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Velocifero

Ladytron

Velocifero

by Jim Fahy

Produced by Ladytron, Velocifero fully transcends the confines of electro-pop with a fresh wave of distorted soul. Mira and Helen—whose disparate vocal styles already provide considerable depth—have evolved both as musicians and songwriters, lending provocative harmonies to songs like “Runaway” and “I’m Not Scared.” Rhythmically, there are moments reminiscent of their old favorites Os Mutantes and the Birthday Party. “Black Cat” rips the album open with a buzz saw bass line and a pounding, distorted kick/snare cadence. Mira’s vocals—sung in her native Bulgarian—echo the track’s foreboding sentiment. Traces of Ennio Morricone appear on the galloping “Ghosts,” as Helen repeats the unapologetic chorus, “There’s a ghost in me who wants to say I’m sorry. Doesn’t mean I’m sorry.” “Kletva,” a cover from a 1970’s children’s movie, turns a simple shuffle groove into a swirling mix of drums and keys, while additional collaboration on “The Lovers” from Columbian group Somekong adds even more dramatic timing and energy. It’s this diversified, rhythmic palette and labyrinthine layering of effects and synths that galvanizes Velocifero will further push this amazing band ahead of the pack. You need this.

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