published: 3 /
4 /
2007
Label:
Gung Ho Records
Format: CD
Sometimes spellbinding techno synth pop from reformed Reykjavík-based group and one time 4AD signings Gus Gus
Review
You’re toying with us, aren’t you, Gus Gus? One minute playing temptress with your intoxicating techno sleekness. And the next giving us the cold shoulder by palming us off with clunking filler that sounds like it was composed by a bunch of kitchen appliances after flicking through a copy of 'Dance Music For Dummies'.
At its come-hither best, 'Forever' swathes itself in Inner City’s 1989 populist techno opus 'Paradise', corralling its glistening synths and sinuous melodies, adding splashes of acid and skeins of trance, then topping the result with a vocal so supremely assured it would come as no surprise to discover enigmatic singer Earth presides over multi-national conglomerate mergers as a sideline.
Within one listen, spellbinding floorfillers such as 'You’ll Never Change', 'Hold You' and 'Moss' will have taken your ears prisoner with the ease of Beyonce Knowles shrugging into a chinchilla coat [memo to PETA: Pennyblackmusic does not condone the use of fur].
However, just like a demotivated lapdancer, the saucily named 'Lust' and 'Porn' promise everything and deliver next to nothing. With their cantering tempo and noodling non-melodies they’ll leave you staring vacantly at the album cover wondering why the band chose the nuclear green and bilious yellow shades normally found on the packaging of extra-strength hangover remedies. And coming out none the wiser. 'Demo 54' and, basically, any track ungraced with Earth’s vocals could also try harder.
But when it’s good it’s so very, very good it’s always worth slamming it on full volume before a night out, taking a hit of whatever gets you going and partying like it’s 1989. Gus Gus Forever? Well, until chucking out time at least.
Track Listing:-
1
Degeneration
2
You'll Never Change
3
Hold You
4
Need In Me
5
Lust
6
Forever
7
If You Don't Jump (You're English)
8
Sweet Smoke
9
Porn
10
Demo 54
11
Moss
12
Mallflowers