MELOTRON - Weltfrieden (ist kaeuflich)

There does not exist lots of German bands who decide to accompany their melodies with German lyrics. Well, Melotron did and they are very successful! In my opinion "Weltfrieden (ist kaeuflich!)" is the best of three albums by Melotron. The musical spectrum comprises ballades ("Wach Auf"), classic SynthPoP ("Gib Mir Alles", "Wohin?"), EBM ("Brueder") and finally FuturePoP ("Folge Mir Ins Licht"). It delivers a lot of variety that does not lead to boredom. As far as the cover version of Reinhard Mey's song "Lilienthals Traum" ... it's inclusion with the whole concept of "Weltfrieden" may be questionable. It definitely fits in content but musically some Melotron fans probably will expect something more "synthpoptic". On the other hand such excursions to other music genres prove the flexibility and creativity of the band. Concerning Melotron I have to say that Melotron prefers to compose music of artistic merit instead of commercial one hit wonders. Nevertheless "Weltfrieden" delivers some excellent and real danceable songs with catchy tunes which really invite you to dance (e.g. "Wohin?", "Folge Mir Ins Licht").

Melotron also made use of guest artists. For example Julia Beyer graces the refrain of "Folge Mir Ins Licht" with her smooth and clear voice, a child choir accompanies Melotron in "Wach Auf". I also have to mention the support of Dennis Osterman (In Strict Confidence) and Jeyenne (XPQ21).

Conclusion:
- Lyrics are top,
- Music is top

Also read the interview with Melotron and download some samples of "Weltfrieden".

COLOR THEORY - Something Beautiful

In his 4 previous releases Color Theory, aka Brian Hazard presented a lush combination of synthesizers with piano-playing and emotional lyrics. Brian Hazard of Color Theory was the first person who mixed classical music-elements with modern electronic pop becoming the best American purveryor of synthpop ballads.
With his 5th Album he tried to make something new without destroying the lyrical mood and expressions of his songs. He set aside all synthesizers and started with real instruments, like strings, fretless bass, flute, harp and real drums. Well, it's not SynthPoP anymore but it is still very similar to his previous releases. But his songs sound much warmer, gentle and they
create a very familiar atmosphere. The musical arrangements and the final mixing/mastering are on the same high level as his song-writing, which will also satisfy audiophiles.
I am sure his fans will still enjoy his great song writing and find this musical evolution very pleasing.

PLEASURES REMAIN - Waste My Time

"Waste My Time" will be the first single by the German newcomers Pleasures Remain which was founded in June 2000. Pleasures Remain represent melancholic and danceable SynthPoP which is based on well-tried synths and excellent singing. The smooth and warm voice of the singer perfectly harmonizes with the melancholic synth-arrangements. "Waste My Time" and "Pretty Girls (jab mix)" invite you to dance and they bring the listener back to the melodic eighties.
With "One Rainy Day" they also prove their skill in producing sensitive and atmospheric music. Pleasures Remain deliver pure SynthPoP that I like the most - a direct hit. They really understand how to compose music that is very close to SynthPoP.
I am looking forward to their first full length album, which will definitely enrich the German SynthPoP scene.

GARY FLANAGAN - Future Fashion

"Future Fashion" is Gary Flanagan's debut album which was produced by GANYMEDE and distributed by the new American label Cohaagen music. It comes with 10 tracks and 2 remixes, one by Simulator. Gary really knows how to create minimalist melodies which revive the feeling of the early eighties. Those melodies consist of simple playful electronic sounds which are supported by danceable beats. Gary combines his fm-sounding melodies with his unique vocal style (English and French lyrics) that sometimes reminds me of the early music by Kraftwerk,
Images in Vogue and Human League. My favorites are "Summertime" and "All We Are" which are perfectly suited for the dance-floor.
"Future Fashion" is a fascinating album that successfully revives the melodic eighties and it includes some nice surprises such as minimalist melodies and unusual sounds/effects.