CD Review: A Is For Atom's 'Song For You'

A Is For Atom
Song For You
Self-Release

A Is For Atom is an electronic-pop venture by Mike Cykoski, which reinvents Brit-pop influences with spacey, electronica and breathtaking, melodic arrangements. Song For You is a six-track release with different elements constructed within each track that makes each one stand out. The reggae-tinged and cathartic track, "Bombs Away," contains a breezy melody, alt-pop elements, and great vocals throughout. "Load Up On Guns" opens with scratchy, electronic sounds and Owsley-esque vocals with a hint of British ambiance. A laser-like dance medley of keyboard and Moog synthesizer creates a spacey affect later on. Think of Action Figure Party with more pop constructions and synth-driven songs. "India" contains a bit of folksy and reggae-tinged music with a grungy-pop element that is both fun and diverse. Overall, A Is For Atom is so good here; I give it an A+ and 5 Stars (out of 5)~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: diNMachine's 'Dance To Reason'

diNMachine
Dance To Reason
Self-Release

The electronic trip-hop concoctions of New York's diNMachine are industrial, innovative, instrumental, and ingenious. The gritty sounds are edgy and punchy with some degree of jazz and new age elements. The experimental and avant-garde sounds are mostly instrumental with a few voices added for greater musical affect. The frenzied sounds of "Lpse" are upbeat and experimental. There are elements of chiptune or videogame-type musical backing that is very electronic and trippy. The blurby sounds of "Fifth Bass" incorporate a bit of swishy percussion and cascading, electronic melodies that soar into a unique echelon of aural existence. In fact, the entire album excels with performance, composition, and creativity. Think of Lamb, Action Figure Party, and Gino Foti partying it up and you get Dance To Reason. Check out a video here: http://vimeo.com/84809265 ~ Matthew Forss