New Positronic album "Interstellar" Reviewed

Michael McDannold AKA Positronic continues his prolific run of releases with a brand new album called "Interstellar" and as we have come to expect, we have a set of synthpop gems.

The album opens with the excellent upbeat "Cosmic Dreams", which has strong hooks and is actually a well constructed track with wonderful synth sounds and "Erasure" inspired melodies, certainly a sign that Michael's songwriting continues to impress, fabulous track.

The single "Gravity" is definitely one for the dancefloor with it's dance beat, some nice sequenced melodies on this song and a very strong vocal with excellent lyrics.

"Rise" opens with a fabulous sequencer synth patterns, excellent bass-line, I like the feel of this track, a more meloncholic song, again the synth sounds are superb, I wasn't expecting the chorus, very strong and cuts through the more minimalistic sound perfectly, nice vocal delivery. It reminded me of Depeche Mode in parts, one of my favourite tracks on the album.

The single "In The Stars Tonight" is a belter of a track, one for the dancefloor, a solid and powerful song with a superb chorus, the whole track shines, excellent music and vocals, no surprise it was chosen as a single, a superbly produced track. My favourite track on the album.

Back to the dancefloor again with "A Sky Full Of Stars", upbeat, great structure on this song, what I would call a "banger", I like everything about this song, very uplifting and powerful chorus driven by a strong rhythmic section, another very strong track, the chorus is truly delightful, a track that was released as a single.

You can tell Michael is a big fan of Erasure, especially so on "Inception", it has a beautiful melody that runs through the song, with gentle sequencers, a perfect instrumental interlude.

When I first saw the title "Strangelove", I thought it was a cover of the Depeche Mode track, but it isn't, it is a a mid-paced song which for me showcases how Michael has developed his vocal skills, a perfect marriage with the electronic backdrop of the song, some nice melody parts again, something I think Michael really excells in. This is also the latest track off the album to be released as a single.

"Starlight" has a throbbling bass-line and excellent sequencer parts once again, a strong and confident vocal over a darker synth pallette, not as instant as other tracks on the album, however, after several listens you come to appreciate the layers and depth of this song.

"Through The Stars" is probably my least favourite track on the album, it's good but it didn't draw me in like other tracks on the album, that said I did like his use of synths.

Next we have a darker track, "Andromeda" deep bass dominates this track, which kicks into life at the 1 minute mark and opens up to some wonderful synth work, like "Inception" it is an instrumental but the melody at the 1 minute 30 secs mark is devine, another track I enjoyed.

The beautiful ballad "Glow" is next which has a more minimalistic backdrop that gives centre stage to Michaels vocals, I do like how the track develops and builds, a strong song in this set.

I do like the ryhthm track on "The Light" that evolves nicely with the bass parts and gentle sequencers, a track that showcases Michaels confident vocal, some really nice synth sounds used to great effect, I love the chorus, a stunning track and one of the best tracks on the album.

What a bonus!! A cover of "Neverending Story" which fits in nicely within the whole concept of this album and what a cover version, he has stayed true to the original version in its structure, a very well thought out cover version without a doubt. Another confident vocal, in short it is perfect! A welcome addition to the album and one of Michael's best ever tracks, fabulous!

"Echos Through Time" is a wonderful atmospheric track opening with beautiful pads and sounds, nice bass-line and a simple drum structure, which suits the song. I like how the track grows, it keeps to its ballad roots, a very impressive and immersive track, another big favourite of mine.

I have followed Michaels music very closely over several years now and have had the pleasure to review his albums and once again he has produced an album of real quality, raising the bar even further with his songwriting skills, another body of work he should be really proud of and highly recommend this album, if you love synthpop and are especially a fan of Vince Clarke and Erasure, a pleasure to listen to from start to finish.

8.5/10 

The album is available on CD and as a Digital Download via Bandcamp here 

Pet Shop Boys - Album By Album (Week 6)

BILINGUAL

The Pet Shop Boys' sixth studio album "Bilingual", released on September 2, 1996, showcases a significant evolution in their sound by infusing Latin American and world music influences into their synth-pop style. Their exposure to Latin rhythms, particularly during their 1994 Discovery Tour across South America, notably impacted the album’s thematic and sonic palette. The duo began work on the album in 1994, starting at Unique Studios in New York, revisiting the studio where they originally recorded "West End Girls." This geographically diverse recording process also included sessions in London, New York, and Moscow, reflecting the global inspirations behind the album.

"Bilingual" was partly conceptualized around the idea of bilingualism, mixing English with Spanish and Portuguese lyrics, as heard on tracks like "Discoteca," "Single-Bilingual," and "Se a vida é (That's the Way Life Is)." This cultural blending added fresh rhythmic textures and vocal harmonies to the album, further enriched by live percussion from specialists such as the Scottish samba ensemble SheBoom and Brazilian-inspired instruments like the berimbau and cuícas. The album continues the richly layered production and vocal harmonies that the Pet Shop Boys had embraced since their previous album "Very."

The album’s track list includes standout singles that successfully charted in the UK top 20, such as "Before," "Se a vida é," and "A Red Letter Day." These songs feature a combination of catchy melodies, sophisticated electronic production, and internationally influenced rhythms. The production team included longtime collaborator Chris Porter and club DJ Danny Tenaglia, who added dance music credibility and contemporary rhythmic elements to the record.

Noteworthy is the album’s innovative packaging, designed by Mark Farrow, which used frosted, sandblasted CD cases that mirrored the artistic ambition of the music itself. "Bilingual" reached number four on the UK Albums Chart and received gold certification, confirming both critical and commercial success.

An extended special edition was later released, adding bonus discs with remixes and previously unreleased tracks that expanded on the album’s dancefloor sensibility and world music inspirations.

Overall, "Bilingual" represents a mature work that blends Pet Shop Boys’ signature synth-pop with diverse world music influences, particularly Latin American, while continuing their tradition of clever lyricism and sophisticated productions, making it a distinctive and influential chapter in their storied catalog.

Discoteca

Opening with lively Latin rhythms, "Discoteca" blends English and Spanish lyrics, embodying the album's Latin dance influence. The track features pulsating percussion, electronic synths, and a club-ready beat, with lyrics celebrating dancefloor escape and cultural fusion.

Single-Bilingual

This track continues the bilingual theme with smooth, catchy synth-pop infused with dance beats. The lyrics explore themes of independence and nonconformity within relationships, with vibrant production mixing Latin percussion layers and electronic textures.

 Metamorphosis

A more introspective and atmospheric track, "Metamorphosis" plays with a dreamy synth arrangement and layered vocals. The theme centers around personal transformation and change, enhanced by subtle production that contrasts with the album’s more rhythmically intense songs.

Electricity

Up-tempo and driven by a rich house beat, "Electricity" invokes the power and intensity of dance music culture. The production is sleek, blending classic synth-pop with contemporary '90s club sounds, reflecting the duo’s dancefloor roots.

Se A Vida E (That's The Way Life Is)

Drawing from Brazilian rhythms, this track features Portuguese lyrics and live percussion instruments like the berimbau. It presents an optimistic outlook on life’s unpredictability and resilience, with production that integrates authentic Latin sounds and textured synth layers.

It Always Comes as a Surprise

A longer, more expansive composition, the song uses a sample from Brazilian singer Astrud Gilberto and features percussion samples like cuícas, emphasizing jazz and samba influences. Its contemplative lyrics about love and unexpected emotional shifts are matched by a rich, layered instrumental backdrop.

A Red Letter Day

This song integrates electronic beats with backing vocals by the Choral Academy of Moscow, adding a dramatic, almost anthemic feel. Lyrics convey hope and optimism amidst uncertainty, supported by production that melds classical choir elements with synth-driven pop.

Up Against It

Featuring a steadier groove and vibrant synth patterns, "Up Against It" carries themes of confrontation and resilience. The production balances dance beats and pop sensibility, creating a track that is both energetic and direct.

The Survivors

This track has a reflective, mature tone with themes of endurance and perseverance. The arrangement uses gentle synth pads and a steady rhythm, underscoring the song’s contemplative mood without overwhelming energy.

Before

Produced with club legend Danny Tenaglia, "Before" is one of the album’s definitive dance tracks. It features strong house beats, layered vocals, and catchy hooks, with lyrics reflecting anticipation and longing.

To Step Aside

This song includes a sample of Spanish gypsy music, blending traditional sounds with electronic production. It has a smooth, danceable beat and explores themes of moving on and seeking new directions.

Saturday Night Forever

A vibrant closing track, it combines classic synth-pop melodies with upbeat rhythms suitable for the dancefloor. Themes revolve around celebration and continuity, a fitting finale that embodies the album’s optimistic spirit.

Overall, "Bilingual" is defined by its fusion of Latin and world music elements with the Pet Shop Boys' signature synth-pop, seamlessly combining thoughtful lyrics with diverse rhythmic and instrumental textures. The album highlights the duo’s experimentation with bilingual lyrics, live percussion, and collaborations, creating a richly layered and culturally expansive work within their discography.

Final thoughts….

I found this album tough to get into when it was first released and my opinion hasn’t changed, in addition some of the choices for singles is questionable too, not an album I tend to play a great deal.

TRACK RATINGS

Each track on the album is scored on the following basis, an excellent tracks scores 3 points, a good track scores 2 points, an ok track scores 1 point and an awful track, scores no points, the total is added up and divided by the maximum number of points that would be available and then times that by 100 to get your overall score.  For example if an album scores 20 points and there are 10 tracks on the album, that means it can achieve a maximum score of 30, so divide 20 by 30 and times it by 100, it gives you a figure of 66.66, which is the final score rating for the album, in this case you would round it up to 67, if it was 66.33, you would round it down to 66. In the event there is a tie, the album with the most tracks rated at 3 ranks as higher.

Discoteca 1

Single-Bilingual 1

Metamorphosis 1

Electricity 0

Se A Vida E (That’s The Way Life Is) 3

It Always Comes As A Surprise 2

A Red Letter Day 2

Up Against It 2

The Survivors 2

Before 1

To Step Aside 2

Saturday Night Forever 0

Score 17

FINAL ALBUM RATING 47 

Current Album Chart 

1.       Actually - 80 (6 Tracks Rated As 3)

2.       Please - 80 (5 Tracks Rated As 3)

3.       Introspective - 78

4.       Behaviour - 73

5.       Very - 69

6.    Bilingual 47

Maximum 80s #145

Welcome to edition 145 of Maximum 80s here on White Lion Radio, a show that celebrates the 1980s 12 Inch Single!

This a series of shows that features some of the finest 12 Inch Singles from the 80s all in one continuous mix.

The biggest hits in the 12 Inch format from the greatest decade in music history!

Listen to the show on Mixcloud here

Playlist

Evelyn 'Champagne' King - I'm In Love (12 Inch Version)
Visage - Visage (12 Inch Dance Mix)
Spandau Ballet - Chant No 1 (12 Inch Mix)
Duran Duran - Girls On Film (Night Version)
Soft Cell - Tainted Love & Where Did Our Love Go (12 Inch Version)
Hi-Gloss - You'll Never Know (12 Inch Version)
Imagination - In And Out Of Love (12 Inch Mix)
Heaven 17 - Play To Win
Depeche Mode - Just Can't Get Enough (Schizo Mix)
ABC - Tears Are Not Enough (12 Inch Mix)
Kim Wilde - Cambodia & Reprise (12 Inch Version)
Simple Minds - Sweat In Bullet (Extended Remix)

Pet Shop Boys - Album By Album (Week #5)

VERY

The Pet Shop Boys album "Very" is their fifth studio album, released on September 27, 1993, nearly three years after their previous album "Behaviour." After the more subdued and introspective tone of "Behaviour," the duo sought to create a "mega dance-pop album" that was more upbeat, poppy, and energetic. They aimed for an album where every song could be a single, emphasizing fantastic, well-crafted pop songs with strong dance beats. The album was primarily recorded at Lowe's home studio in Hertfordshire, with basic tracks laid down there alongside programmer Pete Gleadall, before moving to Sarm West Studios in London for final recording. Additional production and mixing were handled by Stephen Hague, marking the first Pet Shop Boys album they mainly produced themselves, experimenting with creative arrangements and computer-generated sounds, including distinctive "computer game" noises throughout the album.

"Very" is noted for its change in presentation, embracing a more theatrical, colorful, and artificial image as a reaction against the grunge movement prominent at the time. The duo adopted surreal costumes and embraced computer-generated visuals in music videos, increasing their artistic creativity around the album’s promotion. The packaging was innovative, featuring a tactile orange box with raised dots, designed by Pentagram, symbolizing a fresh and unique approach to album artwork and presentation.

The album contains diverse tracks with a variety of styles, including uplifting dance-pop, romantic ballads, and witty storytelling. Some of the highlights include:

"Very" became the Pet Shop Boys' first UK number one album and produced several hit singles all reaching the UK top 20. It is often regarded as their "coming-out" album, coinciding with Neil Tennant openly discussing his sexuality. The album was accompanied by a limited-edition bonus CD titled "Very Relentless," featuring more experimental, instrumental tracks that showed their inclination towards club culture and dance music evolution.

Overall, "Very" marked a distinct creative leap for Pet Shop Boys, blending 1990s dance-pop energy with their signature lyrical wit, narrative storytelling, and innovative visual presentation, marking it as one of their most commercially successful and artistically rich albums.

Can You Forgive Her?

The album’s lead track is a catchy, energetic dance-pop song that explores complex relationship dynamics with irony and wit. Its production features bright synth hooks, playful electronic effects, and a narrative style in the lyrics about a closeted man facing judgment for his nonconformity.

I Wouldn't Normally Do This Kind of Thing

This track continues the upbeat dance vibe with a vibrant, house-influenced rhythm and shimmering synth layers. The lyrics express surprise and delight at impulsively engaging in romantic and joyful behavior, marking a celebratory tone in the album.

Liberation

A slower, more atmospheric song with cinematic synth textures and orchestral elements. It contrasts with the more immediate dance tracks and reflects themes of emotional freedom and release.

A Different Point Of View

The song features a light, funky groove with an upbeat tempo. Its lyrics touch on alternate perspectives and the idea of seeing things differently, supported by playful synth melodies and rhythmic percussion enhancing its quirky vibe.

Dreaming Of The Queen

A theatrical and somewhat melancholic track, its production blends synth-pop with an air of grandeur. Lyrically, it discusses themes of royalty, loss, and perhaps disillusionment, framed in a reflective narrative.

Yesterday, When I Was Mad

This song injects humor and sharp social commentary, critiquing celebrity culture and the music industry. The arrangement includes intricate synth patterns and a driving beat that keeps the energy high while delivering biting lyrics.

The Theatre

With layered synths and orchestral breakbeats, it offers a dramatic and cinematic soundscape. The mood is contemplative, addressing the performance aspects of social roles and human behavior.

One And One Make Five

Funky and experimental, this track blends dance rhythms with playful, almost whimsical synth sounds. The lyrics suggest a metaphysical or surreal take on relationships or mathematics, aligning with the album’s inquisitive spirit.

To Speak Is A Sin

Lush and melancholic, this track pairs poignant lyrics about communication difficulties and emotional restraint with rich synth orchestration, including string-like arrangements and gentle beats.

Young Offender

This track carries a more aggressive electronic pop sound with youthful energy and themes of rebellion, identity, and societal rules. Its production is punchy and propulsive, fitting the confrontational lyric content.

One In A Million

An upbeat track that stands out with its simplicity and emotional depth. It reflects on individuality and feeling unique in a crowded world, supported by soft synthesizers and Tennant’s emotive vocal delivery.

Go West

The album’s closing track is a grand, anthemic cover of the Village People’s disco classic. Featuring lush synth arrangements and a choir-style chorus, it transforms the song into an uplifting, almost transcendent statement on hope, unity, and liberation.

"Very" marked a vibrant, theatrical resurgence for the Pet Shop Boys with its rich production featuring a wide array of electronic textures, playful experiments with sound effects, and a confident embrace of pop and dance music. The album captured both joyous and reflective moods, blending witty, personal, and social themes within sophisticated synth-pop production. It was their first UK number one album, notable for its artistic boldness and fresh, colorful presentation.

Final thoughts….

This is a consistent album with a good cross section of songs; I much prefer the album version of “I Wouldn’t Normally Do This Kind Of Thing” over the single version released and I would have chosen “One In A Million” as a single rather than “Liberation”.

TRACK RATINGS

Each track on the album is scored on the following basis, an excellent tracks scores 3 points, a good track scores 2 points, an ok track scores 1 point and an awful track, scores no points, the total is added up and divided by the maximum number of points that would be available and then times that by 100 to get your overall score.  For example if an album scores 20 points and there are 10 tracks on the album, that means it can achieve a maximum score of 30, so divide 20 by 30 and times it by 100, it gives you a figure of 66.66, which is the final score rating for the album, in this case you would round it up to 67, if it was 66.33, you would round it down to 66. In the event there is a tie, the album with the most tracks rated at 3 ranks as higher.

Can You Forgive Her? 2

I Wouldn’t Normally Do This Kind Of Thing 2

Liberation 2

A Different Point Of View 2

Dreaming Of The Queen 2

Yesterday When I Was Mad 2

The Theatre 2

One And One Makes Five 2

To Speak Is A Sin 2

Young Offender 1

One In A Million 3

Go West 3

Score 25

 FINAL ALBUM RATING 69

 Current Album Chart

 1.       Actually - 80 (6 Tracks Rated As 3)

2.       Please - 80 (5 Tracks Rated As 3)

3.       Introspective - 78

4.       Behaviour - 73

5.       Very - 69