Team Data Amplifier: Replicant Eyes

A format that almost seemed lost a few years ago, the EP is now making a serious comeback as bands hope that short sharp bursts may be the key to keeping the digital generation engaged. When the results are as good as those from Wisconsin's Team Data Amplifier, they may just be right. Lyrically things on Replicant Eyes are based on the excellent movie Blade Runner and the work of its author Phillip K. Dick. Added ear catching and atmosphere building spoken word sections contributing hugely to a musical aura that could belong to a progressive Sugar, or even in places Husker Du.

Vocalist, guitarist, bassist, programmer, producer, engineer Dustin Sisson is obviously the main motivator behind this outfit, and yet Shawn Conrad and Mike Braeckevelt also add guitar, Dan Eichman bass and Brad Hawes drums. Credit to all five of them for crafting an aggressive, yet smooth mix of alternative rock, metal, prog, and even industrial, then melding it to a bleak, moody theme with great effect. "Take Me Where It's Dark" sits on an echoing drum beat, stabs of synth and guitar riding above a bass thrum and characteristically engaging vocal from Sisson; the singer's ability to deliver this story in believable tones a huge factor in why this eight song blast works so well. "Wake Up Time To Die" infuses an uneasy kick of adrenalin into proceedings, yet still stays surprisingly upbeat, while "The Fear Initiative" closes things in a cleverly introspective mood.

Classy, if simple, packaging adds to the overall vibe Replicant Eyes is aimed at, however it is the set of cohesive and focused songs which shine through strongest. In itself that's a skill, however so is making the end results memorable and hugely engaging, something Team Data Amplifier have achieved remarkably well.

Track Listing
1. Head First
2. The Lie Enigma
3. Together
4. Take Me Where It's Dark
5. Wake Up, Time To Die
6. Manic Love And Forgiveness
7. The Fear Initiative
8. Do You Love Me? Do You Trust Me?

Added: December 13th 2014
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Team Data Amplifier BandCamp
Hits: 1905
Language: english

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