Fledgling UK Industrial Act pull out all the stops
Having not heard of Esoterica before hearing this CD I didn't quite know what to expect from the description of a "dark and brooding record" and was rather wary. No need however as 'The Fool' is a thoroughly enjoyable debut from the Warlingham based quartet.
The music of 'The Fool' is an enjoyable Industrial Rock mix. Cutting and distorted guitars mix with sharp drumbeats to form a very enjoyable style that, whilst referencing other acts of a similar nature are unique enough to prove worth listening to. Whilst there is variety in the style of the songs they all fall into the 4 minute verse-chorus-verse format and some more atypical tracks would have livened up the mix nicely.
Each track is varied enough whilst still working within the band's own formula to make the album both consistent but constantly engaging as well. The chorus from 'Samples' uses a simple repeated style of delivery mixed with incisive guitars to form a catchy and thoroughly enjoyable mix whilst another highlight of the album is the melancholy 'Life Is Lonely'. As expected from an act of this nature the lyrics are typically of a darker and more introspective nature ranging from the drug ballad 'Valium' to the Religion-baiting 'Salvation'.
The album is not without its downers however. At 40 minutes you are left wanting more, and not in a good way; this album leaves you hungry for more and the lack of a proper climactic track (in place of the so-so ballad 'Close Your Eyes') really gives the impression of an interesting EP than a fully rounded record. The vocals of singer Tobias can occasionally grate on the nerves with their whiny tones and more variety in singing styles perhaps coupled with a stronger presence of backing vocals would have rounded out the songs adequately. Additionally, whilst the lyrics can't be expected to be full of happiness and joy from a band of this nature, the subjects of despair and hatred of organized religion are a tired and overused source of inspiration these days and some more original topics would really be in order for future releases.
Overall then this is a very enjoyable debut from Esoterica and I would recommend it heartily to anyone with even a mild interest in Industrial Rock. However if Esoterica want to capitalise on the success they clearly deserve from providing such a strong record they need to concentrate on one area-variety.