Gothtober - Maduro : "Pretty Cages"

 

The opening track does have some dense fuzzed out synths that work on an angular groove while the monotone spoken vocals, try to fall in the gap. The success of the vocals in this firs track relies on how the effects are being used. The dance floor drive instrumental, are accented by samples. The first track like this holds it's momentum, I am not sure that could be said if it was an entire album of that. The vocals have a more Ian Curtis like cadence on. Lyrically bleak this creates a contrast to the upbeat bounce of the grooves. 

Despite the samples of erotic moans, drifting under the synths, there is something too robotic to feel sexual about the song, no matter how hard the beat tries to bang. Seems an odd timing to dance too. The opening synth riff of "When the Fire Stops" recalls Basement Jaxx's  "Where's Your Head At". The vocals are less anthemic than that 2001 banger, and are more of a haunted mumble. "Bound to Nothing" is driven by more of a static pulse, while the robots of future past narrate the proceedings. There are less dynamics to this song. "Nuclear Attack" sounds like it should be the soundtrack for a indie horror movie trying to be retro. "Far Away" sounds like the music was composed and given to some one else to record vocals on it, but that person, who was not a great singer to begin with, did not know quite what to do with it. The result is somewhat awkward.  

While the chorus of "Mystery Guest" works better than the bulk of the songs so far, the verses feel like someone decided to try to sing over  early 80s video game  music.  "Take Pills" is a little more interesting in how the sounds are arranged. The song flows better, though the beat is nothing new. I will give this album a 7.5, there are moments and fans of electronic music looking for an retro minded oddity like this will find plenty to embrace.