MDMM mark quite a departure for X0X. Their sound comes from an indie foundation with some synth influences, rather than being influenced by Aphex Twin or Underground Resistance the group’s inspiration comes from 80s pop ballads and 90s rock rebels.
“Like father like son.” The old adages don’t necessarily apply to electronic music. For over fifteen years X0X Records has been pushing the electro envelope with artists like Blastromen, Sero and Biodread. The parent has sired two sub-labels, from the dub warmth of Escape From Synthesis to the embittered acid grimaces of the Proform Series, and quite a few 12”s. 2018 marks a new member to the family and a different genre, the synth centered Sound & Sequence.
Million Dollar Money Machine are the debutants and mark their first release with the lovelorn title piece. A heartstring plucking melody is accompanied by breathy vocals depicting a tale of fallen romance and broken hopes. Those same vocals follow into the slow and considered “Worlds Apart.” Melancholic tones are countered by sparkling synth lines and moody basslines. There is an undeniable pop undercurrent to the 12”, from its catchy hooks to its central theme of failed passions and unrequited amor. The flip carries on in a similar vein. “No Place To Go” is the most accomplished track of the EP. Guitar strings and subtle synthlines weave seamlessly in a track steeped in the traditions of classic tearjerkers. Broad bars are balanced by sweetened notes in the closing adieu of “Cold Goodbyes.”
MDMM mark quite a departure for X0X. Their sound comes from an indie foundation with some synth influences, rather than being influenced by Aphex Twin or Underground Resistance the group’s inspiration comes from 80s pop ballads and 90s rock rebels. I’m not sure how the 12” will sit with the Finnish label’s regular listeners, nevertheless variety is the supposed spice and this new 12″ is certainly a departure from steely electro.
Strangers is available on Sound & Sequence.
