Soccer96 - Demons Are Real
Electro duo Soccer96's new album Demons Are Real provides a little bit of what electronica is supposed to be and a whole lot more of what they think it should be. This is in no way a bad thing; instead, the band eschew sequencers and laptops and bring the genre back to basics - or as basic as electronica really can be. Classic analogue synths are the method of choice, which add a slightly traditional sense to the sound - an odd choice of phrase, admittedly, but Soccer96 are a band adamant on doing things their own way. Fortunately, their way is a good way.
Opening track California provides a perfect introduction to the band's distinct sound. Energetic and pulsing, it's the kind of tune that you just know you want to hear live, if only so the urge to dance can be fulfilled without looking like an idiot alone in your room (instead, you'll get to look like an idiot in public!). The repetition works, providing a solid beat and toe-tapping jazzy finish.
SuperWarrior is the perfect follow up choice - the phrase going from strength to strength comes to mind, as SuperWarrior manages to build on the already gained momentum using sweeps of synth and choral vocals to create an all consuming tidal wave of sound.
While there aren't any particular weak points, Adaptatrap doesn't quite gel as well as the others, leaving the cohesive feel of the album and seeming more like a last minute addition. Aside from that, however, it's a strong album and the songs all manage to hold their own and complement each other well.
Soccer96's debut album is an engaging and frenzied debut, leaving the listener with no doubt that they are a band to see live.