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Ooowwww, this has got to be one of the most powerful and dynamic releases you're ever likely to hear!! The Canadian duo of Graham Jackson and William Winslow-Hansen have hit the nail firmly on the head with their blend of hard as nails rhythms, ultra-bassy sequencing and accessable melodics that will make you an instant convert to the Droom cause.
The opening seconds of "Stay!" don't seem to be promising a great deal as the initial sequence could be any run-of-the-mill 'future pop' band but once the bass and rhythm combo that equals VNV Nation at their best gets into it's stride you'll realise this isn't just anyone, it is Droom and they're here to stay. The balance between power and melody has is perfectly maintained throughout, as proven by the kicking bass drum of "Trust?" which equals the intensity of any EBM band you might care to name, almost being distorted but not quite going that far while the addition of Jackson's excellent and gritty guitar work makes "Passion Junkie" a real stormer. If the duo can develop this side of their music further on future releases then they're destined to become one of the world's top acts, without doubt. Furthermore, in addition to the power and dynamics that are so in abundance they also know how to keep this feeling alive even during the slower tracks such as the warm "A Thousand Ghosts" without making them boring or plodding (which is where bands of this ilk can often come a cropper!) "Wedding Day Dream" likewise benefits from the treated rhythms that add to the track's morose feel. This is a good trick to master and the fact that Droom have already done so speaks volumes about their talent and potential.
If you're looking for the perfect combination of power and melody from start to finish accept no substitute, Droom are the real deal, "128 1/2 Days" is the proof; suddenly Todd Durrant's 'move over VNV Nation' comments don't seem so far fetched after all!
RATING: 9
Artist Link: http://www.adifferentdrum.com
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