klinke . Curtains (Your Life On Hold Remix)
  9. On The Floor . Crying On The Dancefloor
  10. Numa Echos Feat. Red Zebra . Waisted Items
  11. Factheory . The Day (Ok Lion! Mix – Short Version)
  12. Antiflvx . Crystal
  13. Flor Concreta . She’s Closer
  14. Golden Apes . Ash Trees
  15. Glis . Blue Sky Night
  16. Ataraxia . The Source
  17. Hanging Freud . Grooming
  18. Ok Lion! . Get Away
  19. Yuzna . Queen Of The Eels

Cd 5

  1. The Breath Of Life Feat. Implant . The Last Record
  2. The Halo Trees . Happy Man
  3. Palm Ghosts . Tilt
  4. Your Life On Hold . Imprisoned (Merciless Radio Edit)
  5. Götterdämmerung . Common Existence
  6. Jenni Sex . Sin Chimes
  7. Denner . She Radiates Darkness
  8. Imjudas . I Love You
  9. Black Needle Noise . Dollhouse On Fire
  10. Dead Souls Rising . Dysmorphobia
  11. The Waning Moon . Annabel
  12. Korinthians . Leader Of The Night
  13. Elektrostaub Feat. Stefan Netschio . Mantis (Auger Remix)
  14. Omnimar . The Matrix
  15. Synapsyche Feat. Chris Harms (Lord Of The Lost) . The Last Dying Flame
  16. Dance My Darling . Criminal
  17. First Aid 4 Souls Feat. Emke Of Black Nail Cabaret . Das Messer
  18. Supernova 1006 . Tell Your Name (Mix)
  19. Suicidal Romance . Runaways

Cd 6

  1. Ascii.Disko . Loslassen
  2. Vioflesh . Emotions
  3. Dina Summer . Who Am I (Club Version)
  4. Pleasure Victim . Rascheln
  5. Pink Opake . Pronta
  6. Thewalkingicon . The Trail (Radio Edit)
  7. Psy’aviah Feat. Sorrow Stories . Healing
  8. Seasurfer . Collapsing
  9. Lakeside X . Fire In The Sky (Radio Version)
  10. Darkness On Demand . Hang On (Winterhart Remix)
  11. Star Industry . Selling Icons (The Dreamside Remix)
  12. Alphavox . Dark Satellite
  13. Yama Uba . Shapes
  14. Lifeless Past . Anxiety
  15. Pink Turns Blue . Not Gonna Take It
  16. Social Union . Waiting For Red
  17. Sine . Until (Clan Of Xymox Remix)
  18. Sorry, Heels . She Burns (We Burn) Version
  19. Lights A.M . Clouds

Cd 7

  1. Useless/You . Echo
  2. Attrition . The Great Derailer
  3. Children Of Zeal . Taking Over
  4. Octolab . Friend Or Foe
  5. Vague Phonique . The Last Man
  6. Midnight Poetry . Black Hole
  7. The Overlookers . Undercover (Edit)
  8. La Machine . Vamos A La Playa (Radiomix)
  9. Die Sexual . House Of God
  10. Carrellee . Morning Sun
  11. Underviewer . Was Soll Ich Tun (Aiboforcen Remix)
  12. Night In Athens . Words Unspoken
  13. Neila Invo . Alienation
  14. Skeletal Family . My Own Redemption
  15. The Murder Mystery . A Girl Named Red
  16. Princess Ugly . For A Moment I Forgot The Desolation
  17. Instant Lake . Ivory Dreams
  18. Vision Video . Balaclava Kiss
  19. La Scaltra . Dancing On Debris
]]> Lovelorn Dolls launch all new EP and video for ‘Beautiful Chaos’ https://www.side-line.com/lovelorn-dolls-launch-all-new-ep-and-video-for-beautiful-chaos/ Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:38:25 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=48104 The Belgian goth pop duo Lovelorn Dolls follows-up its latest single “Dream World” with “Beautiful...]]>

The Belgian goth pop duo Lovelorn Dolls follows-up its latest single “Dream World” with “Beautiful Chaos” which offers a darker sounds than we are used from them. The new EP goes hand in hand with an official video clip for the title track. The 6-track EP is out on all download and streaming platforms.

This single is the second one from Lovelorn Doll’s upcoming 4th album, “Deadtime Stories”, currently in the works with Italian producer Maxx Maryan from Helalyn Flowers / ImJudas.

The EP comes complete with 5 bonus remixes from minimal EBM to industrial goth and ethereal wave. Contributors include The Breath Of Life, Audiopyre, Absynthe Of Faith, Restriction 9, and Antidote For Annie.

Here’s the video for the single.

]]> Belgian cult goth / coldwave act The Breath Of Life releases 40-track strong anthology on Bandcamp – out now https://www.side-line.com/belgian-cult-goth-coldwave-act-the-breath-of-life-releases-40-track-strong-anthology-on-bandcamp-out-now/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 15:32:39 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=47936 Out now via Bandcamp is “Echoes Of Time – A 39​-​Year Musical Anthology” by the...]]>

Out now via Bandcamp is “Echoes Of Time – A 39​-​Year Musical Anthology” by the belgian cult goth / coldwave act The Breath Of Life. The release comes as they prepare the release of their 11th album.

On this 40-track strong compilation the band delivers a nice overview of their career which started in 1985. The release features rare gems and unreleased material that unveils the band’s evolution—from the raw energy of early demo tapes to the slick sound of their most recent digital single. Also included is a cover of David Bowie’s “Ashes To Ashes”.

In 2023, the band joined forces with the newly minted Spleen+ division of the Belgian Alfa Matrix label. Their first label release is the recently released EP “Down We Go”. Anno 2024, The Breath Of Life are Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Philippe Mauroy (guitar, drums programming), Giovanni Bortolin (violin, keyboards) and Didier Czepczyk (bass).

The Bandcamp version comes with a 40-page booklet holding exclusive band photos and insights into the band’s career.

]]> Alfa Matrix unleashes new free massive download compilation – Dominates industrial Bandcamp charts overnight! https://www.side-line.com/alfa-matrix-unleashes-new-free-massive-download-compilation-dominates-industrial-bandcamp-charts-overnight/ Fri, 14 Jul 2023 12:28:25 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43796 Alfa Matrix, the renowned Belgian label, commemorates its 22nd anniversary with yet another mastodont compilation...]]>
Alfa Matrix unleashes free download compilation - Dominates industrial Bandcamp charts overnight!

Alfa Matrix, the renowned Belgian label, commemorates its 22nd anniversary with yet another mastodont compilation on Bandcamp. The latest installment in the acclaimed “Matrix Downloaded” series, titled “Matrix+ Downloaded 011”, is now available as a free download on their Bandcamp page. Packed with 60 tracks, including new signings and a preview of the upcoming Spleen+ label releases, this compilation showcases Alfa Matrix’s diverse music repertoire.

“Matrix+ Downloaded 011” soared to the top of the industrial Bandcamp charts within hours of its release, claiming the coveted number 1 position.

The collection holds 60 tracks in total including several new signings. These are the bands present on this brand new free download compilation: Hanging Freud, The Ultimate Dreamers, The Breath Of Life, Psy’Aviah Feat. Sorrow Stories, ImJudas, Star Industry, Halo In Reverse, Lovelorn Dolls, The True Union, Freakangel, Avarice In Audio, Siva Six, Alien Vampires, Synapsyche, Helalyn Flowers, Neuroactive, Elektrostaub Feat. Stefan Netschio, Technoir, Entrzelle, Llumen, Noemi Aurora, Aiboforcen Feat. Jan D., Reichsfeind, Mondträume Feat. N-Frequency, The Psychic Force, Digital Factor, Implant, Darkness On Demand, Aesthetische, Komor Kommando Vs. The True Union, Matthew Creed, C-Lekktor, First Aid Tech, Pouppee Fabrikk, ELM, Die Robo Sapiens, Plastic Noise Experience, Armageddon Dildos, Stahlgeist, AD:keY, Kant Kino, Suicidal Romance, Miseria Ultima, First Aid 4 Souls, Neikka RPM, Circumpolar, Venal Flesh, Helle9, Diffuzion, Acylum, Circuito Cerrado, Aengeldust, Studio-X, 808 Dot Pop, Cubic, Metroland, Rector Scanner, Elektroklänge, Cosmic Armchair, Lights A.M.

You can download “Matrix+ Downloaded 011” for free via Bandcamp.

]]> Out now: Brand new The Cure tribute 2CD compilation via Alfa Matrix and Spleen+ featuring 27 songs: ‘A Strange Play (Vol. 2) – Tribute to The Cure’ https://www.side-line.com/alfa-matrix-and-spleen-to-release-second-tribute-album-to-the-cure-featuring-27-songs-a-strange-play-vol-2-tribute-to-the-cure/ Thu, 29 Jun 2023 14:26:25 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=42669 Nine years after the release of their first tribute to The Cure, titled “A Strange...]]>

Nine years after the release of their first tribute to The Cure, titled “A Strange Play – Tribute to The Cure“, Alfa Matrix and Spleen+ have joined forces to create a follow-up tribute album. The second volume in the series, “A Strange Play (Vol. 2) – Tribute to The Cure“, features 27 tracks, including electro, synth pop, EBM acts from Alfa Matrix and cold wave, post-punk, and gothic rock bands from their Spleen+ division and is out now via Bandcamp, the label’s webstore and all other platforms.

The album includes reinterpretations of classic hits and lesser-known B-sides, shedding new light on the original tracks or giving them an entirely different sonic perspective. The tribute album itself this time is a collaborative effort between both established and emerging artists from the Alfa Matrix and Spleen+ rosters.

Compiled by and for The Cure fans, this new tribute adventure brings together a growing roster of Spleen+ artists, including Noemi Aurora, Star Industry, Imjudas, The Ultimate Dreamers, The Breath of Life, and Lovelorn Dolls. Additionally, the album features synth and electro cult acts, as well as upcoming Alfa Matrix artists, such as Neuroactive, Armageddon Dildos, Implant, Darkness on Demand (formerly Dance or Die), Helle9 (an Alien Vampires side-project), Metroland, Aesthetische featuring Zombie Girl, Aiboforcen, Technoir, Kant Kino, Digital Factor, Regenerator, Lights A.M (an Essence of Mind solo project), Neikka RPM, First Aid 4 Souls, Diffuzion, Avarice in Audio, Elektroklänge, Circumpolar, and Cosmic Armchair.

In conjunction with the release of “A Strange Play (Vol. 2),” goth-metal/darkwave act Lovelorn Dolls has released a single and accompanying video clip for their cover of “Lullaby.” The music video, created entirely using artificial intelligence, tells the story of a girl pursued by a mysterious, threatening, yet alluring man. The video’s creator, Kristell, was inspired by her own childhood experience of being both fascinated and frightened by The Cure’s original “Lullaby” music video.

Here’s the track list for the new volume which is available now on 2CD via the Alfa Matrix webstore and as download via the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page and the Spleen+ Bandcamp page.

Here’s the first volume.

]]> Belgian goth / coldwave act The Breath Of Life signs to Spleen+, announces new album and immediately releases a download EP https://www.side-line.com/belgian-goth-coldwave-act-the-breath-of-life-signs-to-spleen-announces-new-album-and-immediately-releases-a-download-ep/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:08:19 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=43537 The Breath of Life was formed in 1985 and the band immediately stood out thanks...]]>

The Breath of Life was formed in 1985 and the band immediately stood out thanks to a creative originality, as a result they are the best known cold wave gothic rock band from Belgium. The band has now signed to the brand new post-punk label Spleen+ (division of Alfa Matrix) where they will be releasing their 11th album.

A first excerpt in the format of a 3-track EP is out now via Bandcamp (and all other platforms): “Down We Go”. The EP evokes good old ethereal moments from the 4AD cult years merged with their classic darkwave roots. Also added to this 3-track release is the band’s take on The Cure’s “The Lovecats” which got turned into a much darker version. As 3rd track you get a more electronic song which is their very own reinterpretation of Implant’s “The Last Record” featuring Len Lemeire himself on backing vocals.

Anno 2023, The Breath Of Life are Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Philippe Mauroy (guitar, drums programming), Giovanni Bortolin (violin, keyboards), Didier Czepczyk (bass).

Below is the video for “The Lovecats”.

About The Breath Of Life

The group was formed in 1985 in Gembloux when Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Philippe Mauroy (guitar), and Benoît Sokay (bass) first met. In 1990, with the addition of Giovanni Bortolin (keyboards & violin – formerly of Jo Lemaire + Flouze) and the decision to incorporate a drum machine, the group independently produced a 10-track cassette. In 1991, the band embarked on a tour in Czechoslovakia, followed by another tour the following year, which is reflected in their debut CD “Live in Praha 92”.

That same year, they released their first studio album “Painful Insanity,” recorded by Gilles Martin, a renowned producer of Coldwave (Minimal Compact, Tuxedomoon, Anna Domino, Colin Newman, Malaria, The Names, Indochine). 1993 marked their breakthrough with the release of “Taste of Sorrow,” also produced by Martin, featuring the title track “Nasty Cloud,” which became a gothic classic.

In 1995, the band released “Lost Children,” showcasing a more ethereal wave style. They subsequently signed with Hall of Sermon for their next album, “Sweet Party,” which came out in 1997 and marked a shift towards a more pop and electronic sound. In 2000, they released “Silver Drops,” once again with Martin at the mixing desk. The album combined melancholic pop with elements of trip hop. Shortly after, Mauroy departed the band, and Didier Czepczyk took over on guitars.

With the albums “Everlasting Souls” (2005) and “Whispering Fields” (2012), the band returned to their gothic roots and introduced a real drummer, Marc Haerden. Benoît Sokay, the bassist since the band’s inception, left in 2014, and in January 2015, Philippe Mauroy rejoined the band, almost 15 years after his departure.

In May 2017, the album “Under The Falling Stars” was released, marking the return of Gilles Martin as the producer. In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and while Belgium was still under lockdown, the band decided to record their 10th album. Each member recorded their respective parts at home and shared the files using WeTransfer. However, when COVID-19 restrictions allowed, two band members traveled to France and met with Gilles Martin for the final mixing process. The resulting album, titled “Spark Around Us,” was released in November 2020.

During the lockdown in Belgium, the band recorded three cover songs: “Winning” by The Sound, “Ashes To Ashes” by David Bowie, and “Inner Station” by Minimal Compact. These covers were exclusively released on Bandcamp. In 2022, they were approached by the Belgian record label Alfa Matrix for various compilation projects. The band was asked to cover a song from the Belgian electro project Implant, a song from the electro-pop band Psy’Aviah, and a song from the Italian project Imjudas.

As one thing led to another, the band was soon approached to join Alfa Matrix’s post-punk sublabel, Spleen+.

]]> V/A Anthologies 3 (Album – Je M’En Fish) https://www.side-line.com/v-a-anthologies-3-album-je-men-fish/ Sun, 26 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41480 Genre/Influences: Dark-Wave, Cold-Wave, Electro, Minimal-Electro. Format: Vinyl. Background/Info: This is the third “Anthologies”-compilation released by...]]>

Genre/Influences: Dark-Wave, Cold-Wave, Electro, Minimal-Electro.

Format: Vinyl.

Background/Info: This is the third “Anthologies”-compilation released by Brussels (Belgium) based label Je M’n Fish. Nine formations have been selected.

Artists: Dirk Da Davo, Your Life On Hold, The Breath Of Life, This Vale Of Tears, NU:N, Implant, Psy’Aviah, The Neon Judgement, Mirland.

Content: Seven Belgian bands plus one from Portugal and another one from Denmark have been featured. The compilation is mainly featuring ‘familiar’ artists from the Brussels label while the music genres they’re dealing with are mainly driven by Dark/Cold-Wave influences but still by Electronic and Minimal-Electronic elements.

+ + + : I truly respect and support this small Belgian label which is mainly releasing vinyl productions. This compilation reveals a diversified tracklist mixing familiar artists together with a legendary name like The Neon Judgement. I like the “Early Tapes Version – Remastered” of Neon Judgement’s great “Sister Sue” but I also recommend  Dirk Da Davo and his very American-sounding “King Of Fools”, the dreamy Dark-Wave “The Dark Side” by The Breath Of Life and the Minimal-Electro sound of “Wolf Among Sheep” by Mirland.

– – – : No absolute hits featured.

Conclusion: This vinyl is a perfect opportunity to discover the open-minded sound canvas of Je M’En Fish.

Best bands: The Neon Judgement, Dirk Da Davo, Mirland, The Breath Of Life, NU:N.

Rate: 7½.

Label: www.facebook.com/JemenfishBE

]]> ImJudas releases 2 new EPs on the post-punk label Spleen+ https://www.side-line.com/imjudas-releases-2-new-eps-on-the-post-punk-label-spleen/ Fri, 24 Feb 2023 16:23:32 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=41529 As we reported last month, Alfa Matrix has launched the sublabel Spleen+, which is created...]]>

As we reported last month, Alfa Matrix has launched the sublabel Spleen+, which is created to accommodate more post-punk/minimal synth related releases. We already talked about the Belgian post-punk act The Ultimate Dreamers, who launched their label debut with the “Polarized EP”, and now we will present you the newest EPs from the Italian new wave act ImJudas.

ImJudas presents us 2 new EPs in one go, “So Untrue” and “People Of The Blame”, each featuring these songs as an exclusive edit, remix, or even demo versions.

The rock-wave ballad “So Untrue” is for instance completely remixed by Phil of Belgium’s cult ethereal darkwave band The Breath Of Life while the German electro pop act Elektrostaub turned the title track into a more future pop club tainted track. You also get to hear the 2016 demo version of “So Untrue” and “Outcast”.

On “People Of The Blame” Madil Hardis offers a dark ethereal version of “People Of The Blame”, while the Swedish duo Octolab turns it into an upbeat mix featuring female backings by singer Arielle Andersson. Neikka RPM from their side give a break beat dimension to “Ritual”. And also on this second EP we find two demo versions from 2016, the title track “People Of The Blame” and “Tulsa”.

You can check the rest of the back catalogue of ImJudas right below.

And here are the official videos for “Ritual” and “People Of The Blame (canned anger)”

]]> Psy’Aviah – Bittersweet (Album – Alfa Matrix) https://www.side-line.com/psyaviah-bittersweet-album-alfa-matrix/ Fri, 20 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=36864 Genre/Influences:  Electro-Pop, Dance-Pop, Indie-Electro-Pop. Format: Digital, 2CD. Background/Info: “Bittersweet” is the final part of a...]]>

Genre/Influences:  Electro-Pop, Dance-Pop, Indie-Electro-Pop.

Format: Digital, 2CD.

Background/Info: “Bittersweet” is the final part of a trilogy which started with the album “Lightflare” (2018) followed by “Soul Searching” (2019). But the work is also meant to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the Belgian project. There’s a bonus disc featuring fifteen surprising songs while the digital version  reveals fourteen extra tracks.

Content: The working formula of Psy’Aviah hasn’t really changed. Yves Schelpe composes the music while working with an impressive list of guest singers. The opening piece again features cavernous, spoken vocals by Dutch psychiatrist Dirk De Wachter. It’s a dark, dreamy intro followed by twelve, mainly, danceable cuts. The songs are meticulously elaborated and mainly Dance-driven, sometimes reminding me of the magic of Delerium. Olivya Nicole, Mari Kattman, Saydi Driggers, Lumi, Huong Su, Maysa, Marieke Lightband, Tina Forlorn, Eli Rho (2 songs), Rebecca Schneider and Addie Nicole contributed guest vocals while there also guest artists featured playing violin and cello. Notice by the way the tracklist features 2 ‘older’ reworked songs.

The bonus disc features Psy’Aviah songs taken from the wide discography of the band which have been all reworked -and in a way covered by an impressive list of artists. Madil Hardis, The Breath Of Life, Clairval, Your Life On Hold, IC434 (2 songs), Digital Factor, Aesthetische, KC Woong, Implant and Leather Strip contributed to this celebration while you’ll also hear collaborative tracks with Implant, Cat Hall and Bow Ever Down.

The digital format reveals extra songs featuring 808 Dot.Pop, Impulse Control Disorder, Fakzillity, Llumen, Miseram Mortem, Designer Violence, Hartung & Schleinitz, Y-Luk-O, Cosmic Armchair, Huilende Wolf, The Breath Of Life and Leather Strip plus 2 collaborative cuts together with Leather Strip and Implant.

+ + + : The main strength of “Bitter Sweet” is its ‘easy listening’ format. Psy’Aviah is nearly impossible to label -although hardly driven by a very personal approach of Dance music, but simply following its path. The project has seriously evolved throughout the years and the sound often appears a true challenge. The composition is well-crafted, styled, sensual for the slow rhythms and here again reveals an interesting and diversified list of talented singers. “Can we Make It Rhyme ” featuring Mari Kattman is a great piece of music reminding me a bit of Delerium. And I also want to mention “Tired” which is an older song that has been reworked and features passionate vocals by Addie Nicole (Hallocene).

I also have to salute the original concept of the bonus disc (and bonus songs for the digital edit) where the artists totally reworked the older Psy’Aviah songs while putting their own voice on it. The result is diversified but I especially recommend both cuts by IC434 and the one by Your Life On Hold.

– – – : The main strength of Psy’Aviah also appears to be its biggest weakness; hard to label and sometimes dangerously moving to the edge of pure ‘commercial’ Dance music. That’s why I often wonder if this is the right scene and label for this project? The bonus songs are a pretty cool commemoration although I’m missing Emélie Nicolaï who was the singer of the band during the first decade.

Conclusion: Psy’Aviah remains a true challenge although we can’t be unmoved by the creativity, ideas, concept and sound intelligence of this artist.

Best songs: “Can we Make It Rhyme”, “Tired – Rediscovered”, “Cold Summer Nights”, “The Wildness In Me” + “Broken Child” (IC 434), “Anger Management” (IC 434), “Our Common End” (Your Life On Hold), “The Worst In Me” (Leather Strip), “Wild Ride” (Llumen).

Rate: 8.

Artist: www.psyaviah.com / www.facebook.com/psyaviah

Label: www.alfa-matrix.com / www.facebook.com/Alfa.Matrix

]]> Psy’Aviah returns with 2CD album ‘Bittersweet’ including an extra 3rd volume https://www.side-line.com/psyaviah-returns-with-2cd-album-bittersweet-including-an-extra-3rd-volume/ Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:10:47 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=35367 (Photo by GNY) Out on April 1st – but already available in pre-order via the...]]>
Psy’Aviah returns with 2CD album 'Bittersweet' including an extra 3rd volume

(Photo by GNY) Out on April 1st – but already available in pre-order via the Alfa Matrix label’s webshop – is the all new album from the Belgian dark trip electro pop act Psy’Aviah. “Bittersweet” is the last album in the introspective trilogy that started with the previous 2 albums “Lightflare” and “Soul Searching”.

The first disc of this 2CD set offers 13 new songs featuring several collaborators including Irina Markevich on violin and Polina Faustova on cello, and the vocalists Addie Nicole, Mari Kattman, Marieke Lightband, Saydi Drigger, Huong Su, Lumí, Tina Forlorn, Eli Rho,  Rebecca Schneider or yet the famous Belgian professor Dr. Dirk De Wachter. Next to the new songs the first disc also offers revamped versions of the classic Psy’Aviah songs “Tired” and the mega hit “OK”.

To celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary, this first edition of the album comes as a limited double-CD digipak holding the exclusive 15-track CD “Rediscovered (20th Anniversary)” plus a download link to 14 extra additional songs. These 29 tracks (!!) hold cover version of Psy’Aviah tracks by a long list of other bands including The Breath Of Life, Implant, Aesthetische, 808.DOT.POP, Leaether Strip, Your Life On Hold, Digital Factor, IC 434, Llumen, Madil Hardis and many more.

This is not the end product, just a render.

The 2CD (and the additional 12 download tracks) can be pre-ordered via the Alfa Matrix webstore, while you can get the full 42 tracks in one bundle right here from Bandcamp.

Below you can already listen to 4 tracks.

]]> Implant – Cognitive Dissonance (Album – Alfa Matrix) https://www.side-line.com/implant-cognitive-dissonance-album-alfa-matrix/ Thu, 08 Jul 2021 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=31414 Genre/Influences: Industrial-Pop, Electro, Experimental. Format: Digital, 2CD. Background/Info: Belgian Implant duo is back on track,...]]>

Genre/Influences: Industrial-Pop, Electro, Experimental.

Format: Digital, 2CD.

Background/Info: Belgian Implant duo is back on track, unleashing their eleventh album in history. Len Lemaire and Jan D’Hooghe have been inspired by the ongoing pandemic and the impact on humans. It resulted in a double disc featuring numerous remixes on the second disc. Noemi Aurora (Helalyn Flowers) contributed to some songs of the album.

Content: Implant already revealed a different approach in sound on the previous –and great, album “Oxynoxe-X” while the last year released EP “Phantom Pain” confirmed this evolution although getting more into Electro-Pop fields. It’s quite significant for this new opus, which is bringing elements such as Minimal-Electro and a kind of Industrial-Pop together. The ‘Trance’ roots of the band are far away, but still present on a few cuts. The main evolution of the sound is due to the use of analogue gear, which becomes pretty explicit at a few shorter, instrumental pieces. Noemi Aurora is singing on 3 songs, creating a weird, but cool match with the growls of Len Lemaire.

The work features remixes by Suicide Commando, Signal Aout 42, Aiboforcen, Q’Pnz, 808 Dot.Pop, Növö, Armageddon Dildos, AD:Key, Neuroactive and Helalyn Flowers. The second disc also features a few extra songs by Implant. Last, but not least The Breath Of Life simply covered one of the songs instead of making a remix.

+ + + : I truly respect the global evolution in sound Implant has made during the past years. It still sounds Implant-like, but the Belgians seem to have found new sonic paths to explore. The analogue sound treatments create this minimalism, but also very original sequences emerging at the shorter ‘intermezzo’ cuts. Noemi Aurora remains to me one of the most talented singers in this scene and she adds a graceful-, sensual- and artistic touch on top of the songs. “Phantom Pain” remains a cool track, but she also sings on “The Last Record”, which clearly appears to be a potential hit –and has been remixed by several artists. One of my favorite songs however is “The Room” for its extra robotic dimension plus deep, resonating bass line and “Nutshell” for its minimalism. The opening song “I Don’t Trust The Machine” is another attention grabber with a strong dance/club appeal and driven by an amazing lead.

The list of remixers is also a noticeable aspect of the album. I here want to mention the work by Suicide Commando and Trance-driven remix by the Belgian producer Q’Pnz. The Breath Of Life did a great job covering “The Last Record”; this is a beautiful and sensitive version. Last, but not least Implant put 2 more great pieces on this disc (cf. “Censorship Through Noise Part III” and “Lied 13”.

– – – : I regret some short, instrumental cuts from the main disc haven’t been more worked out; “Nutshell” is not only one of the best tracks, but unfortunately it’s just a kind of break. Despite the impressive list of remixers, I definitely expected a bit more.

Conclusion: Implant is now active for nearly 30 years and has already found new new horizons to explore.

Best songs: “The Room”, “I Don’t Trust The Machine”, “Nutshell”, “The Devil Made Me Do It”, “The Last Record”, + “The Last Record – Cover by The Breath Of Life”, “Run To The Lights – One Messed Up Mix by Suicide Commando”.

Rate: (8).

Artist: www.implant-music.be / www.facebook.com/Implantmusic

Label: www.alfa-matrix.com / www.facebook.com/Alfa.Matrix

]]> The Breath Of Life cover Implant and release a video clip – watch it here exclusively https://www.side-line.com/the-breath-of-life-cover-implant-and-release-a-video-clip-watch-it-here-exclusively/ Thu, 25 Mar 2021 19:26:02 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=29690 When 2 musical worlds collide and fuse, the outcome can only be explosive! This is...]]>
The Breath Of Life cover Implant and release a video clip - watch it here exclusively

When 2 musical worlds collide and fuse, the outcome can only be explosive! This is exactly what happened when Belgian electro industrial act Implant proposed to another Belgian living legend to rework one of their new songs from the “Cognitive Dissonance” album which is out officially tomorrow via Alfa Matrix.

Cult gothic wave act The Breath Of Life went the extra mile and made an own cover version of “The Last Record”, giving it an all new dimension with Isabelle on lead vocals. Boosted by the overwhelming response triggered by this unique collaboration, The Breath Of Life now recorded a video clip for this beautiful melancholic cold wave / pop tune.

Warmly recommended!

]]> The Breath Of Life – Sparks Around Us (Album – Wool-E Discs / Manic Language Records) https://www.side-line.com/the-breath-of-life-sparks-around-us-album-wool-e-discs-manic-language-records/ Thu, 04 Mar 2021 19:30:00 +0000 https://www.side-line.com/?p=29297 Genre/Influences: Gothic, Post-Punk, Dark-Wave, Dream-Pop. Format: Digital, CD. Background/Info: Three years after the brilliant album...]]>

Genre/Influences: Gothic, Post-Punk, Dark-Wave, Dream-Pop.

Format: Digital, CD.

Background/Info: Three years after the brilliant album “Under The Falling Stars” (2017) Belgian gothic proud The Breath Of Life strikes back with this new opus. This must be the band’s tenth studio album since 1985. Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Didier Czepczyk (bass guitar), Giovanni Bortolin (keys and violin) and Philippe Mauroy (guitar, drums & loops programming) bring us eleven new songs.

Content: I can’t say this album sounds like one of the band’s most versatile ones, but there clearly is a mix between different 80s related influences emerging at the surface. The songs are moving in the typical Dark-Wave and Post-Punk vein, but there also is a more explicit and fragile aspect, which comes closer to Dream-Pop. Most of the songs are driven by a melancholic sound, which has something dreamy-minded while the guitar playing has this elevating effect. Isabelle Dekeyser has this impact of a Goddess by her now fragile and then mature and passionate timbre of voice.

+ + + : The Breath Of Life is one of these bands, which no longer has anything to prove. They simply compose the music they like and each album again they’re pleasing their fans. The main strength of this work comes through in the sensitive and melancholic approach of the song writing. The guitar accentuates the emotional side on songs like “She’s Not Real” and “Her Dream Cloud”, but also shows pretty refined playing on “In Her Darkness” –this song being the absolute highlight from the album. I get the feeling this album is a bit more into Dream-Pop influences, which here and then again remind me of The Cocteau Twins, but this band first of all remains a formation with a very own sound identity.

– – – : I think this album can’t compete with its predecessor although it’s an accomplished and fascinating work. I’m just missing a few more songs with some climax!

Conclusion: The Breath Of Life each time again sounds a bit different from their previous full length although you always recognize little details making the essence of their sound.

Best songs: “In Her Darkness”, “Her Dream Cloud”, “She’s Not Real”, “The Girl In A Box”, “She Wore A Crown”.

Rate: (8).

Artist: www.the-breath-of-life.com /

www.facebook.com/TBOL.official

Label: www.wool-e-discs.be / www.facebook.com/woolediscs

]]> V/A W-Fest (DCD Album – Wool-E-Discs) https://www.side-line.com/v-a-w-fest-dcd-album-wool-e-discs/ Mon, 19 Nov 2018 20:30:27 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=16958 Genre/Influences: New-wave, EBM, minimal-electro, dark-electro, gothic. Background/Info: This compilation featuring 26 bands is a way...]]>

Genre/Influences: New-wave, EBM, minimal-electro, dark-electro, gothic.

Background/Info: This compilation featuring 26 bands is a way to remember the great W-Fest (festival) that took in place this Summer in Belgium. The festival was spread over 4 days, 3 scenes and featured an impressive number of bands. The organization invited some legendary 80s artists next to contemporary groups.

Artists: Parade Ground, A Split Second, Simi Nah, Dive, Suicide Commando, TB Frank & Baustein, Vine La Fête, A Slice Of Life, Flesh & Fell, Doganov, Red Zebra, The Breath Of Life ao.

Content: The first CD is clearly devoted to different kinds of electronic underground music. Parade Ground and A Split second will Takes us back in time with some legendary 80s songs while the electro-pop & minimalism of other bands such as Simi Nah, Enzo Kreft, Vive La Fête reveal contemporary 80s inspired sounds. It also is a way to rediscover some living legends such as Dive and Suicide Commando plus smaller bands such as Mildreda, Pro Patria, Herrnia.

The second disc brings us a mix of ‘old’ and contemporary gothic/new-wave. Red Zebra is a band we all know in Belgium, and which remains one of our best 80s ambassadors. A Slice Of Life could be the next big thing from Belgium. Here again you’ll discover very diversified groups moving from Ground Nero to Flesh & Fell, from Doganoc to The Breath Of Life etc.

+ + + : This is a fully enjoyable compilation, bringing different genres and especially music decades together. It also is a way to realize Belgium has a real great underground scene.

– – – : I just regret there aren’t more ‘exclusive’ tracks featured on the album, but it remains first of all a way to promote a great festival, already announced for 2019!

Conclusion: After the terrible lost of the Eurorock festival, Belgium moves on with a new ‘big fest’: W-Fest.

Best bands: A Split second, Enzo Kreft, Herrnia, Vive La Fête, A Slice Of Life, Flesh & Fell, red Zebra, Doganov, The Breath Of Life.

Rate: (8).

Label: www.wool–e–shop.be / www.facebook.com/woolediscs

 

]]> Kezdown – Escape Lane (CD Album – Wool-E-Discs) https://www.side-line.com/kezdown-escape-lane-cd-album-wool-e-discs/ Sun, 18 Nov 2018 19:30:26 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=16949 Genre/Influences: Goth-rock, cold-wave. Background/Info: Kezdown is a new Belgian formation featuring Didier Czepczyk (known from...]]>

Genre/Influences: Goth-rock, cold-wave.

Background/Info: Kezdown is a new Belgian formation featuring Didier Czepczyk (known from his involvement with The Breath Of Life), Mathieu Rousselet and Gaston Hollands.

Content: Kezdown is clearly inspired by the dark sonic hours from the 80s. I can’t compare them with bands from that decade, but you immediately will notice their dark approach in the way they play the guitar, the atmosphere hanging over the songs and the Czepczyk grave timbre of voice. The songs have been accomplished with electronic arrangements.

+ + + : If you like the dark and depressed 80s productions, Kezdown is definitely a band that might interest you. They bring the 80s spirit alive with some grace. It also is an element you’ll find back in the pictures from the artwork revealing desolate industrial landscapes. Sound-wise there’s a noticeable progression in the tracklist. The last part reveals the best cuts and I especially want to tip “The Sweetest Answer” and “Murder In Shirt”.

– – – : I’m definitely convinced this band can do much better than what they’ve shown on this album. The global sound production might be somewhat naughtier. I like the dark touch hanging over the work, but it sounds a bit sweet and I’m therefore missing a real highlight.

Conclusion: “Escape Lane” is an easy listening and entertaining dark release bringing the 80s back alive although it’s not immediately what I would call a groundbreaking opus. This is an interesting debut, but I’m sure the best is yet to come for Kezdown.

Best songs: “The Sweetest Answer”, “Killing Teddy Bear”, “Murder In Shirt”.

Rate: (7).

Artist: www.kezdown.com / www.facebook.com/Kezdownmusic

Label: www.wool–e–shop.be / www.facebook.com/woolediscs

]]> V/A Statistics Mean Nothing When You’re On The Wrong Label (CD Album – Wool-E-Discs) https://www.side-line.com/v-a-statistics-mean-nothing-when-youre-on-the-wrong-label-cd-album-wool-e-discs/ Thu, 02 Aug 2018 19:30:08 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=15794 Genre/Influences: Electro-pop, electro-ambient, cinematographic, experimental, minimal-electronics, gothic, EBM. Background/Info: This album is a perfect opportunity...]]>

Genre/Influences: Electro-pop, electro-ambient, cinematographic, experimental, minimal-electronics, gothic, EBM.

Background/Info: This album is a perfect opportunity to get more familiar with the Belgian label Wool-E-Discs featuring this label sampler with a real interesting title to analyze… The Belgian label is a rather eclectic company interested in talented (mainly) Belgian formations. The album features 18 bands. The main songs are taken from previously released material while a few ones will be released on upcoming productions.

Artists: Simi Nah, Factice Factory, Story Off, True Zebra, LiquidTrauma, The Breath Of Life, Lizard Smile, Der Klinke, Galactic Underground ft. Erik Wollo, Starseeds, BySenSeS, Club Mayz ao.

Content: This is the perfect compilation to discover the already impressive roster of Wool-E-Discs. This label which set up an interesting series about Belgian ambient music (cf. Belgian NeuMusik) reveals several artists from that series, but still totally different artists dealing with alluring electro-pop, dark-like and minimal electronics, gothic and experimental music.

+ + + : This sampler is a must have to realize the growing impact of Wool-E-Discs, but still the great music taste of the label owner Dimitri Idunno. He made me discover fascinating ambient projects such as BySEnSeS and Galactic Underground while other more familiar names such as Simi Nah and The Breath Of Life are great names from the electro-pop and gothic scene. But this is also an opportunity getting back to darker electro formats such as LiquidTrauma. I also have to mention Der Klinke, True Zebra and the French-Swiss band Factice Factory, which all are more gothic minded. I’m also looking forward to the album of electro-pop formation Starseeds.

– – – : The only regret about this album is the absence of Daniel B. (Prothèse) and Nothing But Noise (another Daniel B. project together with early Front 242 member Dirk Bergen).

Conclusion: In times where so many labels have disappeared a few ones such as Wool-E-Discs still have the motivation and ambition to move on. And the least I can say is that this a label, which definitely deserves more (international) recognition.

Best bands: Simi Nah, Factice Factory, LiquidTrauma, The Breath Of Life, Galactic Underground ft. Erik Wollo, Starseeds, BySenSeS, Der Klinke, True Zebra, Story Off.

Rate: (8).

Label: www.wool–e–shop.be / www.facebook.com/woolediscs

 

]]> Sin.Sin – Nobody’s Heroin (CD Album – Alfa Matrix) https://www.side-line.com/sin-sin-nobodys-heroin-cd-album-alfa-matrix/ Sat, 30 Dec 2017 20:45:26 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=13500 Genre/Influences: Electro-pop, dark-pop. Background/Info: The fans of Belgian goth-rock formation Lovelorn Dolls for sure are...]]>

Genre/Influences: Electro-pop, dark-pop.

Background/Info: The fans of Belgian goth-rock formation Lovelorn Dolls for sure are familiar with the band’s front lady Kristell Lowagie. She set up her own project Sin.Sin and now has unleashed her debut opus after 2 noticeable EP’s. This album has been produced, mixed and mastered by Max from Helalyn Flowers who also did some extra programming.

Content: The album takes of with the main song of her debut-EP (cf. “Fairytronics”), which remains a great piece of evasive pop music revealing the sweet vocals of Kristell L and the cool pop style. Sin.Sin is not a typical electro-pop formation, but rather experiments with a ‘free-pop’-style which is now evasive, then raw and finally still into a kind of indie approach.  I now and then get the impression of hearing an underground version of Madonna.

The album is also featuring the “Blacklist”-song featuring Noemi Aurora (Helalyn flowers), which was the title song of the second Sin.Sin EP. The final track is a folk and intimate remix by The Breath Of Life.

+ + + : There’re a few great cuts featured here and I especially refer to the already familiar “These Pretty Things”, which has something magical because of its great chorus. I also enjoyed the rawer and unpolished style, which even sounds a bit into industrial-pop while accomplished with cool effects. I’m also pleased with the more indie-pop sounding “I Am So In Love” and “Mother” for the amazing vocals performance. I think the production skills of Helalyn Flowers mastermind have been quite important to get the final sound of this work.

– – – : There’re some great cuts featured, but still a few cuts with less substance. I can’t get away from the feeling that Kristell L still has to find her path in the electro-pop universe while she now feels a bit like an orphan who has lost her dear parents (aka her main band Lovelorn Dolls).

Conclusion: “Nobody’s Heroin” is moving from cool and noticeable cuts towards a few songs without real substance or sound identity.

Best songs: “These Pretty Things”, “Mother”, “Dress Machine”, “I Am So In Love”.

Rate: (7).

Band: www.facebook.com/sin.sin.official

Label: www.alfa–matrix.com / www.facebook.com/Alfa.Matrix

]]> Debut album electro pop act SIN.SIN out now – listen to the complete album! https://www.side-line.com/electro-pop-act-sin-sin-to-release-debut-album-nobodys-heroine-in-october-listen-to-the-first-2-tracks/ Mon, 30 Oct 2017 19:30:31 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=12294 The female fronted electro pop act SIN.SIN has finally released its debut album! The release...]]>

Electro pop act SIN.SIN to release debut album 'Nobody’s Heroine' in October - listen to the first 2 tracks

The female fronted electro pop act SIN.SIN has finally released its debut album! The release is one which many people have been looking out for after the extremely well received singless “Fairytronics” and “Black List”. Especially the latter did ping a lot of interest.

The debut album is titled “Nobody’s Heroine” and has been released now. You can listen to the entire album on Bandcamp or via the band’s label webstore where you can order the CD version.

Included on the album are collaborations with the Belgian cult act The Breath Of Life (who made a folk remake of “Moving Sands”) and a duet with Helalyn Flowers’ vocalist n0emi Aurora on the siren noir song “Blacklist”.

SIN.SIN is the project by Kristell L., known for her work as the lead singer of the goth rock / industrial metal band Lovelorn Dolls. The album was produced and mixed by producer Maxx of Helalyn Flowers. Highly recommended!

]]> The Breath Of Life – Under The Falling Stars (CD Album – Magic Language Records/Wool-E Discs) https://www.side-line.com/the-breath-of-life-under-the-falling-stars-cd-album-magic-language-recordswool-e-discs/ Tue, 01 Aug 2017 19:30:11 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=11827 Genre/Influences: Gothic, goth-rock. Background/Info: Set up in 1985, The Breath Of Life became one of...]]>

Genre/Influences: Gothic, goth-rock.

Background/Info: Set up in 1985, The Breath Of Life became one of the most important gothic formations in Belgian’s history. And yet I sometimes get the impression they got more recognition abroad than in their own country. The band now consists of Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Didier Czepczyk (bass guitar), Giovanni Bortolin (Keys and violin) and Philippe Mauroy (guitar & drums programming). The main point about the line-up is that Philippe Mauroy rejoined the band after an absence of several years. “Under The Falling Stars” also is the band’s first album in five years and the first one released together with Belgian label Wool-E Discs.

Content: I’m not saying that The Breath Of Life reinvented its own sound, but every single new work sounds a bit different, like a band holding on their basics, but each time again trying to add a few new elements and details. “Under The Falling Stars” became a passionate work carried by impressive guitar playing, low buzzing and resonating bass play, the somewhat folk and magic-like violin passages and of course the charismatic vocals of Isabelle.

The sound once more will get you back in 80s reminiscences. Cocteau Twins for sure remains a band you’ll possibly have in mind, but This Breath Of Life also have this little touch of magic mixing different elements into its very own sound DNA.

+ + + : The main strength of this work is the experience and genius of the musicians. They all exceed in their own discipline resulting in a sweet harmony between all instruments. The songs are carried by the guitar and get darker by the low bass guitar whiles the vocals and especially the violin create some enchantment. I just forget the keyboards accentuating the melodic aspect of several songs.

“Under The Falling Stars” is an accomplished piece of work. There’s a great progression running throughout the songwriting while you can feel a true passion emerging at the surface. Sometimes a bit bombastic, but always delicate this album is an absolute masterpiece.

– – – : When you’re listening to a masterpiece it’s simply impossible to find major points to improve. Both debut songs are maybe a little less hesitant –or simply teasers, compared to the rest of the tracklist.

Conclusion: It’s simply fantastic when a band after years of involvement has the passion and creativity to release one of their best productions to date. And according to my humble opinion, “Under The Falling Stars” maybe is their best work in history and for sure one of the best gothic album of the year!

Best songs: “Until The Day”, “A New Reality”, “From The Storms”, “Hide”, “The Right Place”.

Rate: (9).

Band: www.the–breath–of–life.com / www.facebook.com/TBOL.official

Label: www.wool–e–shop.be / www.facebook.com/woolediscs

]]> Wool-E tapes continues exclusive Music For Muted TV series curated by Daniel B. (Front 242) https://www.side-line.com/wool-e-tapes-continues-exclusive-music-for-muted-tv-series-curated-by-daniel-b-front-242/ Wed, 12 Apr 2017 16:30:20 +0000 http://www.side-line.com/?p=10660 For Record Store Day on 22 April the Wool-E tapes shop (Emiel Lossystraat 17, 9040...]]>

Wool-E tapes continues exclusive Music For Muted TV series curated by Daniel B. (Front 242)

For Record Store Day on 22 April the Wool-E tapes shop (Emiel Lossystraat 17, 9040 Gent) will release the 4th instalment of the exclusive Music For Muted TV series curated by Daniel B. of Front 242.

4 years after part one, the 10″ vinyl “MFMTV1”, part four will once again be a Record Store Day release, partly exclusively available at Wool-E Shop.For this special release Daniel B. reworked 4 songs from the new upcoming Nothing But Noise cd (20 May, Wool-E Discs) under his pseudonym Prothese. 160 Pieces were made from this tape, 60 distributed by the band to members of the Nothing But Noise mailing list, 100 will be set for sale to the public (50 online, 50 exclusively at Wool-E Shop) in four different colours on 22 April.

The 50 online tapes are clear prison tapes with yellow hubs, the 50 Wool-E Shop tapes are green, red and orange and will be distributed at random to the customers. There’s only one catch: both online and in the shop only one tape per customer and no putting on the side. The sales of both online and shop stock starts at noon when the shop doors open.

The shop will be open from 12:00 till 19:00 with the following activities taking place for this occasion:

  • 14:00 Onsturicheit (one man psychedelic band, releasegig of the second Wool-E tape)
  • 15:30 The Arch (legendary postpunk/EBM/goth band from Breendonk, putting the spotlight on their latest cd “Fates” released last year)
  • 17:00 The Breath Of Life (even more legendary Walloon goth band with a heavenly voiced singer, who will present their new upcoming cd “Under The Falling Stars”, a coproduction with Wool-E Discs.
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