I first discovered Violens when I got a hold of their St. Etienne cover, "Avenue". Although it was just a taste, I developed a yearning for a full-length LP and that wish has finally been fulfilled. Yes, the band did release a summer "re"mixtape, but don't get it twisted. It is not the same. Never heard of Violens until now? Want to know how would I describe their sound? It is sort of a montage of fuzzy psychpop, synth and the 80s with a sometimes upbeat aggression. Lead singer Jorge Elbrecht has a very pronounced, new-wave vocal style.
Amoral, by definition, means to lack any sense of morality. Don't get thrown off by this: you don't have to put aside your music snob morals to enjoy this album. Elbrecht dually serves as a member of an art company in New York, and that influence is obvious in tracks such as "Generational Loss" and "Amoral". These have more of an instrumental, avant-garde feel. The rest of the album is a bit more straightforward and polished.
Amoral has a range of styles, but I will say this. Violens' true quality is more apparent in their upbeat, standout songs. Still, the album in its entirety makes for a great listen. Random note: I have to say that it is refreshing to not hear an ungodly amount of reverb. There are too many up-and-coming indie bands striving for a similar sound that are comparable to kids in a damn candy store when it comes to reverb. Instead of cavities, they probably have massive earwax buildup. At least that's what I feel like after my head is overloaded with reverb. Personally, I believe that many musicians use excessive reverb as an easy way out. Violens successfully produces a large, powerful sound without it.
All-in-all, Violens' Amoral is a great album to listen to during the upcoming fall/winter seasons. The lyrical content often broadcasts a very dark, somber aura, which is perfect. Check out the music video for "Acid Reign (In The Trees Mix)" below:
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