This latest and fourth album is yet another
progression in the ever evolving sound of Ladytron, and is easily
their best work to date. With a more friendly and accessible sound,
Velocifero may help to keep the band from the slowdive into niche.
The album also boasts production assistance from Alessandro Cortini
(Nine Inch Nails), which may help shed some light on the rougher
feel of this album.
If you haven’t yet had an introduction
to the Ladytron phenomenon, you won’t necessarily go wrong
starting with the newest album. But to truly appreciate the versatility
of the band’s work, starting at the beginning with 2001’s
604, and then working your way through the equally worthy Light
& Magic and Witching Hour will create the more satisfying
experience.
Those who were turned off by the earlier
soft-around-the-edges approach might just find themselves warming
to the sounds of the aptly titled Velocifero (“bringer of
speed”), which backs it’s pop credibility with an
omnipresent rock aesthetic. This effort sees the band radiating
more energy and attitude that on previous future-hip ventures,
although the sterile beats and arid vocals are still there to
give that spacey, ethereal quality.
“Predict The Day” sounds to
have taken it’s inspiration from Frida’s (of ABBA
fame) “I Know There’s Something Going On”. At
first glance, “Kletva”, which is a cover from an older
Bulgarian children’s movie, seems to faithfully return to
a familiar Ladytron sound, but tosses a welcome curveball toward
the end. Both “Kletva” and “Black Car”
are sung in Bulgarian. “Ghosts”, the first single
taken from the album, has an even pulse and unexpected flourishes
that’s sure to be a hit. However, it’s the coldly
repetitive “Runaway” that stands out from the pack
and is sure to be Velocifero’s dark horse.
The album isn’t due to release until
June, but you can stream it right now on Ladytron’s Myspace.
It will only be available to listen for a short time, so head
over there and test the waters before placing your pre-orders.
(Angie Pardue)
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