Recorded in 2000-2001 as a collaboration between Y (Ultra Milkmaids) and Klaus Jochim (Telepherique), "A-C [which stands for "Analogic-Computer"] symbiose", released this year by AFE, is a great example of intelligent, unpredictable non-standard electronica. Analogic bleeps, fat rhythms, drones, noises and interferences collide and are re-composed with the grace and geometrical precision of snowflakes. At times etheral and wisp-like ("Kw feat. computer welt"), at times rumbling like the breath of some gigantic machinery ("Jeux 1.2"), they overcome the capital sin of prefabricated sounds (which, alas, is so frequent both in digital and in analogic works) to really build something of their own. Listen to the alien beauty of 22'-long "Computer 3" to have a clue. Perfect abstract layout on semi-transparent matte paper to top off an excellent release. AFE is really setting some standards in the field of quality cd-r releases. This is limited to 222 copies, so hurry up.

VNV Nation "FuturePerfect" Metropolis Records Prepare yourself for the ultimate electronic synth-pop industrial ebm dance album by UK's own, VNV Nation, which stands for Victory Not Vengeance. Ronan and crew really hypes things up with powerful synths and electro beats that will make you bounce with such songs as "Epicentre", "Genesis", "Electronaut" and "Fearless". The band slows things down with a mid-tempo on "Holding On", and "Carbon". Once you pop this cd in your player, you'll never want to stop playing it.

Virgin Black "Sombre Romantic" The End Records This is one pure unique beautiful album by Australia's band, Virgin Black. Their music is goth/metal mixed with classical, gregorian chant, choir and opera. So brilliant, it's also sad, a feeling of sorrow and death. The cello that's playing on some of the tracks brings out the sadness and darkening gloom. There's an industrial track called "Walk Without Limbs" that's great for a club play. Also included a second cd of the band's three song ep "Trance." "Sombre Romantic" is an outstand-ing incredible album to get your hands on, only if you're an goth and metal fan.

After many years of "spit in your face" music KMFDM finally release their first live album. Recorded during their last tour STURM & DRANG bring us highlights of four different gigs they had during this US tour. The tracks have been selected directly by Sascha K. and they can make you feel the real power of the band's sound. Helped out by Raymond Watts of Pig the live line up is formed by six men and a girl: quite a big crew which is able to create an high impact on the audience. The thirteen tracks obviously cover a range of all their release with the preference of the last album "Attack" ("Attack/Reload", "Boots", "Yohoho" and "Sturm & Drang" are from that album) and for fifty seven minutes you'll be excited by driving guitar sounds, distorted rants and tons of power. Industrial, rock and metal are all blended together to create a tornado. This CD is not only for fans... P.s. Strange to notice that Sacha's voice live reminds me Foetus/Clint Ruin.

Tvmvlvs Seraphim is an Italian band which explores the realm of classic dark ambient creating five long suites based on echoed sounds and sick atmospheres (only "Alamvth" has got a medieval overture). Recorded between 2000 and 2002 the album is really cryptic and even if the band didn't too many efforts about the sounds' production (the tracks sound as one long piece) it reminds me of early Lustmord's recordings. The music isn't the only cryptic thing, also the project is permeated by a veil of mistery as apart the tracks' titles the listener hasn't got any information about the band. Into the inner sleeve there's only a J. Conrad's extract and the graphic show pictures of a clock tower, a darkened room and some buildings: a particular choice that differences the band from similar ones giving to CENTENARIANS' DIVINE LUNACY a touch of urban claustrophobia. If I should give them a vote, it would be a six out of ten because in my opinion when you decide to deal with these kind of atmpospheres the sound has got to be more incisive, powerful and definite.