Lebanon Hanover : "Asylum Lullabies"

This duo formed back in 2010, making them one of the more convincing and enduring bands from the post-punk revival of the new millennium. This is their 7th full-length. The opening track is darker and denser, with things falling back into their more expected synth-driven ambiance on the second song. There is a dreamier, almost shoe-gazing haze cast over "Torture Rack". The programmed drum gives the song more of a drone, along with the monotone moan of  Larissa Iceglass, who sounds like she is numb to the pain of being chained to the torture rack. 

When bassist William Maybelline takes to the microphone, he is a little pitchy. Both singers moan when they sing, but  he struggles on "Frosty Life." It almost makes it hard for me to get invested in the song. Iceglass' vocal approach works better in this regard; both have plenty of reverb to hide within, which coats the music, much like a smoke machine envelops the stages they play on. There is a stiff, cold wave groove to "Waiting List" that works well considering the mood they are known for. Some '80s synth hits chime in for personality purposes. 

William's voice fares better on "My Love"; his approach feels more like a less whispered Psychic TV. Played at high volumes, it would fit into most goth nite playlists. The mournful tone of "I'm Doing This For You" works well as it builds into a creepy intensity. This makes it the album's best song. The album closes with "Parrots." Perhaps referring to the bird on the cover. This one carries a more minimalist pulse and droning vocal chant. The beat builds midway into the song, giving a more dynamic flavor. I will go ahead and give this a 9, and see how it grows on me, they are certainly at the top of the goth scene. 

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