Just found this killer synthpop single- a playful two track 12'' from Trash X, released in 1988. It's the band's only release, and was engineered by Ronny Schreinzer of The Twins.
It seems as if this particular release was a collaboration between several esteemed writers and producers, including David Heilmann (Wire, Depeche Mode) and H+N (Holger Flesch & Norbert Endlich). While it sounds of Russian origin, the single was actually recorded and released in Germany.
Not much more to be said about this one, so here's the information:
Here's a slice of classic EBM for all you heavy-beat nuts. Advanced Art were based in Finland, formed in 1985, and split in the mid-90s, when the early EBM sound shifted focus to heavy metal guitars. The majority of their releases (four singles and two full lengths) explore the classic electro-based sound, so fans of Front 242, A Split-Second, and Nitzer Ebb should definitely enjoy this one. This particular 12'' dates back to 1991, and follows two early 7'' releases. Here's the breakdown:
Advanced Art- Scar 12'' 1. From Nothing to Nothing 2. Wake Up 3. Tear Open These Scars 4. From Nothing to Nothing (Edit)
Been meaning to upload this one for ages. Classic new beat/synthpop single from Few Boys, a band on the infamous Westside Music label, best known as the home of Moskwa TV. This 1985 single is the band's only release. The 12'' version of the track is a DJ staple of mine, and has made its way into the majority of my playlists over the years.
Expect giant beats, shameless hooks, and an infectious chorus that's impossible to resist. You can probably put this one in a league with Depeche Mode, Anything Box, Red Flag, Camouflage, etc. The 12'' version of "Secret Times" is a bit longer (and a bit better quality, sourced from my own collection), but the 7'' features an exclusive b-side, so I've uploaded both. Here's the info:
Few Boys- Secret Times 7'' 1. Secret Times 2. Flash & Pain
Few Boys- Secret Times 12' 1. Secret Times (12'' Version) 2. Secret Times (Secret Dub)
Here's a little classic and somewhat shameless synthpop record that's been a fun-filled favorite of mine for some time. The record in question is the debut album from Noel (Noel Pagan), a Cuban-born New Yorker with a powerful voice and some street smart credibility. Debut single "Silent Running" was released in 1987, but it took almost a year for his self-titled debut to appear in more readily available form on 4th and Broadway Records.
On listening, the record recalls mid-period Depeche Mode and various New Beat one-offs, with a more New York freestyle vibe. Though Noel would release a handful of dance mix singles into the '90s, his proper sophomore effort, Hearts on Fire failed to capture the same energy as the debut. He currently collaborates on recordings with the likes of Eddie Arroyo and Eddie Baez.
Without any further ado, here's the details for Noel's self-titled debut.
Noel- Noel LP 1. Silent Morning 2. Fire To Ice 3. To Be With You 4. Out Of Time 5. Change 6. Like A Child 7. Fallen Angel 8. City Streets 9. What I Feel For You
Once more, sorry for the delay! I keep meaning to start back up with regularity, but this summer has proven to be a busy affair. I just had the honor and pleasure of playing bass for Mark Burgess (of the Chameleons), joined onstage in New York and Philly by some talented local musicians. It was a last minute affair, learning the songs the night before (and sometimes, that day), and playing them as best as we could under the most terrifying of circumstances. Needless to say, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life to date. I presume many readers are familiar with Burgess' work with the Chameleons, but if not, pick some up posthaste! Otherwise, to any readers who were there, both on stage or off- thanks for the good times!
Anyway, on a different note, here's an interesting treat that will hopefully get things back on track around here.
Šizike were a Yugoslavian dance/new wave band, known primarily in their home country for the slinky single "Don't Stop." The band was primarily an offshoot of the Master Scratch Band, who plucked three female vocalists to be the forefront of the project. The MSB played all instruments, while these three sirens provided the vocals for their lone release, 1984's U Zemlji Čuda LP, an interesting and curious anomaly in the new wave spectrum.
The record is primarily a collection of songs, remixed or altered in various forms on the B-side. The project reminds me of a slower and synthier version of Fuzzbox, though obvious differences are notable. A little fun and fancy free...mildly cheesy at times, but oh so satisfying.
That reminds me, I should probably put a rip of the Fuzzbox LP up in full, to flesh out the post I made a ways back, but more on that soon. Here's the details on this fine record:
Here's a little classic and somewhat shameless synthpop record that's been a fun-filled favorite of mine for some time. The record in question is the debut album from Noel (Noel Pagan), a Cuban-born New Yorker with a powerful voice and some street smart credibility. Debut single "Silent Running" was released in 1987, but it took almost a year for his self-titled debut to appear in more readily available form on 4th and Broadway Records. 
Šizike were a Yugoslavian dance/new wave band, known primarily in their home country for the slinky single "Don't Stop." The band was primarily an offshoot of the Master Scratch Band, who plucked three female vocalists to be the forefront of the project. The MSB played all instruments, while these three sirens provided the vocals for their lone release, 1984's U Zemlji Čuda LP, an interesting and curious anomaly in the new wave spectrum.
