seven

in comparison with other synthpop compilation, this "a diferent drum" effort proves once again that this american label is a major force on the synth-pop scene, managing to collect a number of diverse and unique bands under one roof.

the quality of this release can only be realized comparing it with other compilations and multitude of weak synthpop bands out there. the compilation tracks are divided between two disks based on style of the band - from heavier and denser bands on "heavy cycle" to simpler and softer sound of "gentle cycle". the range of material covers all flavors of synthpop and becomes the best sampler for the genre.

exclusive mixes by veterans of synthpop are excellent, setting the standard that the rest of the disk could be judged by. de/vision (presented by 4! tracks), alphaville, neuroactive, the nine, beborn beton and fictional are some of the big names that will catch attention of anyone close to the scene.

some of the highlights include paradox with harder sound and strong female vocals that steps out of the usual synthpop format. "danger is the shame" by iris is one of the best dancefloor-packers on the disk with incredibly catchy chorus, quite charming vocals and nice layered beats and synths. yet another track with almost trance-like intensity is monolith's "arms" that is amazingly powerful and somewhat heavy. it does remind me of some of the dubok material with its similar "fluid" sound, the softer vocals and chorus, however, destroy the illusion. synerxion echoes its darker feelings with almost epic "icicles".

the softer (no matter how strange it sounds) side of the genre is presented by surprisingly strong adolescent-teen-wonders kaboing (regardless of how alien their themes of christian synthpop are to me coupled with the fact that the band is amazingly young, I still cannot resist the charm of the girl's voice and the overall power of the music), light and melodic neuropa, graceful alphaville.

this is a powerful statement from "a different drum", the one that will convert many skeptics and will sooth harsh and scarred true synthpop fans.