Next Wave: Exotic Club

Exotic Club is an electronic dance duo consisting of Simon Lowzy and Rémi Rose. Since 2010, Simon and Rémi have been travelling back and forth from their home town of Paris, France to their new residence of choice Portland. Exotic Club's goal is to make noisy, synth infused, dance tracks that embraces the cryptic irony of pop in favor of a darkly dangerous apathy. Their style melds the energy of post-punk, the experimental aspects of noise, the raw emotion of dark disco and cold wave, and the primal rage of punk and rap core.

They are currently engaged in the production of a series of singles and music videos. The previous release Memories, a 2 track mini EP, was released on Romance Moderne, a Belgian label based in Brussels. Their latest track "Stars, Asteroïds, Moons and Comets" was recently premiered on Soundcloud and there is certainly more to come.

  

Billy Mackenzie's Outernational Reissue on March 25th

Cheery Red Records have announced the reissue of 'Outernational', the first solo album by Billy Mackenzie which was released in 1992. The CD reissue features the ten tracks of the original album release and four bonus tracks including mixes/remixes of "Colours Will Come - US 60659 Mix" by Larry Heard, "Feels Like The Richtergroove" by Mike Koglin, "Look What You've Done - Marital Mix" and the beautiful "Because You Love". The CD booklet features an expanded version of the original artwork and includes a detailed UK discography and sleeve notes. 

The release date is March 25th. 

www.cherryred.co.uk

February Singles Round-Up

1.Suede- It Starts and Ends With You 

2.David Bowie- Stars Are Out Tonight 

3.Yeah Yeah Yeahs- Sacrilege 

4.Little Boots- Motorway 

5.The Postal Service- A Tattered Line of String 

6.Space- Frighten Horses 

7.Miss Kitten- Bassline 

8.Alison Moyet- Changiling

9.British Sea Power- Machineries of Joy 

10.The Mary Onettes- Evil Coast 

To check out all the other single releases, visit our Facebook page!

 

Retrovision: The Stranglers- Midnight Summer Dream

Thirty years ago, the Stranglers released "Midnight Summer Dream". It was the second single that was taken from their seventh studio album Feline. The song was released as a 7" remix version and reached number #35 in the UK charts.

 

Edwyn Collins Announces The Release of New Album

Edwyn Collins will release a brand new album 'Understated' on March 25th 2013. His eight solo album will be the subject of an upcoming documentary called “In Your Voice, In Your Heart” that chronicles his recovery from a debilitating 2005 stroke. The album includes 11 songs — two of which were co-written with musician Richard Hawley and it is described as "northern soul, crossed over with punk". 

A Terrible Splendour Announce The Release of Poseurs

The long awaited debut album by the British duo Terrible Splendour is entitled 'Poseurs' and now it is available for pre-order only via Desire Records. This album comes as a follow up to their cassette only EP on the same label which was released in Autumn 2012 and which was sold out. Available in LP, CD and digital format, 'Poseurs' features 11 tracks ranging in style from dissolute disco to sombre cabaret musings. Resolutely modern synth sounds, in turn lush and vicious, combine with lyrics addressing the eternal themes of rebellion, shame and the vagaries of outrageous fortune. 

To stream and pre-order the album go to desirerecords.bigcartel.com/

In Conversation: Andy Oppenheimer

Andy Oppenheimer, a multi-talented individual based in the UK, wears many hats as an explosives expert, author, artist, and musician. In the realm of music, he's notably recognized as the co-founder, singer, and songwriter of the electronic duo Oppenheimer Analysis, formed with Martin Lloyd in the early 80s. Their influential album 'New Mexico' has experienced multiple resurgences, becoming a touchstone for the new DIY generation of electronic artists, thanks to the reach of the internet.

Andy's commitment to music persisted over the years, and in recent times, he has been notably active. Collaborating with Mark Warner on 'Touching The Void' and with Mickey Clarke on 'Major Impact' are among his recent projects. However, the focal point of this interview lies in his collaboration with Mahk Rumbae and the emergence of Oppenheimer MkII. Dive into the interview to explore the latest musical endeavors and the evolving world of Oppenheimer MkII. Enjoy the insights!

WAW: Featureless Ghost- Video Enforcement

Featureless Ghost have premiered a third video from their debut album 'Personality Matrix'. The video for "Video Enforcement" was recorded as a live performances and it is the first in a 2 part series of live videos shot at their Atlanta studio. The "Video Enforcement" track as well as the remix version of it by Tannhäuser Gate is available as a free download via Soundcloud.

 Video Enforcement Free Download

 

Sensual Harassment Return with Escape From Alpha Draconis

Old friends, Brooklyn based reptilian duo Sensual Harassment are back among us. From their native star, they have brought us their brand new escapee disco EP entitled ''Escape From Alpha Draconis''. The duo almost revel in art of blurring the lines of disco, pop and new wave, all while filtering it through their own unique vision, creating something that remains both familiar and new. Equipped with a clearer vision, an irresistibly melodic new EP and approving nods from the likes of Pitchfork, Vice, XLR8R, CMJ and Dazed and Confused and us of course, Sensual Harassment seem destined to be one of 2013’s brightest new stars - in our solar system and their own.

http://www.sensualharassment.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shnyc

 

Electronic' Debut Reissue Announced for March

EMI Music have announced the release of Electronic' self titled debut album. The new 2CD reissue will include a newly remastered edition of the original album on one disc, accompanied by a second CD featuring a dozen alternate versions, remixes, edits, B-sides and instrumentals, including their biggest hit and Neil Tennant collaboration on “Disappointed”. The album which was originally released in 1991 and first time reissued in 2007 will be out on March 11th in the U.K.

In Conversation: The Present Moment

When you think of L.A., what are some things that come to mind? Sunshine? Beverly Hills? The beach? Hollywood? The Walk of Fame? Let's forget them all, for now, as i would like to focus your attention in a different direction. The Present Moment are a bit of a hidden gem but very much loved by those in the know. That said, i've chosen to shine some very well deserved light their way. Comprised of main man and songwriter, Milton Scott, who crafts an infectious blend of melodic, dark, atmospheric, electronic goodness. And may i add shimmering abstract undertones in some places. Well, that's what i get out of it. I urge you to give them a listen and i'm sure you would highly agree.

Scott is a very busy man as he's in the process of finishing up a soon to be released LP. This will actually be his third and the follow up to 2010's "The High Road" and 2011's masterpiece, "Loyal To A Fault". Back in September, he reissued the debut album with the addition of four bonus tracks, two music videos, and some utterly flawless repackaging. Limited to 150 hand numbered pressings, you'll be very lucky and oh so happy to find a copy. Doing the reissue honors was German label, Hidden Treasure Music, who also played the role of booking agent, along with Antistars Booking, for last years very successful European tour. You can check out several tracks and purchase a digital download copy at Hidden Treasure Music @ Bandcamp if you're so inclined.

Being that he had a few days off, Scott agreed to answer some questions i threw his way. I was genuinely interested in finding out more than what i've shared with you. Let's see what he has to say, shall we?

Next Wave: blablarism

Being 20 years old and writing/producing dark, haunting, melodic atmosphere is indeed a rarity in this day and age. Oksana Zmorovytch is quite possibly the valedictorian of such a special class. This young lady doesn't miss a beat and exudes a passion that is undeniable. Going by the moniker blablarism (intentionally lowercased), she comes to us from Kiev, Ukraine. Just short of a day ago, she released her official debut offering, "Fugue", on the New Ideals label. It's a four song cassette EP that is limited to only 50 copies. For me, personally, it is a portal to lands unknown and soul fluttering dreams. I highly recommend her.

For more info, please visit: blablarism @ Facebook , blablarism @ SoundCloud , New Ideals @ Facebook , New Ideals @ SoundCloud

Retrovision: Missing Persons - Words

Epitomizing the early 80's L.A. New Wave scene, Missing Persons released their debut EP, "I Like Boys" in 1980. Fronted by vocalist Dale Bozzio and rounded out by Terry Bozzio and Warren Cuccurullo, the line up would later expand with the addition of Patrick O'Hearn and Chuck Wild. The first single and MTV staple, "Words", peaked at #42 on the US Hot 100 Singles Charts and went to #9 in Australia. The band would go on to release three studio albums and a string of singles while gaining a loyal following all along the way. They ended their run in 1986 as the members moved on to other projects. Most notably, Cuccurullo would land in the midst of Duran Duran as the replacement for the departed Andy Taylor.

Next Wave: Visonia

We, here at Burning Flame, have been keeping our ears on the lush and soothing sounds of Visonia. It seems we're not the only ones, and from what i've been seeing, the response has been a great one. The man behind it all is one Nicolas Estany who is well on his way to releasing his debut LP, appropriately named, "Impossible Romance". Based in Santiago, Chile, Estany is slowing creeping upon us, shrouded in mystery, and with stellar company in tow. This by way of a collaboration with Dopplereffekt on a track called, "Die Reisen". If that doesn't get your attention then nothing will. The music of Visonia is late night atmosphere at some of it's very best. An exact release date has not been specified but we're looking very forward to the fruits of his labor.

For more info and sounds, please visit: Visonia @ Facebook , Visonia @ SoundCloud , and Visonia @ YouTube

Reissues: Foretaste - American Terrorist TV-Show

And now for a reissue of a different kind. I say this as it's not the type of reissue we normally report about. In fact it's a re-working of a previous album, released in 2008, called "Terrorist TV". The tracklisting and songs themselves will be completely different from the prior release. Also included will be 2 tracks from previous EPs. Due any day now and limited to 300 copies.

In case you're unfamiliar with Foretaste, i'll give you a simple and brief history. The band is made up of two members, Sylvie aka "Lover XX (vocals) and Pierre aka "Lover XY" (programming / backing vocals). They hail from Paris and released their debut album, "Beautiful Creatures" in 2005. The third and latest official offering being "Love On Demand" from 2011. A string of live performances have been done, over the past few years, which included Paris and Italy to name a few. In addition to the 3 albums, there's is also a selection of digital  EP's available. XX and XY collaborate on their tracks and focus on matters such as crime, lust, passion, sadness, and forgiveness. I discovered them back in the glory days of Myspace and have been a huge fan since then. That said, i can personally attest to their synthsized goodness. "American Terrorist TV-Show" will be available for purchase at BOREDOMproduct Records within the coming weeks. I'd hate to have any gaps in my Foretaste collection so wish me luck in getting a copy.

For more info on Foretaste, please visit the following: Foretaste Official Site , Foretaste Official @ Facebook , Foretaste Official @ YouTube

January Singles Round Up

 Trust- Heaven
 The Knife- Full of Fire
David Bowie- Where Are We Now?
 Sally Shapiro- Starman 

Suede- Barriers 
Monarchy- Disintegration
Crystal Castles- Sad Eyes
 Soft Kill- Seven Hundred
 Bat For Lashes- A Wall
 Hurts- Miracle

 Club 8- Kill Kill Kill
Factory Floor- Fall Back  

Shout Out Louds- Walking in Your Footsteps 

 Jessie Ware- If You Never Gonna Move
 Stereophonics- Indian Summer 

The Men- Electric
 The Strokes- One Way Trigger

Next Wave: Gold Zebra

Gold Zebra is a Montreal based electro pop duo consisting of Julie (Vocals) and JP Richard (Synthesizers). The duo is active since 2010 when they released their debut EP on Visage Musique. Their music combines dark tones with melodic electro beats and seduces you with late night disco melancholia. The duo is currently working on their debut album which is announced for release in spring. Take a listen to Gold Zebra on Bandcamp and check out their official FB page for updates. 

Depeche Mode Reveal New Album 'Delta Machine'

Depeche Mode have announced that their 13th studio album studio album will be entitled Delta Machine. It is set for release on March 26th on Columbia Records. the debut video for their first single ‘Heaven’ will be premiered on February 1st on Vevo. Alongside a standard CD format, Depeche Mode will release 'Delta Machine' in an exclusive Deluxe Edition with four additional new tracks and accompanied by a 28 page hardcover book including photos by longtime artistic collaborator Anton Corbijn. 

 Following the release of their new album, Depeche Mode will embark on a European stadium tour, kicking off in Tel Aviv’s Hayarkon Park on May 7th. They will perform 34 shows in 25 European countries. 

http://countdown.depechemode.com/#delta

The Return of the New Wave Pirate

We already reported about Adam Ant's big return in 2012 and this weeks sees the release of his sixth studio album 'Adam Ant Is the Blueblack Hussar in Marrying the Gunner's Daughter'. The video for his first single "Cool Zombie" was filmed on 28 October, with NME running a competition offering readers a chance to be an extra in the shoot. The concept of the video, is the story of Adam's return to London after living in Tennessee. It was produced and directed by Adam Ant and Adam Ross. 

Rewind 2013 Line-up Confirmed

"Rewind Scotland – The 80s Festival" in Perth, Scotland is back for its third year running. The festival will take place from Friday 26th July until Sunday 28th July at Scone Palace, Perthshire, Scotland. 

This year’s line-up is headlined by Ali Campbell’s UB40 and OMD. Other highlights include a rare appearance from Jason Donovan, A Flock Of Seagulls, Tony Hadley, Rick Astley, Belinda Carlisle, Level 42, Earth, Wind & Fire Experience Featuring Al McKay, Howard Jones, Soul II Soul, Kim Wilde, Mike + The Mechanics, The Blow Monkeys, Sonia, Nik Kershaw and many more. 

Tickets will go on sale at 9am on Friday 25th January.Full details about ticket outlets and prices are available from the official Rewind website. 

 http://www.rewindfestival.com/
 

WAW: Crystal Castles- Sad Eyes

The brand new Crystal Castles video has been premiered today on Youtube. It is the video for the song "Sad Eyes" from Crystal Castles third album (III) which was released last year in November. Certainly one of the outstanding tracks from the album. 

Visage 2013- The New Line-Up

Visage are back with an new line up and big plans for 2013. Steve Strange and Steve Barnacle are joined by two new members Robin Simon (ex Ultravox) on guitars and Lauren Duvall on vocals. The new Visage quartet has also announced the release of a brand new Visage album for spring 2013. 

Stick around to find out more or follow Visage directly via Facebook or check out their new official page.  

  

http://www.visage.cc
 

We've Got A Fuzzbox And We're Gonna Use It to Reissue Bostin' Steve Austin

The mighty We've Got A Fuzzbox And We're Gonna Use It!! makes its Compact Disc debut on Cherry Red Records. The all-female quartet also known simply as Fuzzbox first made their mark on the nation when their debut single "XX Sex/Rules and Regulations" stormed the UK indie charts reaching #1. 

This 2CD/AA Sided "Splendiferous Edition" of the bands seminal classic "Bostin' Steve Austin" is set for release on January 28th. "Side A" features the original 12 track studio album, digitally remastered from its original analogue master tapes, whilst"Side AA" offers a comprehensive insight into the formative Fuzzbox years compiling 22 of the bands most rare and sought after recordings. The deluxe CD booklet features sleeve notes from the bands drummer Tina, complete with original and expanded artwork, featuring: single sleeve art, lyrics and rare promotional materials. 

 http://www.cherryred.co.uk
 

Oppenheimer MkII - The Presence of The Abnormal

Andy Oppenheimer, formerly Oppenheimer Analysis, was working on several musical projects last year including Oppenheimer MkII which features the collaboration with Mark Crumby of Konstruktivists. The duo met last year and started making music together. The result is their debut album 'The Presence of The Abnormal' which features 21st century Oppenheimer style electronic pop. The 12 track album is going to be issued by Klanggalerie and it will be available on CD and digital download initially, with a vinyl edition if there's enough interest. Oppenheimer MkII will be playing live in Vienna on 23 March to launch their first album.  

https://www.facebook.com/OppenheimerMkII
 

Next Wave: White Blush

White Blush is the pseudonym of LA based artist Carol Rhyu. Originally from Chicago, Carol began playing in synth bands when she was in film school in LA, culminating in her launching her White Blush project earlier this year. She’s just released her debut, self-titled, EP and it makes for engrossing listening. Influenced by Cocteau Twins, Julee Cruise and Velvet Underground and transformed in her own artistic vision, the music of White Blush seduces you with a dreamlike euphony. Carol is in now in post-production on a new music video with plans to play shows in early 2013. 

www.whiteblushh.com/caplunk/Home
https://www.facebook.com/whiteblush
  

Out This Week: New Order- The Lost Sirens

New Order are proud to announce the release of 'The Lost Sirens', an eight track mini album featuring Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris and Philip Cunningham. Featuring a truly eclectic mix of electronica and guitars, 'The Lost Sirens' features eight tracks which were recorded during the sessions for 'Waiting For The Sirens Call' and are all previously unreleased. The album is available on CD, LP and digital. 

OMD Announce The Release of 'English Electric' for April 8th

Orchestral Manouvers in the Dark have announced the release of their brand new album English Electric. The album will be released on April 8th on CD, deluxe CD+DVD, heavyweight vinyl LP, collectors' tin boxset as well as digitally. The first single will be "Metroland", released 25th March.

Men Without Hats Return to Europe After 20 Years- Tour Dates Announced

30 years ago, Men Without Hats told the world "You can dance if you want to." The world listened. Since then, the Canadian electronic rock band has continued to create iconic and irresistible pop music for three decades. Last year the band returned with a new album and in February they embark on their first European tour in over 20 years, performing all their classic hit singles, including "The Safety Dance", "I Got The Message", "Pop Goes The World", "I Like", "Living In China", plus songs from their critically acclaimed new studio album "Love In The Age Of War". 

The European tour starts Friday 1st February at London's Islington o2 Academy (only UK show), followed by dates across Germany, Austria, Denmark, and Sweden. 

Talk Talk- Natural Order- Natural History

Talk Talk are back with two new compilations on EMi this year. The first one is called 'Natural History - The Very Best Of Talk Talk' and it is a 3 CD reissue which features Talk Talk's commercial hits. Along with this comes 'Natural Order 1982 - 1991', curated by Mark Hollis, which showcases the “other” side of Talk Talk compared to the more commercial tracks on 'Natural History'. Both compilations are out next week, January 14th 2013. 

WAW: Xiu - Possession

Fresh from production is a brand new video by Xiu. "Possession" is a dark, synthy, and quite sexy tune taken from her upcoming EP of the same name. She makes her Belaten Records debut, in February, with select live appearances to follow. It's needless to say that she's a favorite around these parts. We've thoroughly enjoyed wathing this DIY greatness unfold. Don't blink as there's so much more to come and you really wouldn't want to miss out.

For more info on Xiu, please visit: Xiu @ Facebook , Xiu @ SoundCloud , and Xiu @ YouTube

Retrovision: Electronic- Forbidden City

The Britsh duo Electronic comprising Bernard Sumner and Johnny Marr released their sixth single "Forbidden City" in June 1996. The song was taken from their second album 'Raise The Pressure', their first release on Parlophone which was co-produced by Karl Bartos of Kraftwerk. The song was not a huge hit reaching only #14 on the UK Singles Chart, but did receive substantial radio play in Britain and remains one of Johnny Marr's favourite Electronic songs. This year in February Johnny Marr announced the release of his debut album 'The Messenger' and there are rumours of possible Electronic reissues during this year. 

Karl Bartos Announces a New Album in March

Karl Bartos, the well known one quarter of the classic Kraftwerk line-up has announced the release of his second album 'Off The Record' for March 15th. After leaving Kraftwerk in 1990, Karl Bartos was still involved with electronic music forming Elektric Music, collaborating with OMD and Electronic and recording solo. Ten years ago he released his debut solo album 'Communication' which featured the single "I'm the Message". "Off The Record" will be preceded by a new single "Atomium" which will be released on February 1st 2013. 

To get the latest updates, visit:

www.karlbartos.com.

 

The Return of David Bowie (Another Berlin Chapter?)

This morning of January 8th will certainly last in our memory. Out of nowhere came the news about the brand new David Bowie single "Where Are We Know?". Premiered on his 66 birthday, the track takes us back to Berlin and there are speculations of a possible fourth chapter of the Berlin Trilogy which will be called 'The Next Day' and which will be released on March 16th. The first single is produced by Tony Visconti with it's lyrics and the video (below) features footage of Berlin, and Bowie's face projected onto a shape, by long-time collaborator Tony Oursler. 

More Bowie News to come.

Reissue: The Lords of the New Church - The Gospel Truth

Today sees the release of the first official boxset by the 80's post-punk rockers. "The Gospel Truth" is a 3 CD / 1 DVD collection of rarities and live material. Doing the honors is the UK based, who have given CD/DVD rarities reissue treatments to Lou Reed, The Stooges, Roxy Music, Heaven 17, and a countless list of others. All featured material was recorded from 1982-1988 and comes nearly 23 years after the death of vocalist, Stiv Bators. Bators died on June 3, 1990 following complications from being hit by a taxi in Paris. This tragedy would bring the bands' activity to an end but the music still lives on.

Please visit The Gospel Truth boxset @ Action Records for complete tracklisting.

WAW: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - We No Who U R

Few days ago the new video by Nick Cave and The Bad seeds was premiered on YouTube. Just a reminder that this is the first track from the upcoming Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds album, Push The Sky Away which will be released on February 18th. The video for the song was directed by Gaspar Noé.

Suede Confirm New Album 'Bloodsports'

Suede have announced the release of their brand new album Bloodsports for this year. The album will be preceded by the single "It Starts And Ends With You" in February. A free download for one of the songs from the album entitled "Barriers", has also been made available today. Suede plan on celebrating the release of their new album with a one-off gig at London’s Alexandra Palace on March 30th. 

http://www.suede.co.uk/

 

Label Spot: Other Voices Records

Other Voices Records is a Russia based independent record label dedicated to releasing works by ambitious and creative artists from the past, present and future. The label concentrates on genres that originated in the 80's like new wave, minimal synth, electropop, post punk, cold wave, darkwave and shoegazer, but it isn't deaf to other music styles like indie rock, krautrock, goth rock, post rock, indie pop,electronica, trip-hop, ambient etc. 

The label was founded in 2007, out of the ashes of Russian pioneering post-industrial/ambient label Tantric Harmonies and till 2009, it existed as Intuition Records after which it changed the name to the Cure inspired Other Voices Records. From 2007 to date the label has issued and reissued albums and released compilations by artist such as Eleven Pond, Tobias Bernstrup, Parade Ground, Lust for Youth and many more. 

 Their most recent release is a compilation called 'Distant Noises' which collects fourteen artists from nine countries and two centuries. Upcoming and something we really look forward to is Soft Riot's debut LP 'Fiction Prediction' which is available on pre-order. More news on that soon.

More about the releases and updates:
http://www.othervoicesrecords.com/index.html

Next Wave: October Dance

October Dance are back with their debut EP '7 Moon' which is out this week. If you follow our blog, you might remember the dance floor filler "Houses Falling", which we introduced last October. Just a quick reminder that October Dance is an art/music concept which includes a collaboration between three Danish musicians and the artwork of the Austrian graphic designer Hans Tolford. The sound of October Dance has many references to the 1980's European art scene and it is an assembly of seductive electro beats, synthesizer hooks and unique art forms. The group interprets the Tolfordian universe, and draws upon the bottomless reservoir of creativity, which shapes the ensuing music. Follow the links for more info and updates.

www.octoberdance.dk
www.facebook.com/octoberdance


More info on Hans Tolford:
www.hanstolford.com

Reissue: Informatics - Dance To A Dangerous Beat

In the tradition of doing what they do best, Dark Entries Records has rounded up the best of Australian analog synthers, Informatics. The vinyl compilation titled "Dance To A Dangerous Beat" is set to be released on January 29. Tracks such as "Proximity Switch, "What A World", and "Hungry Pets" will be included amongst others. Informatics began in Melbourne, Australia in 1981 with the line-up of  Michael Trudgeon, Valek Sadovchikoff, Steve Adam and Ramesh Ayyar. Philip McKellar would be added to the mix in 1983. After two EP releases and numerous live performances, the band would end their run in 1985.

For more info and sound samples of this must-have release, please visit:

Dark Entries Records and Dark Entries Records @ SoundCloud