seven

This is a self produced EP from the Italian band "BLaNK" consisting of 6 beautifully composed tracks, sure to infect your blood stream. "424c414e4b" which is "BLaNK" in hexadecimal contains very intelligent and melodically arranged vocals. Powerful and dark EBM, with slight synth pop techno undertones, these guys are sure to become big with the velocity of bands such as VNV nation, Assemblage 23, Flesh field and Covenant.

The opening track "Visual Overflow" begins with a progressive build from slowly arranged synthetic beats to only which can only be described as a climatic explosion of danceable and very fresh EBM that will make your spine tingle and your feet tap. This is my favorite song on the EP, which has found itself on repeated play so much that I'm surprised it hasn't melted. The vocals are ever so slightly distorted, still managing to keep the crisp sound of The Maze's great voice.

Mutant Engine begins very quiet and very gradual, ultimately leading towards a very bombastic and fast paced ear-pleasing masterpiece. Perfectly timed vocals, awesome smashes and beats taking you into a brilliant chorus and another plain of musical existence.

Happy Children has a little surprise installed. While not committing themselves to a particular style BlaNK lean towards an aggressive but still club-oriented remix on this track by P. Lion. This shows their versatility as artists. A little more processed vocals and topped with a background layer of great synthetic harmony. I loved it… it reminded me somewhat of dulce liquido/hocico.

Closing this EP is the track Mechanoid Corp. With really noisy electronics, echoing samples, a violent array of smashing beats and grinding guitars leaving you breathless and waiting for your head to explode. An ending you won't forget.

Overall I was impressed with the talent of Der Mate (programming) and The Maze (vocals and programming). BlaNK are a very promising group that will take the on the best at their own game.

You can go to http://digilander.iol.it/d4 where you can also download the cover art and a copy of their 6 track demo EP. The track Mutant Engine is also on the sample compilation "Machinewelt IV". Currently they are working on a new Full length Demo. 3 tracks have been completed and might i add there are plenty more surprises for fans of BLaNK to come. The new demo sounds great, keep an eye out on the webpage for updates on the new releases.