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The Notwist, "Neon Golden"
In the four years since their last album, 'Shrink,' the members of this German group have kept active with numerous other projects, including two astonishing albums from Lali Puna; two incredible full-lengthers and a remix disc from Tied and Tickled Trio; plus notable LP, EP and remix releases from Console; and various appearances on others albums. 'Shrink' was probably such a phenomenal pop/post-rock electronic jazzy breakthrough that I may have been expecting something similar. 'Neon Golden' has far exceeded my expectations, however.
City Slang (EU) / Domino (US)
Pop elements are present with songs like the pounding debut single, "Pilot" and the peppy and infectious record label teaser, "One with the Freaks" (being given away in its entirety on City Slang's website). Songs like "Pick up the Phone" linger with me for hours, even days after I've heard the tune. As the members have been pursuant of other outlets, however, there's far less jazz elements, but organic instruments like various woodwinds, horns, banjo and strings are fully present and accounted for. Various other songs like "Trashing Days," and the title track catch the group experimenting with taking the tempo down a wee bit, allowing us, as listeners to savour the sound like a fine wine. Most of all, Marcus Acher's distinct vocals are the key which separates this band from the rest of the post-post-rockers and perfectly caps the signature Notwist sound. While I think I may have been unwarm during the first few listens, I have quickly learned nearly all of the lyrics and sing along quite enthusiastically whenever it's on. With the inclusion of Martin Gretschmann (a.k.a. Console), the group has gone from a metal-esque outfit from their early days to a top-notch electro-pop combo, pushing the boundaries of popular music standards, perfectly balancing electronics and conventional rock instruments into a sound which is untouchable. Laptop owners could take some serious notes from Notwist and force their way into some pop/rock outfits and stop doodling around solely with hacked software. Two music videos and an entire MP3 are located at www.cityslang.com. With any luck, a more affordable North American release of this will be out sometime this year. We'll keep you posted.
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