A few weeks ago we wrote an article on Greenwashing in the music industry. Some considered it to be nonsense but behold, there is something brewing in the music world with the launch of a Music Industry Climate Collective and a Music Climate Pact.

Music Industry Climate Collective

Sony Music Group, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group have now formed the Music Industry Climate Collective (MICC) to address environmental challenges related to the global climate, particularly within the music industry. This collaboration aims to amplify environmental stewardship and provide tailored recommendations and strategies for music companies of all sizes.

One of MICC’s first initiatives is to offer comprehensive guidance for measuring scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions, which are indirect emissions occurring in the music industry’s value chain, including product manufacturing, distribution, and licensing.

The MICC has worked with scientific experts to develop the first draft of this guidance, which will be available for industry participants to review. Additionally, the MICC has established an advisory council comprising independent record labels, value chain partners, and climate experts to gather broader industry input. The aim is to set a science-based standard, fostering climate resilience within the music sector. This initiative also aims to provide critical guidance to partner companies starting to measure their emissions and promote consistency in how music companies develop and disclose greenhouse gas inventories.

Music Climate Pact

Another initiative is the Music Climate Pact, which has as a vision “to harness the power of the music industry towards inspiring transformational action on the climate crisis.” By aligning as a sector, they stand to de-politicise sustainability and address their biggest environmental impacts in an efficient and collaborative way. “There is a lot of work to be done if we are to become a more sustainable industry, but we will be guided by climate science and take tangible, unified action and regularly update on our progress.”

The Pact’s founder signatories have committed to:

• Take individual and collective action to measure and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions (scopes 1, 2 and 3)
• By February 2022, have either signed the Science Based Targets standard commitment letter stating that we will commit to setting science-based targets or will have joined the Race to Zero programme
• Work together as an industry to establish carbon measurement methodologies, tools and frameworks backed by climate science
• Work in partnership with shared suppliers and digital streaming platforms (DSPs) to obtain data and drive emission reduction projects in a collaborative fashion
• Support artists in speaking up on climate issues
• Communicate openly with fans about the impacts of the music industry.

Businesses signing up after the launch must have already signed up to one of the two pathways.

Basically what is being presented by these two initiatives is a lot less than what we talked about in our initial article. So it remains to be seen if all this will be something else than just green windowdressing, after all Greenwashing is rampant with concert organisers for instance as we pointed out. And that is where the biggest money is these days for the traveling artists.

Belgium’s electro act Llumen returns with a 9-track EP bridging the previous “Polygon Heart” album and the forthcoming album “The Breaking Waves” announced for Spring 2024 on Alfa Matrix.

“Die Stille Totgeschwiegen” is the first Llumen song mixing English and German lyrics, and is the first new song revealed from the forthcoming album “The Breaking Waves”. The track got remixed by Grendel, Elektrostaub and First Aid 4 Souls. Included as well are remixed versions of “Like My Pain” by Aiboforcen, Pre:Emptive Strike 0.1, Ah Cama-Sotz and Promenade Cinema.

You can download the new EP right here from Bandcamp.

About Llumen

Llumen emerged around 2010, marking a new phase in Pieter Coussement’s musical career. Before Llumen, Coussement was part of various projects, but with Llumen, he found a way to merge a more structured musical style with the experimental work he did at the Institute of Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music. As the years passed, Llumen developed its unique sound, leading to the release of its first digital EP in 2016 through Alfa-Matrix. 2017 saw the debut of Llumen’s album, “The Memory Institute,” which blends elements of EBM, futurepop, and gothic.

The Belgian cult dark electro / future pop act Aiboforcen has announced the release of their 7th studio album in the Spring of 2024, titled “Between Noise & Silence”. But before that they release an all new 7-track EP via Bandcamp revealing 5 new songs as well as the first guests to be featured on “Between Noise & Silence”.

The 7-track EP’s title-track “Cycle Of Life” features a vocal duo between Jan of Norderney and Noemi Aurora. The same line-up is used on “Heaven Knows”. “Cycle Of Life” gets featured in a single and in a club version plus a melodic remix by label mates Elektrostaub. And just like on the previous album, Mari Kattman (Helix) lends once more her voice on “Dead End” which is featured in a remixed version by Aesthetische. The EP also features 2 exclusive non-album songs with Patrice Synthea on the EBM cut “Katarsis” and Tina Forlom (Sorrow Stories) on the dark electro pop tune “Echoes”.

The bandcamp edition is accompanied by a booklet with lyrics and cool artwork design.

Brand new Aiboforcen video

Also included is a video for the track “Heaven Knows”.

ArtOfFact Records has found itself embroiled in an ongoing controversy following their decision to release a remix by the self-confessed pedophile musician Mr. Kitty (“Vital Signs – Mr. Kitty Remix”) for one of their recording artists, KANGA on November 10, 2023. The remix is part of a collection of KANGA’s Soundcloud-era remixes released by ArtOfFact Records.

This particular move by ArtOfFact Records was heavily criticized, as Mr. Kitty had previously been involved in a scandal where he admitted to having had an inappropriate online relationship with an underage fan in 2019. The situation raised questions about the label’s decision-making and ethical considerations, with Brutal Resonance for instance accusing the label of prioritizing profit over moral responsibility. At Side-Line we are very much concerned of the lack of initial insight that the rights of a child were grossly violated, which made this release a no-go from the start.

ArtOfFact Records initially did not comment on the situation but then as issued a formal apology on November 19th, 2023, following backlash from fans and artists within the scene. The label stated that they did not condone Mr. Kitty’s actions and announced a donation to a victims of abuse charity. However, their statement was criticized for not mentioning KANGA.

KANGA’s reaction was faster and included removing the remix and issuing video apologies as well as written notes on her social media accounts. Since ArtOfFact Records initially did not issue an apology, they left KANGA to manage the situation on her own bearing the brunt of the fallout. KANGA also said in an Instagram story that ArtOfFact pushed her into it although she constantly tried to reject the idea.

pic.twitter.com/AKhGOLwj2Y

— KANGA (@KANGAkult) November 16, 2023

Two days after the initial apology, ArtOfFact Records issued another statement directed at KANGA posting it as a reply under the initial statement. Despite these apologies, there continues to be considerable criticism towards the label for releasing the remix despite being aware of Mr. Kitty’s past.

Where did it all start with the Mr. Kitty scandal?

The controversy surrounding Mr. Kitty started with an article in the Austin Chronicle in Summer of 2021. The article accused Mr. Kitty, whose real name is Forrest Avery Carney, of being involved in a nearly four-month exchange of explicit Twitter messages, nude photos, and graphic videos with a 15-year-old fan from Russia and this in 2019. As a result Mr. Kitty posted an admission to having an inappropriate online relationship with the underage fan and that he was seeking help.

The victim stated that he felt “grossed out” by the experience and believed that Mr. Kitty’s public apology was an attempt to salvage his career. The conversations also leaked out online.

This singer is a pedophile and exchanged nudes with a 15-year-old boy. He manipulated and said that he was depressed and wanted to kill himself, people forgave him and continue to listen to his music. People should know the truth. His name is Mr.Kitty.

Please spread the word pic.twitter.com/ycOubKJ8gN

— vasya (@VasyaNartov) June 27, 2021

Following the revelation, some of the Mr. Kitty tour dates were canceled or postponed, and the Chicago-based darkwave record label Negative Gain announced that it would immediately discontinue all sales of Mr. Kitty’s albums and transfer streaming sales rights to his estranged husband. The label also stated that it does not support Mr. Kitty’s actions and made donations to RAINN and HRC in support of those harmed.

Mr. Kitty continues to release new material and so far has not responded to this new development.

The power game between musicians and fans

The situation – again – underscores the importance of considering the moral implications of business decisions, especially when they involve individuals with controversial pasts. The controversy also reflects broader issues within the music industry, such as power dynamics and the responsibility of labels in upholding ethical standards. Overall, Artoffact Records’ involvement in this controversy serves as a case study in the balancing act between commercial interests and ethical considerations in the entertainment industry.

The dynamic between a person in power, such as a musician, and underage fans is complex and often problematic due to the inherent imbalance of power. The relationship between musicians and underage fans is laden with potential risks due to the significant power imbalance. It is crucial for the industry, society, and the musicians themselves to recognize and address these risks to protect young individuals from exploitation and abuse.

Here are some key aspects of this dynamic:

1. Power Imbalance: Musicians and celebrities generally hold a position of power and influence, which can create an imbalance in their relationships with fans, especially underage ones. This power can stem from their fame, wealth, or the idolization they receive from fans.
2. Idolization and Vulnerability: Young fans often idolize musicians, viewing them as role models or figures of admiration. This idolization can make underage fans vulnerable to manipulation and abuse, as they might be willing to overlook or excuse inappropriate behavior.
3. Manipulation and Abuse: In some cases, musicians might exploit their power and the adoration of young fans for personal gain. This can include grooming, where the musician slowly manipulates and coerces a fan into a sexual or otherwise inappropriate relationship.
4. Consent and Maturity: Underage fans, due to their age, are not legally capable of giving consent in many jurisdictions, especially in the context of a relationship with an adult. Furthermore, the cognitive and emotional immaturity of minors makes them incapable of fully understanding or consenting to certain actions or relationships.
5. Responsibility of the Influencer: Musicians, as public figures, have a responsibility to conduct themselves ethically, especially in interactions with young and impressionable fans. Exploiting their status or the admiration of fans for personal or sexual gain is not only unethical but often illegal.
6. Fan Communities and Peer Influence: The dynamics within fan communities can also play a role. Sometimes, peer pressure or a desire to fit in with a group can lead younger fans to engage in behavior or overlook warning signs that they might otherwise question.
7. Societal and Industry Responsibilities: The music industry and society as a whole have a duty to protect young fans from potential abuse. This includes enforcing laws and regulations, promoting ethical behavior, and providing education about the risks of power imbalances in fan-celebrity relationships.

This is not the first and will not be the last time that certain musicians abuse their power in order to get sexual favors from (underage) fans.

Originally self-released via their DIY Tiny Box label in a very limited quantity, the Scottish post-punk/minimal electro act Hanging Freud are now also re-releasing their previous (6th) studio album “Persona Normal” via their new label partner Spleen+ (division of the Belgian Alfa Matrix label group), digitally via Bandcamp, in a digipak edition, as well as vinyl in two different colours (solid gold or solid silver) each strictly limited to 150 units worldwide.

Pre-orders are available via the Alfa Matrix store and these will all be shipped on December 1st.

Here’s how the vinyls look like.

The band also recently announced a brand new album, “Worship” on which Paula Borges and Jonathan Skinner continue refining their unique sound identity evoking influences and elements of post punk, ethereal, synthgaze, cold wave, ambient pop or yet experimental electronica.

“Worship” gets released as a limited vinyl edition available in 2 different colours: transparent violet and transparent turquoise (150 copies each worldwide) as well as a lush double-CD digipak with the “Anomalies” bonus EP just like in this Bandcamp download.

You can check out the album below on Bandcamp.

The Australian techno-industrial project Studio-X is currently working on a new full-length album, Australian. But before that new album will be released you can already enjoy the new single “Cause Of Pain”.

Lawrie B. explains: “While the lyrics reflect a story of living with addiction, the tale of a life on the verge of self-destruction.” The track comes accompanied by an alternative ‘hard cyber minimal’ version featuring a dark ‘less is more’ approach. The new single is available on all platforms including of course Bandcamp.

Studio-X is a hard dance project founded by Matthew M. and Lawrie B. in December 2008. The project is currently based in Adelaide, Australia and is now Lawrie B. Who often also invites other musicians to work with him on new material.

Musically this is one of the most innovative acts coming from the industrial scene, so you might want to check out this new single as well!

Also coming up is a Studio-X remix for Acylum via Alfa Matrix. “This one is going to be a banger 🔥” so Lawrie B. says on a Facebook post from early October. But for now enjoy the brand new single “Cause Of Pain” from Studio-X.

Taken from Alien Vampires’ recently released new album “Return Me To Hell”, comes the brand new 2-track download single “Witchy Bitchy”.

“Witchy Bitchy” features nobody else but legendary alternative sexy model and cage dancer Dani Divine on additional vocals. Coming from London, Dani Devine is a professional model who gained popularity in the alternative modeling scene (fetish, goth, steampunk…). She won amongst others the Ultra Vixen of the Year award.

The new single features an exclusive upbeat remix of the song by the band’s side-project Speed Injektion. Bandcamp fans will also receive the exclusive uncensored video clip that was made for “Witchy Bitchy” by Asako.

Below is the video you get as well via your Bandcamp download.

Since 2003, Nysrok Infernalien and Nightstalker have been delivering aggressive and powerful dark EBM music under the Alien Vampires moniker. They mix harsh distorted vocals with lots of sexuality and industrial dance.

Belgian post-punk band The Ultimate Dreamers have unveiled their unique rendition of “Lovesong,” originally by The Cure. The cover is available for free download now from the band’s Bandcamp page and is part of the Spleen+/Alfa Matrix tribute compilation, “A Strange Play vol.2“, which features various artists paying homage to the iconic British band. The compilation is available for streaming and download on Bandcamp.

A Fresh Spin on a Cult Classic

The Ultimate Dreamers have put their own spin on this beloved track by slowing down its tempo and incorporating TR808 drums. The band’s signature reverb adds a layer of depth, enhancing the song’s already dark atmosphere. This creative approach has led the band members to affectionately refer to their version as “Lovedark.”

A Glimpse into the Band’s Unique Style

The cover serves as an excellent introduction to The Ultimate Dreamers’ melancholic cold wave universe. The band has also released a complementary video clip to accompany the song.

Credits

• Words by: Robert Smith
• Music by: Roger O’Donnell, Robert Smith, Porl Thompson, Lol Tolhurst, and Boris Williams
• Recording, Mixing, and Production: Len Lemeire at Implant-Plant 3.0
• Video: Valentine Blanco

Maxx Maryan, one half of the popular Italian duo Helalyn Flowers, has just released a new free single called “I Love You” on Bandcamp. He’s releasing it under the name ImJudas, and it’s available through the Belgium-based label Spleen+. This single is a preview of ImJudas’ upcoming album, “Viscerheart.”

The song “I Love You” is a dark pop track that will appeal to fans of ’80s pop-wave and post-punk music. It sets the tone for an album that will focus on dark pop.

ImJudas started in 2016 as an electro-pop project with a dark twist. The music blends elements of electronic dark wave and post-punk. Since then ImJudas released several EPs (“Tulpa”, “Ritual”,”So Untrue”, and the recent one “People Of The Blame”) and one album, the 2CD “Yrjudas”. You can download all releases from the ImJudas Bandcamp page.

Belgian electronic artist Franky Deblomme is set to release Cubic’s new studio album through the Alfa Matrix label. The album will feature elements such as 808 drums, percussions reminiscent of Kraftwerk, and references to 80’s floppy discs and vintage personal computers.

Cubic has now released a 4-track EP titled “c64” via Bandcamp, which draws inspiration from the Commodore 64 computer.

The approach of this EP is like a voyage through the vintage synth world. The opening track “TITT” incorporates elements commonly found in classic electro tracks, such as 808 style drums, a dreiklangsdimensionen snare, percussion sounds, analog basslines, and vocoder voices. Following this, “Offline” features a distorted sound with a pronounced kick and a Novation bass station 2 synth element. “Art In” uses 4/4 kicks, a bassline from Analogue Solutions ‘Fusebox synth’, and a Moog Sub 37 patch for its lead sound, reminiscent of artists like The Hacker and Commuter. The final track, “B C L” (an abbreviation for Basic Computer Language), includes a 90’s style bassline created with the Modor NF-1, probably one of the only synthesizers originating from Belgium, and has similarities to the style of electro artist Anthony Rother.

All tracks have been created using hardware gear only. “Nothing beats the fun of twiddling knobs”, says Franky Deblomme.

You can check the EP out below, it’s immediately available via Bandcamp.

A few days before the official release of their all new album “Digital Outcast” (available as download on Bandcamp and on CD), German duo Darkness On Demand releases a video for the album track “Reactor 4”. The video uses AI technology to bring back to live a story about a nuclear incident resonating in the lyrics: “I feel like an atomic booster, I feel like a toasted rooster, Don´t wanna stand in fallout rain, Gamma rays inside my brain.”

Here’s the video.

The single follows the duo’s last singles “Hang On” and “Female Grace” and the exclusive EP “Final Way” and is a new teaser for the all new album from the ex-Dance Or Die members. The album will be out this Friday digitally and on CD via the Belgian label Alfa Matrix records.

Darkness On Demand has been active since 2017 and offer a sound where they merge moody melodic electronics with dark vocals and upbeat frontal EBM industrial. “Digital Outcast” will be a what the label describes as “a major call for freedom of art & expression, heavily criticizing autocratic regimes, mass-media manipulations, freedom restrictions and all other excesses of our society reminding us how prophetic dystopian social science fiction novels like “Brave New World” or “1984” were…”

Below are the previous videos.

Every time Side-Line releases a new compilation, I seize the chance to interview Bernard Van Isacker, the chief compiler for Side-Line and our editor-in-chief. This time around, he has curated the comprehensive 88-track “Electronic Bodies” compilation, predominantly focusing on EBM with a hint of New Beat. I must say, I’m perpetually amazed at how he juggles his time. Not only does he supervise Side-Line, but he’s also engaged with Alfa Matrix, holds a full-time role in online marketing with an international firm, and has recently founded the digital marketing agency, Fox DS.

SL: With such a packed schedule, how do you find the time for these compilation projects?

BVI: Honestly, I often ponder how I muster the time and enthusiasm to initiate and oversee projects of this magnitude, given their time-consuming nature. The motivation largely stems from the Side-Line community; I sometimes feel I owe them my time (laughs). I genuinely enjoy these projects; I’m a person who thinks in terms of projects and concepts rather than daily routines. This mindset is evident even in my day job, where I’m known to favour large-scale, impactful projects over short-term tasks. This approach ensures consistency in my endeavours. As I age, I notice this trait becoming more pronounced.

SL: Merely 12 hours post-release, the “Electronic Bodies” compilation has already clinched the top position on the industrial charts. How do you maintain such consistency?

BVI: The credit goes entirely to our audience. Time and again, I observe the active engagement of the Side-Line community. The volume of personal emails from readers is staggering, and I make it a point to respond to each one, even the occasional critiques regarding our editorial decisions. A prime example is our decision to remove ads from Side-Line, a move purely based on reader feedback. In hindsight, it was probably our best decision, eliminating those intrusive Adsense ads that marred our magazine for years.

Returning to your question, we can now engage tens of thousands of fans with a single click. I always strive for transparency in our communication. For instance, if a project gets shelved (which has happened once in the past two decades), I explain the reasons behind the decision. Honest communication is paramount in everything we do at Side-Line. I’m fortunate to run this magazine alongside one of the most principled individuals I know, Stephane Froidcoeur. I highly regard his opinions, and despite our occasional disagreements, we remain an inseparable duo, frequently deliberating on our future direction. This long-term planning is crucial to our operations.

SL: What drove your decision to spotlight EBM and a bit of New Beat?

BVI: The idea dates back a few years. Sven Lauwers, Andy De Decker (Ionic Vision / Metroland), and Franky Deblomme (Cubic, Darkmen) once suggested that Side-Line should explore EBM and New Beat. This concept lingered in my mind, but with the “Electronic Resistance” projects consuming a significant portion of my time over the past 18 months, it took a backseat. However, a recent conversation with Sven reignited this dormant idea. A brief poll on Side-Line’s Facebook page indicated the potential success of this project. While the popularity of our compilations has been on an upward trajectory, I’m acutely aware that success shouldn’t be taken for granted. It’s imperative to consistently deliver value.

SL: On that note, I was surprised to discover the new Ionic Vision track “Deathrow” in the compilation. How did that inclusion come about?

BVI: When I informed Sven about this upcoming project, I inquired if he had any unreleased tracks to contribute. He mentioned their unreleased album and promptly sent over a track. Ionic Vision has been a staple in my EBM mix from the outset, so it’s gratifying to feature this iconic Belgian act in the compilation. Additionally, Andy contributed a track from his project, Him+He, which leans more towards New Beat.

SL: ELM, which kicks off the compilation, is widely regarded as a trailblazer in today’s EBM scene. Would you concur?

BVI: Absolutely. Musically and in terms of production, Peter is top-tier. Had ELM been active in the 80s, he’d undoubtedly be a superstar. I recently discussed ELM during an interview for Canada’s DJ Moose’s The Gothic Moose podcast. Fabrício Viscardi from Aesthetische was also a guest, and we delved into the production quality of various releases. Fabrício (just like Peter), in my opinion, possesses exceptional production skills. Both ELM and Aesthetische consistently deliver top-notch productions.

SL: Not surprisingly that I also see Aesthetische featured on this compilation.

BVI: Indeed. Upon hearing the masters for “Boiling Over (Celsius Version)”, I was convinced it deserved a spot on the compilation. I sought Seba Dolimont’s (Alfa Matrix) opinion, and his response echoed my sentiments. This track epitomises the evolution of EBM in 2023, infusing a contemporary touch while preserving its roots. Coupled with superior production, it’s undeniably a gem.

SL: I’ve observed that only a handful of bands in the compilation are established names in the scene. Are other labels hesitant to collaborate?

BVI: I never pressurise scene labels to contribute. They receive an invitation, and their participation is entirely voluntary. Our compilation series has always been independent of label contributions, although a few labels consistently support our vision and concept. The majority of submissions are from emerging bands eager to expand their audience. Our primary objective remains to nurture and promote new talent. We’re always open to collaborations, and labels willing to contribute are always welcome.

SL: Do you maintain communication with all these numerous bands post-release?

BVI: I consistently encourage bands involved to keep me informed about their subsequent activities once the release is out. Many do, and this way we ensure to track their progress and share updates when there’s noteworthy news. Our approach isn’t just a one-off; it’s only fitting that these bands know they can rely on our continued support.

SL: Was the process of selecting bands for this compilation straightforward?

BVI: The response we receive when we issue a call for submissions is always overwhelming. Sifting through the plethora of material is a weeks-long endeavour. Once I’ve shortlisted the bands, the next step involves securing contracts, which proved challenging this time around due to the sunny weather. Chasing contracts during the summer holiday season is far from ideal, that I knew and know now even more. One contract eluded us, resulting in 88 bands on the compilation instead of the initially announced 89. So, for those fixated on the number 88, the missing 89th slot isn’t our oversight but a consequence of the band’s oversight (laughs).

SL: What inspired your focus on Ukrainian victims of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

BVI: I recently came across an article detailing the psychological toll of the war initiated by Russia against Ukraine. The repercussions are devastating, with families torn apart and a surge in divorces and suicides. Many are grappling with PTSD, a condition that arises after experiencing traumatic events. Symptoms disrupt daily life, manifesting as flashbacks, avoidance behaviours, and a host of other issues. If we’re in a position to assist, we should.

SL: Doesn’t immersing yourself in such grim realities depress you?

BVI: While it’s undeniably sombre, it’s essential to recognise our privileged position compared to their plight. Rather than symbolic gestures, I advocate for tangible action. The West should be doing more. The disparity between resources squandered on frivolities and the valiant efforts of the Ukrainian populace defending their homeland infuriates me.

SL: I’ve noticed a decline in the presence of Russian bands in this scene. Have you observed this trend?

BVI: They haven’t vanished; they’ve chosen to either keep a low profile or relocate from Russia. In a few instances, some even openly support the controversial regime led by Putin. For example, Side-Line has a policy not to feature bands that align with Putin’s views. I’m in regular contact with many Russians. A majority express their dismay at the current situation, foreseeing significant repercussions as their nation faces increasing isolation, contrary to what some media outlets suggest. Do you think the BRICS nations appreciate having such an outlier in their midst? A few others I converse with remain reserved, but their sentiments suggest they don’t necessarily disagree with their nation’s actions in Ukraine. It’s disheartening, but I believe in maintaining open communication, hoping they’ll recognize the gravity of the situation. Decades of propaganda have left a profound impact.

The future of Russia’s dark music scene remains uncertain. I hope they recognize the extensive damage their nation has inflicted. With a death toll exceeding 300,000, there’s no room for national pride. The current oppressive environment will likely stifle these bands’ voices, leading me to anticipate a decline in activist lyrics and public positions in their work. This shift should serve as a stark indicator for those still questioning the integrity of their government and its societal constraints.

SL: Why hasn’t Side-Line ventured into establishing a full-fledged label? Given the magazine’s dedicated readership, it seems like a logical progression, doesn’t it? I remember discussing this with you before.

BVI: Yes you did, and my stance hasn’t changed (laughs). Side-Line collaborates with thousands of bands. Focusing on a select few could compromise our credibility. I’m meticulous about ensuring my involvement with Alfa Matrix doesn’t influence Side-Line’s operations. Managing bands under the Side-Line banner would blur these lines further. While I frequently receive proposals to release albums, I remain committed to Side-Line’s vision of being a platform for all bands within our genre. Our audience’s trust and respect are paramount. Their unwavering support is the lifeblood of Side-Line. Without them, there’s no magazine, and consequently, no compilations.

SL: During this project, were there any bands that particularly resonated with you?

BVI: Conditions Extrm and their side-project Balsab, both hailing from Bordeaux, intrigued me with their raw EBM sound. Their music evokes memories of the tape demos Side-Line received in the early 90s. They encapsulate Side-Line’s ethos of amplifying young bands’ voices. Numerous other bands contributed, but these two immediately come to mind due to their interconnectedness, despite submitting their tracks separately.

SL: What’s on the horizon for Side-Line? I’ve heard whispers of a potential Turkish compilation. Can you shed some light on this?

BVI: Those aren’t mere whispers; I’ve alluded to it occasionally. I’m liaising with Turkish partners to assess its feasibility. I often encounter criticism for not featuring bands from the Muslim world in our compilations. While I’m open to the idea, the scene in these countries isn’t as expansive. However, the prospect intrigues me, and I’ve initiated preliminary research. No promises, but the groundwork has begun. For now, enjoy the current compilation, it holds plenty of good stuff!

(Photo by Mika Baumeister) Erhan Kurkun, a former member of Praga Khan and guitarist for Lords of Acid, will face trial in a Belgian court in September over a MeToo case. He is accused of sexual assault, rape, and inhumane treatment. Four women have come forward in the case Nancy Swerts of the Leuven prosecutor’s office confirms.

It’s uncertain if Kurkun will play on Lords of Acid’s forthcoming 53 concerts in the USA this autumn.

For years, there have been rumours about Erhan Kurkun’s violent behaviour, often alleged to be due to alcohol and drugs. In late 2020, a former singer from Lords of Acid claimed he had assaulted her. She alleges that Kurkun, with whom she had a brief relationship, had mutilated her. A total of four female victims have come forward. Another woman who joined the lawsuit had previously worked with Kurkun.

Erhan Kurkun was Praga Khan’s primary guitarist. After being released from custody, he played during Praga Khan’s final live show, The End, in Brussels.

A few months back, Deborah Ostrega, former lead singer, spoke on the radio about her time with the band in the late ’90s. She mentioned selecting men from the crowd to join her on stage and possibly be invited to her hotel room afterwards. Ostrega acknowledged the era’s difference, suggesting such actions today might lead to MeToo allegations.

Alfa Matrix, the renowned Belgian label, commemorates its 22nd anniversary with yet another mastodont compilation on Bandcamp. The latest installment in the acclaimed “Matrix Downloaded” series, titled “Matrix+ Downloaded 011”, is now available as a free download on their Bandcamp page. Packed with 60 tracks, including new signings and a preview of the upcoming Spleen+ label releases, this compilation showcases Alfa Matrix’s diverse music repertoire.

“Matrix+ Downloaded 011” soared to the top of the industrial Bandcamp charts within hours of its release, claiming the coveted number 1 position.

The collection holds 60 tracks in total including several new signings. These are the bands present on this brand new free download compilation: Hanging Freud, The Ultimate Dreamers, The Breath Of Life, Psy’Aviah Feat. Sorrow Stories, ImJudas, Star Industry, Halo In Reverse, Lovelorn Dolls, The True Union, Freakangel, Avarice In Audio, Siva Six, Alien Vampires, Synapsyche, Helalyn Flowers, Neuroactive, Elektrostaub Feat. Stefan Netschio, Technoir, Entrzelle, Llumen, Noemi Aurora, Aiboforcen Feat. Jan D., Reichsfeind, Mondträume Feat. N-Frequency, The Psychic Force, Digital Factor, Implant, Darkness On Demand, Aesthetische, Komor Kommando Vs. The True Union, Matthew Creed, C-Lekktor, First Aid Tech, Pouppee Fabrikk, ELM, Die Robo Sapiens, Plastic Noise Experience, Armageddon Dildos, Stahlgeist, AD:keY, Kant Kino, Suicidal Romance, Miseria Ultima, First Aid 4 Souls, Neikka RPM, Circumpolar, Venal Flesh, Helle9, Diffuzion, Acylum, Circuito Cerrado, Aengeldust, Studio-X, 808 Dot Pop, Cubic, Metroland, Rector Scanner, Elektroklänge, Cosmic Armchair, Lights A.M.

You can download “Matrix+ Downloaded 011” for free via Bandcamp.

Nine years after the release of their first tribute to The Cure, titled “A Strange Play – Tribute to The Cure“, Alfa Matrix and Spleen+ have joined forces to create a follow-up tribute album. The second volume in the series, “A Strange Play (Vol. 2) – Tribute to The Cure“, features 27 tracks, including electro, synth pop, EBM acts from Alfa Matrix and cold wave, post-punk, and gothic rock bands from their Spleen+ division and is out now via Bandcamp, the label’s webstore and all other platforms.

The album includes reinterpretations of classic hits and lesser-known B-sides, shedding new light on the original tracks or giving them an entirely different sonic perspective. The tribute album itself this time is a collaborative effort between both established and emerging artists from the Alfa Matrix and Spleen+ rosters.

Compiled by and for The Cure fans, this new tribute adventure brings together a growing roster of Spleen+ artists, including Noemi Aurora, Star Industry, Imjudas, The Ultimate Dreamers, The Breath of Life, and Lovelorn Dolls. Additionally, the album features synth and electro cult acts, as well as upcoming Alfa Matrix artists, such as Neuroactive, Armageddon Dildos, Implant, Darkness on Demand (formerly Dance or Die), Helle9 (an Alien Vampires side-project), Metroland, Aesthetische featuring Zombie Girl, Aiboforcen, Technoir, Kant Kino, Digital Factor, Regenerator, Lights A.M (an Essence of Mind solo project), Neikka RPM, First Aid 4 Souls, Diffuzion, Avarice in Audio, Elektroklänge, Circumpolar, and Cosmic Armchair.

In conjunction with the release of “A Strange Play (Vol. 2),” goth-metal/darkwave act Lovelorn Dolls has released a single and accompanying video clip for their cover of “Lullaby.” The music video, created entirely using artificial intelligence, tells the story of a girl pursued by a mysterious, threatening, yet alluring man. The video’s creator, Kristell, was inspired by her own childhood experience of being both fascinated and frightened by The Cure’s original “Lullaby” music video.

Here’s the track list for the new volume which is available now on 2CD via the Alfa Matrix webstore and as download via the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page and the Spleen+ Bandcamp page.

Here’s the first volume.

Italian vocalist, songwriter, and music producer Noemi Aurora, who is also the co-creator of the Italian electro-metal rock duo Helalyn Flowers, has released her debut solo single on the brand new Belgian post-punk / minimal electro label Spleen+. The single is available now for free download via her Bandcamp page.

“Shining” is born out of moments of isolation during the lockdown, “during which I channelled the trauma of inner seclusion into illuminating emotional surges” so she says. The track is an infectious minimal pop song with a hint of cold wave darkness.

This is the inaugural song heralding an incredibly diverse “Kintsugi” solo album, where listeners can anticipate energetic percussion, dark synth ambiances, dance-inducing electronics, and Noemi’s vocal prowess.

She characterizes her new creation as “a cyclical amalgamation of musical influences that originated from my teenage years, as I roamed the countryside with my trusty cassette walkman, unafraid of being labelled the ‘peculiar’ gothic girl, donning my headphones and immersing myself in my 80s/90s mixtapes which ranged from the most obscure darkwave bands, through rock/alternative, indie electronica, to even the most intense metal. My project sprouted from these roots and has grown and evolved to the present day…”.

The single is available for free download on her Bandcamp page. Highly recommended!

The Breath of Life was formed in 1985 and the band immediately stood out thanks to a creative originality, as a result they are the best known cold wave gothic rock band from Belgium. The band has now signed to the brand new post-punk label Spleen+ (division of Alfa Matrix) where they will be releasing their 11th album.

A first excerpt in the format of a 3-track EP is out now via Bandcamp (and all other platforms): “Down We Go”. The EP evokes good old ethereal moments from the 4AD cult years merged with their classic darkwave roots. Also added to this 3-track release is the band’s take on The Cure’s “The Lovecats” which got turned into a much darker version. As 3rd track you get a more electronic song which is their very own reinterpretation of Implant’s “The Last Record” featuring Len Lemeire himself on backing vocals.

Anno 2023, The Breath Of Life are Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Philippe Mauroy (guitar, drums programming), Giovanni Bortolin (violin, keyboards), Didier Czepczyk (bass).

Below is the video for “The Lovecats”.

About The Breath Of Life

The group was formed in 1985 in Gembloux when Isabelle Dekeyser (vocals), Philippe Mauroy (guitar), and Benoît Sokay (bass) first met. In 1990, with the addition of Giovanni Bortolin (keyboards & violin – formerly of Jo Lemaire + Flouze) and the decision to incorporate a drum machine, the group independently produced a 10-track cassette. In 1991, the band embarked on a tour in Czechoslovakia, followed by another tour the following year, which is reflected in their debut CD “Live in Praha 92”.

That same year, they released their first studio album “Painful Insanity,” recorded by Gilles Martin, a renowned producer of Coldwave (Minimal Compact, Tuxedomoon, Anna Domino, Colin Newman, Malaria, The Names, Indochine). 1993 marked their breakthrough with the release of “Taste of Sorrow,” also produced by Martin, featuring the title track “Nasty Cloud,” which became a gothic classic.

In 1995, the band released “Lost Children,” showcasing a more ethereal wave style. They subsequently signed with Hall of Sermon for their next album, “Sweet Party,” which came out in 1997 and marked a shift towards a more pop and electronic sound. In 2000, they released “Silver Drops,” once again with Martin at the mixing desk. The album combined melancholic pop with elements of trip hop. Shortly after, Mauroy departed the band, and Didier Czepczyk took over on guitars.

With the albums “Everlasting Souls” (2005) and “Whispering Fields” (2012), the band returned to their gothic roots and introduced a real drummer, Marc Haerden. Benoît Sokay, the bassist since the band’s inception, left in 2014, and in January 2015, Philippe Mauroy rejoined the band, almost 15 years after his departure.

In May 2017, the album “Under The Falling Stars” was released, marking the return of Gilles Martin as the producer. In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and while Belgium was still under lockdown, the band decided to record their 10th album. Each member recorded their respective parts at home and shared the files using WeTransfer. However, when COVID-19 restrictions allowed, two band members traveled to France and met with Gilles Martin for the final mixing process. The resulting album, titled “Spark Around Us,” was released in November 2020.

During the lockdown in Belgium, the band recorded three cover songs: “Winning” by The Sound, “Ashes To Ashes” by David Bowie, and “Inner Station” by Minimal Compact. These covers were exclusively released on Bandcamp. In 2022, they were approached by the Belgian record label Alfa Matrix for various compilation projects. The band was asked to cover a song from the Belgian electro project Implant, a song from the electro-pop band Psy’Aviah, and a song from the Italian project Imjudas.

As one thing led to another, the band was soon approached to join Alfa Matrix’s post-punk sublabel, Spleen+.

Swedish electronic act ELM follows up the success of its very well received 2022 album “Penetrator” with a new limited-edition release on black vinyl, titled “Penetrator – Fulmen Adveho!” Limited to just 300 units worldwide, the album is now available via the Belgian label Alfa Matrix on vinyl and as download via Bandcamp plus of course all other streaming services and platforms.

The “Penetrator – Fulmen Adveho!” release takes the original versions of songs from the “Penetrator” album and reimagines them with fresh energy. Some tracks have undergone only minor edits to adapt them for the dance floor and the vinyl format, while others have experienced more significant transformations. The result is a very powerful showcase of Electronic Body Music (EBM) at its finest, drawing comparisons to classic acts such as Nitzer Ebb, Front 242, and Pouppée Fabrikk.

You can expect intense basslines, forceful rhythms, and piercing vocals and lyrics.

The album is also available via Bandcamp as a download. Below is an idea what to expect.

The Belgian electronica pop ensemble, 808 DOT POP, makes a return with a double EP following the well-received launch of their companion CD albums “FM88.2” and “AM1350” (plus “MW720” available on digital platforms) under the Belgian electro label, Alfa Matrix.

Now available, initially via the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page, are two fresh EPs, “FM96.9” and “AM1040”, both emphasising the second single “Distant Voices”.

Vocal duties are handled by Lis van den Akker, who is featured on the leading song, which gets reimagined in an Erasure-esque style.

Alongside a revised version of the album track “Modulation”, there are two exclusive titles – one being “FM/AM” and the all-new track “The Boys Of Wireless”, influenced by Frank Webster’s 1912 book. There are also two new extended versions, one of “Distant Voices” and one of “Modulation”, as well as a club mix by Belgian artist Sequence 5.

A video for “Distant Voices (on the radio)” has also been launched.

In an unexpected turn of events, Rammstein’s frontman, Till Lindemann, aged 60, took a tumble from the stage during the band’s inaugural concert of their 2023 European tour in Vilnius, Lithuania.

As the band took their final bow, Lindemann, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the fans for their enthusiastic participation. However, moments later, he took several steps backward and toppled off the stage, as seen in the fan-recorded video footage below.

Several concert-goers captured the incident on their cameras. The footage reveals Lindemann, after bidding the audience farewell, losing his balance and plummeting face-first into a void towards the back of the stage.

Here’s from another angle.

An interesting feature of Rammstein’s stage setup is a rear/middle ramp, utilized by the band for swift under-stage access. This ramp is a regular part of Lindemann’s performances, particularly when he prepares to wear one of his renowned fire-breathing suits. Unfortunately, on this occasion, the ramp appears to have descended too soon, leading to Lindemann’s misstep and subsequent fall.

Despite the initial uncertainty around the extent of Lindemann’s fall and the potential injuries he may have sustained, he was soon seen rejoining his bandmates. The band exited the stage via an elevator that ascended to the top, with Lindemann present, waving to the audience in what appeared to be a reassuring gesture.

No serious harm was done.

Darkness On Demand, the Berlin-based project by artists Wagner and Falgalas, who are former members of Dance or Die, is set to release a new 6-track EP titled “Final Way” on June 2, 2023. Pre-orders are now available from Bandcamp including 2 tracks for immediate download.

The “Final Way EP” will be available for digital streaming and download via Alfa Matrix, a Belgium-based label well known for hosting influential musicians from the underground electronic scene since 2001.

Darkness On Demand continues the legacy of merging moody melodic electronics, dark poignant expressive vocals, and upbeat frontal EBM industrial assaults, a style that they have been refining since 2017. They are known for their strong and engaged lyrical focus that bridges science fiction themes with major issues of our current society.

The upcoming EP exemplifies the band’s unique blend of classic dark electro and modern EBM. It showcases their ability to compose highly melodic club electro tracks characterized by addictive sinister soulful melodies, hammering beats, incisive synth sequences, and Wagner’s unique poignant charismatic vocals.

The EP “Final Way” follows the release of the single and video clip for the slow, catchy, and dramatic ballad “Hang On” in collaboration with their neo-folk martial side-project Winterhart. This release comes before their new album “Digital Outcast,” which is announced for a September 2023 release.

Here’s the teaser for the new EP.

Below are the official video clips for the tracks “Hang On (Winterhart remix)” and “Female Grace”.

Out now via the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page is an all new mini-album by the Hungarian dark electro act First Aid 4 Souls. With “Dancing At the Abyss” mini-album, Hungarian electronic music artist István Gazdag introduces techno club influences of his First Aid Tech project into the darker industrial mood of First Aid 4 Souls.

Included are 7 new songs that hang somewhere between techno body music and industrial dance mixed with the distorted or manipulated sampled vocals by Mortum and Vic Willow. All this flavored with a darker industrial touch.

This mini-album is out now via Bandcamp as an immediate download and will follow on all other streaming platforms in the next two weeks.

Veteran Hungarian artist István Gazdag, formerly of Vacuum, has been an active participant in the avant-garde electronic/industrial scene since the late 1980s. He has a diverse range of releases on various labels and has done remarkable remix work for legendary bands such as Coil, Soft Cell, Test. Dept., Cabaret Voltaire, and Einstürzende Neubauten. In recent years, he has collaborated with US-based singer Mortum from Human Vault, who has contributed darker lyrics and a harsher vocal style to their joint project, First Aid 4 Souls.

Earlier this year the project released the 70-track release “This Present Darkness” including four full-length albums (“Trash Cathedral,” “Dark Tunnel,” “Keep This World Empty,” and “I Am The Night”) plus the previously unreleased remix album “Your Social Skill Demised”. The four albums have been re-edited, reconstructed, or newly remastered, supplemented with a variety of previously unreleased bonus material.

Greek dark electro band Siva Six has released a new EP titled “Fight The Machine” through Alfa Matrix. The title track is part of the group’s fifth studio album, “DeathCult” (2021).

The band’s frontman, Z, describes the track as representing Siva Six’s opposition to the Metaworld, corruption, injustice, inequality, prioritization of profit over human life, and the moral decay of society. The lyrics convey the message, “In a world of chaos, be a whore or join the Metawar…!”

Siva Six, consisting of Z (vocals) and U-Ri (keyboard), is joined by seven other bands on the EP: Φωνόπτικoν, Euphrosyne, Infected Sound System, Xentrifuge, Hell:Sector, Asylum Promises, and To Avoid. Each participating band contributes its unique sound, resulting in remixes that take the track in new directions.

A music video has also been released to accompany the EP. The production was a collaboration between Siva Six and Death Mask Productions, with direction and editing by Thanos Kallianiotis.

Siva Six is a Greek dark electro band that originated in the early 2000s. The group primarily consists of two members: Z on vocals and U-Ri on keyboards. Their music is characterized by a fusion of dark electro, industrial, and EBM elements, creating an intense and atmospheric sound.

Siva Six gained recognition in the dark electro scene with their debut album “Rise New Flesh” released in 2005. Over the years, they have released several more albums, including “Black Will” (2006), “Superstition” (2013), “Dawn of Days” (2016), and “DeathCult” (2021). Their music often delves into themes of spirituality, existentialism, and societal issues, creating a thought-provoking experience for their listeners.

In addition to their studio albums, Siva Six has also released numerous EPs and singles, featuring collaborations with various artists in the dark electro scene.

(Photo by Pixel Studio Berlin) Available now as a free download via Bandcamp is the brand new single from Darkness On Demand, “Hang On (Winterhart remix)”. Darkness On Demand is comprised of Berlin-based artists Wagner and Falgalas, who are former members of the cult act Dance Or Die, which was signed to Machinery Records. The duo has now joined the Belgian label Alfa Matrix for their third album, “Digital Outcast”, set for release in September 2023.

First, however, you can enjoy the ballad “Hang On” in a Winterhart remix as a free download on Bandcamp. The single itself is an atypical tune for the band’s more aggressive electro style.

Seba Dolimont from Alfa Matrix describes the song as follows: “Dramatic echoing piano lines and orchestral synth arrangements beautifully leave room for these almost depressive dark and touching vocals that you will quickly sing along with, and that will bring back memories of the claustrophobic moments of the Covid-19 lockdown and all the societal excesses and abuses it generated.”

It is worth noting that Winterhart is the duo’s neo-folk martial side-project.

Darkness On Demand has been active since 2017, offering a mix of moody melodic electronics, dark expressive vocals, and upbeat frontal EBM industrial assaults. Their lyrical focus bridges science fiction themes with major issues of our current society.

You can also watch the video clip filmed for this song.

Genre/Influences: Cold-Wave.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: Spleen +, a new Belgian label and subdivision of the established electronic label Alfa Matrix, brings a fresh focus on Dark-Wave, Post-Punk, and Minimal-Synth music. Their first signing is the iconic Belgian formation The Ultimate Dreamers, who rose to prominence in the 80s and re-emerged during the Covid-19 era. After releasing an album through Wool-E-Discs (“Live Happily While Waiting For Death”), they now present a new work produced by Len Lemaire (Implant), with a limited vinyl edition released by Wave Tension Records.

Content: Echoing Reverie showcases the band’s signature Dark-Wave style, featuring elements reminiscent of The Cure. One of the most surprising songs is a cover of AC/DC’s “Hell’s Bells”. The second part of the album introduces more explicit electronic arrangements, evoking the sound of 1000 Ohm. The final track is a very captivating Electro version/remix of “I Loved You?!” by Implant, reimagined as “Implant Loved You?!”.

Positives: The second half of the album is particularly noteworthy, with standouts such as “Midnight” (a must-listen for The Cure fans) and the Dark/Cold-Wave infused “I Loved You?!”. Though initially hesitant about the Implant cover remix, it ultimately proves to be a fantastic and extended edit perfect for Electro dance floors.

Conclusion: Echoing Reverie is an album of contrasts, with a tentative first half that gives way to a magnificent second half, ultimately delivering a very satisfying listening experience.

Best songs: “Midnight”, “I Loved You?!”, “Implant Loved You?! – Implant Remix”.

Rating: 8½.

Artist: www.the-ultimate-dreamers.com / www.facebook.com/theultimatedreamers

Label: www.facebook.com/spleen.plus

Out today on all streaming and download platforms is “Not Ready For This“, the first new single from the Norwegian synth wave / experimental electronic act Lights A.M. The track is taken from the band’s forthcoming “Stories Without Words vol. 2” album which will be out on June 23rd via Alfa Matrix on CD (in a limited carton sleeve edition) and as download.

“Stories Without Words vol. 2” is the 2nd installment of the band’s instrumental concept album series that takes off where volume 1 ended.

Also out on June 23rd is the re-release on CD (for the first time) of the 2021 album “Stories Without Words vol. 1” which is the debut album of Lights A.M after a couple of digital EP’s. Also originally released on digital format only in July 2022 was “Clouds”, the 2nd album of the project and now also that 2nd release get s a CD version. Both albums get rereleased on physical format in a limited carton sleeve edition.

The Norwegian cinematic ambient electronic project was formed by Erlend Eilertsen of Essence Of Mind. Time to hail Norway and ask Erlend a few questions.

SL: How come “Clouds” was released in between?

EE: I tend to work on both vocal based tracks and instrumentals in parallel actually, so most of the SWW1 tracks were written in the same time as I did the first two vocal based Lights A.M EP’s. The same has to be said about SWW2 and Clouds, but I wanted to finish the vocal based album before the next instrumental. So in a way, they are connected, but the «Stories Without Words» series stands for itself.

SL: Lights A.M is not an instrumental project from the start on, are these two albums intermedium albums or how do you see it?

EE: When I started Lights A.M I did want to make a lot of instrumentals, but wanted vocals as well, so I thought a lot about how to do it actually. My initial idea was to release vocal based 4-5 tracks EP’s and instrumental concept albums, but after SWW1 I changed my mind and wanted to do regular albums as well. So basically, the SWW series is just a way for me to make instrumental concept albums with total freedom to keep my creativity flowing.

SL: You are a big Vangelis fan I think, but at the same time you have incorporated some by now typical Lights A.M sounds in it. How would you define that specific LAM sound compared to that of a Vangelis?

EE: You are correct about that, but I also have a lot of other musical influences for sure 🙂 . To me, the music is not that similar, but I see the connection, mostly for the passion for melodies and the mood in the music. I think the most obvious difference is my incorporation of elements from both shoegaze, kraut and post rock as well as my somewhat darker soundscapes.

SL: What’s in the air in the nordics that you guys come up with such great electronic music?

EE: Hehe, hard to say, but it could be as simple as our surroundings, nature and the big difference between winter and summer up here. The days are short and dark in the winter, but very long and bright in the summer, and maybe our senses pick it up in some way and channel creativity? Or it could be completely random? 🙂 One thing that keeps getting mentioned is the nordic melancholia, so maybe that is the source?

The new single is also available from Bandcamp for immediate download.

Available formats:

• Lights A.M – Stories Without Words vol. 2 CD
• Lights A.M – Stories Without Words vol. 2 (Download)
• Lights A.M – Clouds CD
• Lights A.M – Stories Without Words vol. 1 CD
• Lights A.M 3CD package + A strange play vol.2 – Tribute to The Cure 2CD

Yesterday was an unusual day as we experienced a sudden surge in donations from Bandcamp, more than the typical amount. Upon reviewing our page’s statistics to determine the source, it became apparent that something was happening on Twitter. A swift investigation revealed that Robert Smith from The Cure had tweeted a link to our 2022 charity compilation, “Electronic Resistance – A Darkwave / Post-Punk Compilation From The Ukrainian Underground“.

“Electronic Resistance” (and also the follow-up compilation “Electronic Resistance – Reconstruction”) is a 55-track strong compilation which features darkwave / post​-​punk acts from the Ukrainian underground scene only. Compiled in – extremely – difficult conditions it offers you an insight into the Ukrainian dark underground and also reflects what all of them are going through. It suffices to see some of the titles to understand what we mean.

The compilation features artists from allover Ukraine, from Odesa, Kyiv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Mariupol, etc.. Many of them are right now in the frontline, or help in all kind of services from the fire departement to field hospitals. Others are distributing food, others have been forced out of their destroyed homes.

Stan Przhegodsky (aka Owen Wowson on Twitter), whose band Black Light District is featured on the compilation replied the following to Robert Smith’s initial tweet: “I was 14 years old when I started listening to The Cure. Decades later, you post a compilation that I appeared on (track 17). As a Ukrainian, this is multiple levels of amazing. Thank you very much. Respect & admiration.”

I was 14 years old when I started listening to The Cure.
Decades later, you post a compilation that I appeared on (track 17).
As a Ukrainian, this is multiple levels of amazing.
Thank you very much.
Respect & admiration.

— 🇺🇦 Owen Wowson 🎷 (@technicolorfilm) April 23, 2023

Watching Ukrainian family have their lives destroyed before coming to the U.S. last year, fearful and with little, all things related have my instant support. Heartbreaking artists also lost work and gear. First, partial listen, particularly enjoying tracks 2, 17, 48 so far.

— Ilse (@Ilse_not_that_1) April 23, 2023

Robert Smith is the last in many artists who have been supporting our charity work, earlier on also the cult act Throbbing Gristle pushed decided to give us an online push a while ago.

Electronic Resistance – A Darkwave / Post – Punk Compilation From The Ukrainian Underground 🇺🇦https://t.co/ocpxxKgXfz pic.twitter.com/MvpNFqJS2m

— THROBBING GRISTLE (@ThrobbingGrstle) January 26, 2023

The tweet by The Cure’s frontman has now propelled the compilation back into the bestselling industrial music charts on Bandcamp on spot 3. As you can see it is being joined by Alfa Matrix’s The Cure tribute releases “A Strange Play – Tribute to The Cure“ and “A Strange Play (Vol. 2) – Tribute to The Cure“.

Below is said compilation and it’s follow-up, the recently released “Electronic Resistance – Reconstruction”.

In February, the Belgian electro / industrial label Alfa Matrix launched the rather provocative “Suicidal (Break The Cycle)” single as a free song via Bandcamp. The song was accompanied by a video clip which already amassed over 16,000 views on YouTube.

Freakangel, in collaboration with Alfa Matrix, is set to release an extended digital EP version of this dark song. They invite you to participate in their remix contest, with the top 3 remixes being featured on the new EP.

You can download the remix kit and full lyrics on Dropbox.

Good to know:

• Submit your final remix (16-bit WAV file) unmastered to dmitry@freakangel.net
• Submission deadline: 28th May 2023
• The band and their label will reveal the 3 winners in June.

Listen to the song below.

Freakangel is an Estonian electronic-industrial-rock project. It was established in late 2009 by D. Darling as a side project to Suicidal Romance.

The Australian dark electro pair Avarice In Audio, comprised of Gerry Hawkins and Lawrie, returns with an enticing new 4-track EP titled “War Tanz”. “War Tanz” is quite a powerful track and one of my personal favorites on the band’s last album “Our Idols Are Filth”.

“War Tanz” serves as the second single from their recently launched 5th album, “Our Idols Are Filth”. Alongside the title track, the EP features three additional tracks, including a remix by Avarice In Audio’s own Studio-X, a rendition by Columbia’s Alien:Nation, and an exclusive bonus track called “Downer Grooves”.

The single is now available for download on Bandcamp.

Here’s the video for “War Tanz”.

Formed in early 2013 the project has since released a string of albums and EPs.

Albums:

• Shine & Burn – 2014
• Apollo & Dionysus – 2016
• No Punishment: No Paradise – 2018
• From The Rib Of Adam – 2020
• Our Idols Are Filth – 2022

Singles & EPs:

• Frostbite – 2014
• World Without Song – 2015
• Bleed As One – 2015
• The Cassandra Complex – 2015
• Anthracite Nights – 2016
• Crystal Tears – 2016
• Lie To Me – 2017
• Wolves At The Door – 2018
• Our Cold Hands – 2018
• Trojan Horse – 2020
• I Pray (Feat. Assemblage 23) – 2021
• The Language Of Violence – 2022
• War Tanz – 2023

Aesthetische, the EBM/electro band from Brazil founded by former members of Aghast View & Biopsy, is back with a brand new EP: “Boiling Over”.

On this new EP, the Aesthetische duo (aka Fab Viscardi and Gui Pires) offer the follow-up to 2022’s full-length “Rvprty”. The new EP contains 5 tracks, with 3 versions of the title track – “Boiling Over” – including a smashing (!) remix by label mate Sebastian Komor and two other versions executed by Aesthetische themselves.

The title track can be described as a return to the roots of EBM, but with a range of modern elements mixed in. To complete the 5-track piece, you will find two other tracks – “Dopamine Hyperdrive” – a dark and moody technological piece, and “Final Flow” – an instrumental piece designed to fill club floors.

Not sure what to expect? Fabrício Viscardi explained the sound of the band a few months ago in an interview: “Aesthetische definitely has solid influences from Aghast View and Biopsy, but it is more polished and with influences from Trance and Techno too.” Add to that an exquisite production.

Personally, I’d describe their sound as a very clubby blend of Front 242’s “Front By Front” era mixed with catchy trance elements. A must-have for fans of Front 242, Front Line Assembly, and similar bands, especially if you are into a superior production approach.

Here’s the new EP “Boiling over”.

Signed to the renowned Belgian Alfa Matrix label, the duo draws on their rich history in the EBM and electro scenes. As a result, they have managed to forge a distinctive sound that sets them apart from their peers, all while staying true to their roots. With each release, the band continues to push the boundaries of the EBM and electro genres.

Starting in 2012, they made a powerful entrance with their debut album, “Powerswitch [LTDPWR]”. The following year, they expanded their sonic horizons with the release of the “Nachtbrenner EP” and “Statement / Amplitude Zero EP”, further showcasing their versatility. Building on this momentum, the band released the impressive “HybridCore” album in 2014, followed by the “Colder Lights EP” later that year. They continued to push their creative limits, delivering the mesmerising “Cold Is Clean EP” and “Dirt And Basslines EP” in 2015. Their 2016 release, “We Follow Blindly EP”, proved that they were far from slowing down.

Collaborating with Noemi Aurora in 2017, they introduced the appealing “In My Aurora EP” to their growing discography. The band then continued work on their 2019 album, “Co3xist3ns3”, followed by the “MMXX EP” in 2020. Entering the new decade, they didn’t miss a beat, releasing the excellent “Overflow EP” in 2021. Most recently, in 2022, the band has treated fans to yet another album, “Rvprty”, solidifying their place in the EBM/electro scene as innovative trailblazers who consistently deliver enjoyable and engaging music. They ended the year with a splendid remix of “Ukraina” from the charity EP with the same name, released via Side-Line’s own Bandcamp page.

Discography:

• Powerswitch [LTDPWR] (Deluxe edition) (2012)
• Nachtbrenner EP (2013)
• Statement / Amplitude Zero EP (2013)
• HybridCore (Deluxe edition) (2014)
• Colder Lights EP (2014)
• Cold Is Clean EP (2015)
• Dirt And Basslines EP (2015)
• We Follow Blindly EP (2016)
• In My Aurora EP (2017)
• Co3xist3ns3 (Deluxe edition) (2019)
• MMXX EP (2020)
• Overflow EP (2021)
• Rvprty (Deluxe edition) (2022)
• Boiling Over EP (2023)

The Swedish old school EBM act ELM is back with a second EP from the well-received, intense EBM album “Penetrator”. Expect powerful bass lines, a compelling drive, and commanding vocals and lyrics. Oldschool EBM like we like it.

The EP is available on Bandcamp from today on with other platforms to follow in the future.

The EP boasts a total of seven tracks, including remixes of the title track by J Wølf (Mildreda, Mildred in Oblivion, Your Life on Hold, Diskonnekted) and the iconic Swedish electronic act System. You’ll also find alternative dance floor mixes of “Excuses Excuses” and “Ha-Ha-Ha-Begär,” as well as the exclusive, heavy-hitting, DAF-inspired new track titled “For L…”.

Highly recommended for fans of early Nitzer Ebb, DAF, and Front 242.

Complete discography:

• Hardline (Deluxe edition) (2016)
• Edge EP (2016)
• Wapenrustning EP (2017)
• Kampftrinker EP (2017)
• Extreme Unspoken Tension (X.U.T. Remixed) EP (2019)
• Death Of The North EP (2019)
• Penetrator (Deluxe edition) (2022)
• Steel Hope EP (2022)
• Vessel Of Violence EP (2023)

Why do journalists often ask silly questions, particularly in the entertainment industry? It’s a question that frequently arises after watching TV or radio shows where artists are invited to discuss a new album or project.

Two videos that are spreading fast on social media and which feature The Cure as the interviewees perfectly exemplify this issue. After watching these clips, it’s hard not to question the intellectual aptitude of some journalists to be very honest.

There are a few reasons why journalists might ask silly questions. Sometimes, they may lack the necessary knowledge or understanding of the topic. However, this is not usually the case. More often, they ask these questions to capture the response on tape, film, or in writing. But this approach essentially reflects lazy journalism. Instead, they could ask a question that delves deeper into the subject matter, providing the information that people genuinely want. In short, journalists should strive for thought-provoking and insightful questions, rather than resorting to superficial inquiries that may ultimately leave both the artist and the audience unsatisfied.

These two cringe-worthy moments occurred during interviews with The Cure, and fortunately, we can enjoy them for their sheer absurdity. Which reminds us of this nice Depeche Mode line: “Is stupidity the best or simply the easiest?”

In the first video, The Cure is confronted by a journalist who bizarrely starts to mimic the sounds of their songs. The second video captures the band being ‘interviewed’ during their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. It becomes painfully obvious that the band members were far less excited about their induction than their overly enthusiastic interviewer, Carrie Keagan.

Metroland’s Passenger S his first solo album, “The Colour Temperature” (2020), and its companion remix album “The Cubic Temperature”, were extremely well received by the electronic music scene. Three years later 808 Dot Pop returns with three albums in one on Alfa Matrix.

Both “AM 1350” and “FM 88.2” are available only on compact disc while “MW 720” is available as a download only. The two CD albums are complementary conceptual releases and are also produced and mixed like a broadcasting where all songs float into each others to guarantee the ultimate radiophonic experience. The download album has seperate tracks that stand on their own.

The project is driven by his passion for vintage sounds and draws inspiration from renowned acts such as Orbital, Komputer and the pioneers of Kraftwerk. The sound is characterized by warm sequences, melodic synth layers, and robotic vocoders. The entire auditory experience is enhanced with the addition of analog drums, paying homage to a legendary drum machine.

Passenger S: “The idea for a pop radio show initially started when I asked (and also received) permission from OMD’s Andy McCluskey in person to cover their track ‘Radio Waves’. However, since the original was so darn good, the decision was soon taken to drop the cover idea. Still the interest to take a deeper dive into the matter of radio waves remained. A further push by Gary Hunter (Kraftman), who co-wrote on several songs, did finally lead to the birth of a new concept around the 1920’s crystal radio and the inventions of Guglielmo Marconi, who paved way for many things in our modern era.”

Guest singer on the release is Lis van den Akker who you can hear on the titles “Marconi”, “The Detector” and “Distant Voices”.

You can check the download only version of “MW 720” below.

Here’s the official videoclip for “Marconi”.

2 new singles available as well

You can also downbload 2 new singles: “FM 101.4” and “AM 685”. “FM101.4” and “AM 685”.

The 3-track EP “FM 101.4” holds the single version of “Marconi” (aptly entitled ‘on the radio’) backed with the song “The Detector”, which also features the voice of Lis Van Den Akker. The 4-track maxi EP “AM 685” holds two extended versions, a remix with a clear wink to Passenger S and his love for a particular 80s band and his favourite 12inch (one of their 1983 songs was the very start of the entire concept), and an exclusive 3rd song entitled “Voices”, all referencing to the album’s concept.

Check out the singles below. They are available for immediate download via Bandcamp.

Metroland’s latest album, “0,” is now available on CD, double blue vinyl, and for download. During the pre-sale, those who pre-ordered the double vinyl received a complimentary “X” album CD. This exclusive 75-minute anniversary release features five mega mixes, each representing one of their five studio albums and highlighting the vintage synth music of Belgium.

The “X” album is now solely available as an independent album at the standard album price, on CD via the Alfa Matrix webstore and as a download via Bandcamp.

Both the vinyl and CD versions of “0” contain 12 tracks each, with Metroland making a conscious effort to differentiate them through subtly distinct artwork and varied track listings, showcasing that they are not just an ordinary computer pop band.

About Metroland

Metroland, a Belgian electronic duo, is known for their unique blend of minimalistic, melodic synthpop and a passion for transportation and urban themes. Formed in 2012, the duo consists of Passenger A and Passenger S, who have managed to make a name for themselves in the electronic music scene with their meticulously crafted soundscapes and engaging live performances.

Passenger A, a talented keyboardist and sound designer, and Passenger S, a skilled programmer and composer, met in the late 1990s while working at a local record store. Bonding over their shared love for electronic music pioneers like Kraftwerk, OMD, and Depeche Mode, they began to collaborate on music projects. This collaboration eventually led to the formation of Metroland.

Metroland’s debut album, “Mind The Gap,” released in 2012, received critical acclaim and solidified the duo’s reputation as a noteworthy electronic act. The album’s concept centered on urban living and public transportation, featuring tracks like “Enjoying the View” and “Inner City Transport,” which demonstrated the duo’s talent for crafting immersive, atmospheric soundscapes that encapsulate modern city life. In our review of “Mind The Gap,” we said: “Metroland’s music flawlessly merges catchy melodies with inventive sound design, channeling the essence of classic electronic acts while forging a fresh and contemporary soundscape.”

In 2015, Metroland unveiled their second album, “Triadic Ballet.” Drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, this album delved into a more experimental and artistic realm, examining the confluence of art, design, and technology. Songs like “Zeppelin” and “Design” displayed the duo’s dedication to pushing electronic music boundaries while remaining true to their origins. The Electricity Club commented on “Triadic Ballet”: “Metroland demonstrates their capacity to evolve and innovate, while maintaining their roots, making this album a must-listen for electronic music enthusiasts.”

“Things Will Never Sound the Same Again,” Metroland’s third album, was released in 2016 as a homage to the late Louis Zachert, a dear friend and mentor of the duo. The album showcased a deeper, more introspective facet of Metroland, with tracks like “Under the Roof” and “Cube” delving into themes of loss and memory. Release Magazine remarked: “Metroland’s ‘Things Will Never Sound the Same Again’ is a poignant tribute to their friend, revealing an emotional depth and introspection seldom witnessed in electronic music.”

In 2018, Metroland returned with “Men in a Frame,” an album inspired by the realm of photography. Collaborating with various photographers, Metroland crafted a one-of-a-kind audio-visual experience, pairing each song with a specific photograph. Tracks like “Shades of Pale” and “Exhibition” underscored the duo’s prowess in evoking vivid visual imagery through their music. Peek-A-Boo Magazine praised the album: “The unparalleled audio-visual experience of ‘Men in a Frame’ cements Metroland’s position as an inventive and groundbreaking electronic duo.”

“Echoing Reverie” is the name of the brand new studio album from the Belgian post-punk / cold wave quartet The Ultimate Dreamers out now via the Alfa Matrix sub label Spleen+ on CD and as a download. The release comes after the release of the “Polarized EP”.

Active since the mid-80’s the band resurrected in a new line-up during the COVID lock-down, releasing a selection of old demos on the “Live Happily While Waiting For Death” CD and vinyl in 2021 and re-distributed via Spleen+ now as well.

Now signed to Brussels-based label Spleen+ (cold wave/minimal synth division of the Alfa Matrix label group), the band got its newest album produced by Len Lemeire (Implant, 32CRASH, Anne Clark, …). Also included on the album is the band’s interpretation of AC/DC’s classic “Hell’s Bells” as well as the bonus club remix of “I Loved You!?” by Implant.

The album is also be available as a limited vinyl edition, released by Wave Tension Records, with a slightly different track listing.

You can check the full release below.

And here is the previously released “Polarized EP”.

Official video clips on YouTube:

Early December 2022, Komor Kommando, the industrial/EBM solo-project of Sebastian Komor (Icon Of Coil, Zombie Girl, Bruderschaft), released an all new 8-track EP. The EP came 9 years after his last release, the “Hail the rhythm” EP. This new EP, “One By One”, blends old and new, incorporating classic EBM vibes with a modern EDM inspired production.

The title song “One By One” features guest female vocals by Azul Far from The True UnioN. The song also comes in a remix by Brute Opposition and by Sebastian Komor himself who gave it a retro synth twist in its “xenomorph remix” version. Next to “One By One” the EP holds 2 other brand new tracks: “Get Off The X” and the instrumental “Brahmua”. “Get Off The X” was remixed as well, by C-Lekktor, Anthony (H) And Clockwork Echo.

One of the best modern EBM acts is back alive and kicking! So, I took my mobile and videocalled Sebastian.

SL: It’s good to have you back again with Komor Kommando. How does it feel after such a long break?

Seb: Thank you. It honestly doesn’t feel like a break as I have constantly been writing and producing music. Upon the release of One By One, it dawned on me it has been 9 years. Crazy how time flies.

SL: How different is it for you from producing other artists or making remixes for other bands?

Seb: It’s more personal. I get to do what I want and how I want it and explore the moment. It’s a great release of creativity, unbound by any set of ideas or “rules”. When I produce or remix for others, I have a different approach. One of course is giving the client the best I can with what I have to work with. I see it as an honor people come to me to help them out, no matter the level of involvement. Music unites.

SL: How much did your Komor Kommando sound evolve since the previous EP?

Seb: The same approach really. With new tools and skills to play with. My musical taste is all over the place. I like to not be bound by a genre or what a genre is supposed to sound like. Attitude and grit are always present.

SL: Is there any specific message you want to give behind this new EP release and these new songs?

Seb: There is definitely a theme hiding in there. Universal and personal at the same time.

SL: You also took us by surprise with these female guest vocals on “One By One”. Tell us more about this collaboration with The True Union?

Seb: I wanted more vocals on the new KK material. As Azul reached out to me regarding doing some mixing and co-production on some of her new material, I was exposed to her voice. Instantly I had to ask Azul if she was into doing vocals on this at the time, instrumental song. With the intent of having vocals in the song. Thankfully she was into it and the vocals you hear on the release are the original take I was sent. Needless to say, I was blown out of the chair. Her voice is ridiculously good.

SL: Can we expect more from you later this year? An album maybe? More collabs? Anything you want to reveal yet?

Seb: A new EP is being worked on as we speak. I was hoping to be done with it by March, however, due to some other projects needing my attention it has been pushed back a bit. However, it’s coming. Stand by!

The American (Denver-Colorado) female fronted industrial metal act The True Union, aka Azul Far, released the “Love Me Now” mini-album/EP in December last year. The new EP, released on the Belgian label Alfa Matrix , sees front woman Azul Far joined by producer Sebastian Komor and German metal producer Siggi Bemm and Travis Bacon who produced “Love Me Now”.

On the EP we also find a guest appearance of Jamie Cronander’s (Combichrist live guitarist) who appears on the track “Karma”. The EP also features a unique collaboration between The True Union (as guest vocalist) and her producer Sebastian Komor under the Komor Kommando moniker for the track “One By One”, which equally appeared on the Komor Kommando EP “One By One”. The EP also furthermore holds reworks by Alfa Matrix label mates Alien Vampires, Aesthetische and Acylum.

Time to sit around the table with Azul Far…

SL: Your “Love me now (not)” is surprising in, many ways I find! First of all by that intense diversity of sound displayed across these 9 tracks?

AF: I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying the EP! I like to create the music organically. The songs on this EP have been created across the last few years while I was going through different life cycles and experiences. I think those life experiences reflected in the music and made the EP sound more dynamic. But although the songs might seem to be different genre or somewhat different from one another, they all have an order amongst the chaos. The music is just me. I let the music speak for itself. I don’t have categories. I just do what I do because I enjoy doing it and sharing it with the world.

SL: But also surprising for the multiple collaborations featured!? Tell us more about these?

AF: I have met a lot of great people in the last few years. It came down to networking and making new friendships during our shows and through the internet, especially from 2018-2020. People that heard the demos or saw us live really believed in the band. I am forever thankful for their support. For example, Attila (Mayhem) recommended me to producer/musician Travis Bacon. He polished the sound of the band, producing several tracks that ended at the ears of a few record labels. Shortly after, I got signed with Alfa Matrix. Once signed, I started talking with Sebastian Komor who’s also signed with the label. I have always enjoyed his work and really like the music he’s done (Komor Kommando, Zombie Girl, Icon of Coil +). He also produced a few tracks and we even did the “One By One” collab which has been one of the favorites for sure. I also had the opportunity to work with legendary Siggi Bemm. I had him on my radar ever since the release of “Animatronic” from The Kovenant. I recall being a very young teenager back then and thought to myself “one day I’m going to work with him!”. Years later…it happened. Crazy how life works! Siggi produced and recorded the drums for “Blinded”.These are the only live drums recorded in the EP. But I am happy to announce that i’ll have another special guest record the drums for an upcoming release. A very special guest and a friend for years. This guy’s name is Jan Axel Blomberg (AKA Hellhammer). Have you heard about this guy? 😉 hehe.

I also had the pleasure to have Jamie Cronander record the guitars for a few tracks. I met Jamie when we joined a regional tour with Psyclon Nine. Jamie’s band, Striplicker touring along as well. I had a blast watching his band perform live every night and we became really good friends. He was always very supportive and when the time came, he recorded some sick guitars for me. He’s a coveted motherf*cker who is now playing with Combichrist. I am very fortunate to have him as a special guest.

SL: You also shot a stunning video clip for “love me now”? I have the impression you are a multi-talented artist? How important is it for you to do all this on your own?

AF: Doing everything myself has been out of necessity and not by choice. I have adapted to my environment and have learned a lot of magic tricks along the way. Is it ideal? No, but sometimes it is. Working on everything by yourself gives you full control but it can also slow down the creative process. It can be very fulfilling but it can also be aggravating and you can end up feeling like you’ve “hit a wall”. The quote “If you want something done, do it yourself” comes to mind. But as time goes by I have tried to have more people involved in the music process and listen to their input. In particular for the video, I had my best friend invest a lot of her time and energy into this project. This took months of work, practice and lots of trial and error. If it wasn’t because of her, I would have not been able to make this happen. Doing things alone can be fun, but as you grow, I think it’s best to ask for as much input as possible from people that you trust.

SL: Can we expect The True Union on stage soon with these new songs?

AF: Live shows are on my radar but nothing set in stone yet. I think there will be a right time and place to do this. At the moment, I am focusing on new music and my personal life. Believe it or not playing live shows are mostly terrifying for me. They can also be fun sometimes and of course you get the exposure and ability to network.

But you have to consider there is a lot of planning and financial investment involved. I’m sure l’ll know if/when the time is right. For now it’s free time in the studio…

SL: What else can we still expect from you this year?

AF: A full album! I will get into details about the upcoming release with the label soon. We don’t have a set date yet but I’m sure we’ll let you know when this happens. We are also working on the last few details to release a couple of collaboration tracks I did for other artists. Be sure to check us out periodically because you never know ;).

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Here’s the excellent video clip for “Love Me Now”.

The Acylum duo strikes back with the “Kalashnikov” EP on Bandcamp which – obviously – refers to the terrible weapon Michail Timofejewitsch Kalashnikov brought the world, namely the AK-47.

Pedro Engels from Acylum explains: “This weapon has been making hundreds of thousands of victims and with the renewed outbreak of war in Europe since 2022 more victims keep falling day after day… With this EP we question whether it’s time to celebrate the creator or blame human’s never-ending stupidity. When shall we ever learn from our mistakes?”

With this move Acylum continues to introduce political topics in their work. Acylum recently also remixed the single “Ukraina” by Iwan Lovynsky & KingSMarine which Side-Line magazine released past December. All proceeds from that single go to Ukrainian aid.

The 7-track EP “Kalashnikov” holds remixes from :Wumpscut:, Wajidan, 13Th Angel, Elektrostaub and Miseria Ultima. You can check it and download it below. A straight in your face EP.

“This Present Darkness” – a 70-track strong download on Bandcamp – retraces some 9 years of collaboration between the Hungarian electronic industrial artist István Gazdag and the US-based singer Mortum (Human Vault) under the First Aid 4 Souls flag.

Included are the 4 full length albums “Trash Cathedral”, “Dark Tunnel”, “Keep This World Empty” and “I Am The Night” plus the so far unreleased remix album “Your Social Skill Demised”. That latter serves as perfect appetizer for what comes next so the band’s label Alfa Matrix says.

The 4 full length albums come in a fully re-edited & reconstructed (“rework”) versions and/or newly remastered audio packs with a bunch of previously unreleased bonus material to top it all.

On February 19th Depeche Mode performed live during a “Memento Mori” promo gig in Munich. During the live set the band performed several new songs from the new 12-track album “Memento Mori” album . A recording popped up on YouTube now. This is not an official live recording, but it will give you an idea what to expect. Included in this set are also several false starts, which for die-hard fans will be interesting to see as well.

Setlist:

1. 00:00 Intro
2. 03:22 Ghosts Again
3. 07:38 Wagging Tongue (False Start)
4. 08:58 Wagging Tongue
5. 12:44 My Favourite Stranger (False Start)
6. 14:17 My Favourite Stranger
7. 18:39 Precious
8. 24:06 Personal Jesus

“Memento Mori”is the upcoming fifteenth studio album by Depeche Mode set to be released on 24 March 2023, through Columbia and Mute. The album was produced by James Ford and Marta Salogni. It was preceded by the single “Ghosts Again” and will be the first Depeche Mode studio album to be released after the death of co-founder and keyboardist Andy Fletcher on 26 May 2022. The album will be promoted by the Memento Mori tour.

On 11 February 2023, the band debuted “Ghosts Again” live in Sanremo, Italy followed by a live version of the track on The Late Show. On 14 February 2023, “Wagging Tongue” was debuted live in La Plaine-Saint-Denis, France.

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Popular on Bandcamp now

Mid 2022 Belgium’s minimal electro duo Metroland started the countdown with 2 different color 12inch vinyl versions of “4″, a 1st EP in a countdown (3, 2, 1…) series towards a new conceptual album, aptly called after the digit “0”. That new album will be released on March 25th via the Belgian label Alfa Matrix.

The new album will be out as download (available now as pre-order via Bandcamp), on CD and on solid blue vinyl (both versions are available now in pre-order via Alfa Matrix’ webstore). All formats will carry 12 tracks. Note that the pre-order of the vinyl includes the free “X” album CD as a bonus. This CD offers a a 75 minutes one-off, neatly consolidated into 5 mega mixes, each presenting one of their 5 studio albums. Note that that bonus CD is also available in a exclusive pre-order Metroland / 808 Dot Pop 4CD pack.

But before this album is being released, you can enjoy the all new singles “1.0” and “1.1”. As always with Metroland and their recurrent conceptual artistic approach, this EP is out simultaneously in two different versions each holding exclusive edits and remixes.

You can check the previous singles below (with “4.0” being available on two different vinyls, a transparent chrystal vinyl version and a red vinyl version).

After their recently released new EP “Witch Heart Apparition”, the Finnish dark elektro duo Miseria Ultima (Aleksi Martikainen on vocals and Kimmo Huhtala on synths) now strikes back with their 3rd studio album on their new label Alfa Matrix.

The band’s trademark sound is clearly present again, so you can expect cold melancholic atmospheres and strong melodies with harsh aggressive vocals and dark elektro assaults. “In Colors of Void” features 11 songs dealing with mortality and tragic death and how we are facing grief and such sudden loss.

Our reviewer was more that raving about the new album when he wrote this: “Miseria Ultima confirms their strong potential revealed at previous works and will be a true revelation for Dark-Electro heads.”

Time we hailed Finland to meet up with Aleksi Martikainen (vocals) for a talk.

SL: Tell us more about the concept of your new album? 

M: In our album “In Colors of Void” the main concept is about the feelings we go through when facing different kind of tragedies. Even the pains and tragedies have their own colors and shades. The whole concept is about these shades and facing every song reflects it differently. 

SL: How would you describe your music on the new album to somebody who does not know you yet or only knows previous material?

M: We think dark and cold, with warm and aggressive synths are the main keys. What you can wait from our music are the cold machines, bursting angry and cold melodies, combined to lyrics, which take a more philosophical approach towards different kind of things. Especially on all our three albums, we think that in our latest album we have gone forward, towards even more melodic and aggressive style, but keeping the EBM and dark electro things almost the same.

SL: Is there any link to find between your icy music style and your country of origin, Finland? 

M: Yes, of course. We think that it is our main concept as a band. We both were born and have been living in the north of Finland, where the winters tend to get cold and dark. You can see the sunlight only for a while in winter, but of course there are some months that the days carry no light. It has a kind of an artistic link, when you walk around in the winter night or day, in snowstorm or in a calm day, taking the atmospheres in and think about nature how cruel and beautiful it is at the same time. This sometimes inspires our music very much. Silence and nature. We think that for both of us, we understand the north and arctic coldness and of course the summers there, things like these are very inspirational. You see death and life, tragedy and joy in every season. The whole process for us is like sparking a fire into self-consciousness.

SL: Atmospheres also characterise much your songs. Do you have any cinematic approach before writing a new song? Tell us more how are you both working in studio together? 

M. We both see music as pictures and atmospheres. We are kind of an “visual people”. Usually, when Kimmo sends Aleksi a song, Aleksi has a moment to reflect a proper lyrics and arrangements to it, which he has been written. We usually both do our things and then we head to the studio and make some production together, giving ideas, processing the whole thing. And then we advance to record phase, what we have “idealized”. 

SL: I have the impression you have quite diverse influences? 

M: Haha, yes! We both were in a doom-metal band in a past also did some together under a different project. We think that reflects and influences us a lot, especially doom-metal bands like Funeral and Skepticism have been very inspiring for us. But of course there are many more, we listen to different kinds of music, from metal to rap to classical to atmospheric soundtrack music and from industrial to aggrotech. We think all the music we listen to are affecting our style, taking influences from everything which sounds awesome. 

SL: What’s next for Miseria Ultima?

M: There will be shows for us in 2023 and we actually are making new songs as we speak. But the priority are the shows and then we get back on track of making new songs and melodies. Sometimes, the inspiration comes ablaze, sometimes, it takes some time. 

The Estonian electro-industrial act Freakangel – brainchild of D. Darling – returns with an unexpected new single and video clip called “Suicidal (Break The Cycle)” which is available for free download from the Alfa Matrix Bandcamp page.

The track is the first brand new song since the release of the band’s 4th studio album “The Ghost Became” back in 2017. The one-track single goes hand in hand with a video clip which you can see below.

The Bandcamp version of the single includes an exclusive bonus booklet with lyrics and poster, plus the full uncensored video clip.

And here is the censored version on YouTube.

The post-punk scene has a new recordlabel with Alfa Matrix launching a sublabel created to accomodate this specific genre and its varieties including coldwave or even minimal synth. Called Spleen+ you can already find 2 bands signed to it, the Belgian post-punk act The Ultimate Dreamers, who launched their label debut with the EP “Polarized”, and the Italian new wave act ImJudas who presents 2 new EPs, “People Of The Blame” and “So Untrue”.

We sat together with Seba Dolimont who is the A&R behind Spleen+ (and Alfa Matrix).

SL: Congratulations Seba with the new endeavour. Why start a side label next to Alfa Matrix?

SD: Since 2001, Alfa Matrix has been showing a quite eclectic approach of our music repertoire and label artist roster. We release EBM music from FRONT 242, POUPPEE FABRIKK, ELM or DIE ROBO SAPIENS, but also harsh dark elektro with ALIEN VAMPIRES, ACYLUM or C-LEKKTOR, minimal vintage synth with METROLAND, future pop with REICHSFEIND, NEUROACTIVE, MONDTRÄUME, BRUDERSCHAFT… Modern avantgarde electro with RECOIL, IMPLANT, KOMOR KOMMANDO, PSY’AVIAH or yet CUBIC! But also without forgetting our darker acts merging industrial with goth darkwave guitars like STAR INDUSTRY, HELALYN FLOWERS or FREAKANGEL.

We have been toying with this idea for this Spleen+ division for many months. It’s not something that comes out on the spur of the moment, you need to prepare such additional activity within our whole Alfa Matrix Label Group concept. We have been following and enjoying this continuous resurgence of the cold wave / post punk / minimal synth scene for some time. We also noticed that new sub-scene walls started emerging from the ground where the fans do not look much over the walls. Dedicated events and festivals get organised. Dedicated blogs, playlists, etc. start gathering more and more dark souls… So the idea from our side is to simply contribute to this movement offering it some structured and more targeted approach cos there are so many talented artists out there in need of support in their DIY efforts. This focused approach should allow us better supporting artists playing this kind of sound and reaching out to a boiling sub-scene, enlarging our scope of activities and bringing complementary fanbases together because eclecticism remains a core value for our work… And this without bringing us too far away from our roots cos the label team is made of 3 friends born in the early 70’s who were fed on JOY DIVISION, THE CURE, SIOUXSIE, SISTERS OF MERCY and other GHOST DANCE, X-MAL DEUTSCHLAND and SKELETAL FAMILY and not only on 80’s synth pop and the Belgian Electronic Body Music movement!

SL: What (new) signings can we expect?

SD: The very active Belgian act THE ULTIMATE DREAMERS is our first new signing in the genre (see the number of concerts they already played this year only! They are amazing! Their new album comes out in March…) while some current Alfa Matrix artists are potential candidates for a next release on Spleen+ including IMJUDAS or yet STAR INDUSTRY for example. Together with Frédéric Cotton (known for decades of activities as concert & party promotor in Brussels behind the famous “Fantastique Nights” but also as lead singer of THE ULTIMATE DREAMERS) we will also release this year a mega compilation devoted to the cold wave/post punk genre showing how prolific this scene can be anno 2023! We are working on it as we speak…

Since the announcement of this new label division, I am also quite happy and positively surprised by the number of proactive connections we got from very great bands who showed interest in working with us. That’s really exciting. Of course some of them are cool Belgian bands, some being living legends, cos it’s always easier collaborating with a local label speaking your language, but we are also in contact with artists from the UK, Italy, South America, etc. Nothing I want to reveal yet, but we will do this on due time. Keep an eye on our pages at https://www.facebook.com/spleen.plus and https://spleenplus.bandcamp.com . A website will follow soon as well.

SL: Will this also mean extra vinyl releases?

SD: The vinyl format is part of the equation on today’s music market. A portion of music fans who are collecting physical products do prefer the vinyl format but not all of them. So already with Alfa Matrix we have been issuing vinyls for some time for selected bands with own fanclubs and/or who are touring a lot. The vinyl format is also very appropriate to the cold wave/post punk genre that is uniting past, present and future. So my answer is a big YES. Absolutely!

Below are the first releases from the brand new label:

After releasing several conceptual digital EPs, Swedish minimalistic electro pop act Elektroklänge finally has released the debut album, “Komposituation”. The release is available on CD and as download.

Conceptually the album is inspired by the German painter, poet and audio-visual artist Emil Schult (also known for his collaboration in the early 70’s with Kraftwerk founders Ralf Hütter and Florian Schneider).

On the debut album the Swedish project offers instrumental to more experimental tracks while the vocals on other tracks were programmed into a replica of a Robovox or were AI generated.

The digital version of the album on Bandcamp goes hand in hand with an exclusive digital artbook companion filled with original AI generated art and lyrics.

Here are the previous EPs from the project.

After their recently released new EP “Witch Heart Apparition”, the Finnish dark elektro duo Miseria Ultima (Aleksi Martikainen on vocals and Kimmo Huhtala on synths) now strikes back with their 3rd studio album on their new label Alfa Matrix.

The band’s trademark sound is clearly present again, so you can expect cold melancholic atmospheres and strong melodies with harsh aggressive vocals and dark elektro assaults. “In Colors of Void” will feature 11 songs dealing with mortality and tragic death and how we are facing grief and such sudden loss.

“It is all about chaos theory, choices, and causality – and also about psychic vampirism…”, says Aleksi Martikainen. “In songs like ‘Shutter’ and ‘Devoid Of Coloration’, I write about the sudden decay of mind after manipulation and also about the total death of self-consciousness…”

You can check the full album below. The release is also out on CD, next to the download version on Bandcamp.

Also check out the below videos including the official video clip for “Witch Heart Apparition” and one for “Caressing The Pale” in a Siva Six remix.

In order to raise extra funds for our Ukrainian charity cause at Side-Line, we have released the single “Ukraina” which acts as a bridge between the two “Electronic Resistance” compilations released by Side-Line. This 5-track single – available right now for free download via Bandcamp – features the original track “Ukraina” by Iwan Lovynsky & KingSMarine augmented with 4 remixes by Aesthetische, Acylum, Kant Kino and Cubic who each bring their own sound in the mix.

Our chief editor Bernard Van Isacker explains: “The track perfectly explains what the people in Ukraine are going through, their anxieties, their anger. This is Ukraine as people live it today. You could call it an anthem which the other 4 remixers have personalized to their own taste.”

The single comes right after the release of the free “Electronic Resistance – Reconstruction” charity compilation and a new line of EBM Day T-shirts (which also include a free download of this compilation”).

EBM Day T-shirts

Via a special EBM Day T-shirt line we also decided to both remember Ukraine’s resistance and EBM-day in one, all revenue from this T-shirt line will go to Ukrainian aid.

On top we have produced special handmade steel medaillons, limited to 180 copies, representing the electronic resistance logo. You can use it as an amulet, or as a keychain. It is sold in combination with the EBM-day T-shirt (including an Electronic Resistance patch).

Shipping takes places end of December so you are sure to get your merchandise before the 24th of February. We do advise to place your order as soon as possible as the post is not always so fast.

Out now is an all new 8-track EO by the Belgian dark electro pop act Psy’Aviah. On this new EP Yves Schelpe has put his live vocalist (and partner in crime for the last few albums) Marieke Lightband in the spotlight.

“My Secret” was co-written with Lightband and describes the perception duality she herself experienced when she suffered from a burnout and where the girl she pretended to be in front of others had nothing to do with the “real her” in the bathroom mirror.

“We all have our secrets and there is always a point in time we need and want to share them,” she says.

The track is originally taken from the “Bittersweet” album. Besides the exclusive radio edit of the song, the EP features additional exclusive bonus remixes by Rob Dust, Entrzelle, Junksista, Digital Factor and Rool. The EP is at the moment exclusively available via Bandcamp with other platforms to follow in the next two weeks.

Check the official music video for “My Secrets”.

The Belgian electronica act Metroland is a step closer to their upcoming album “0” now that they have released yet another double EP: “2​.​0” and “2​.​1”. The double EP comes after both 12-inch vinyl versions of “4” and “3” (“Modularity”).

This 3rd release holds the single “Davos” for which also a video has been released which you can see below. “Davos” reveals a more harsh sound side compared with many other tunes from the Belgian duo, bashing beats accompanied with a dry hitting bass.

Next to the title song, each member, ‘passenger’ as they say, reshaped “Davos” into their very own personal view. The band also invited the young Belgian LOXS as external remixer. LOXS is nothing else but the dark electronic project of Passenger S’s eldest son.

The two different versions (“2.0” and “2.1”) hold each exclusive edits and remixes.

Here’s the official video clip for “Davos”.

The female fronted industrial metal act The True Union is back with an all new video, “Love Me Now”, and a mini-album, released as an EP: “Love Me Now (Not)”.

The new EP is out on Alfa Matrix , the Belgian label that already nurtured other female talents as Zombie Girl, Under Null, Helalyn Flowers or Ayria to name just a few.

For this new release front woman Azul Far was joined by producer Sebastian Komor and German metal producer Siggi Bemm and Travis Bacon who produced “Love Me Now”. On the EP we also find a guest appearance of Jamie Cronander’s (Combichrist live guitarist) who appears on the track “Karma”.

Note that the “Love Me Now (not)” EP also features the unique collaboration between The True Union (as guest vocalist) and her producer Sebastian Komor for the release of his new EP under the Komor Kommando moniker.

The EP also furthermore holds reworks by Alfa Matrix label mates Alien Vampires, Aesthetische and Acylum.

Here’s the excellent video clip for “Love Me Now”.