Tension Control – Freiheit (Digital/CD Album – Tension Control)
Hamburg, Germany–based Michael Schrader remains very active with his EBM project Tension Control. “Freiheit”, released at the end of 2025, is already his fifth full-length album.
The 13 tracks deliver Tension Control’s familiar recipe: old-school EBM that once again evokes memories of legendary bands such as DAF, Die Krupps, and others. Compared to previous releases, however, “Freiheit” sounds somewhat calmer and more minimalist. Some of the songs could have benefited from more elaborate arrangements. It is therefore no coincidence that the tracks with an extra touch—such as the phenomenal closing track—stand out as highlights. Schrader continues to sing primarily in his native language, but this time he also performs a few songs in English.
In my opinion, Tension Control remains a fantastic EBM project; however, “Freiheit” is not quite my favorite album in the discography. (Rating:7).
Listen to “Der Rhythmussmann”:
https://tensioncontrol.bandcamp.com/track/der-rhythmussmann
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