Review "Visible" DVD Orkus
So
knapp der Titel Visible auch anmutet-das, was dahintersteckt, ist es beileibe
nicht. Gleich zwei digitale Scheiben haben Clan Of Xymox mit haufenweise Material
vollgestopft. Dabei sieht man Ronny Moorings, Mojca Zugna und Band meist auf
der Bühne agieren,besteht ein Großteil der Videos doch aus Live -Aufnahmen.
Die fallen recht unterschiedlich aus, schließlich wirkt ein Gig im dunklen
Club mit einzelnen Lichteffekten ganz anders als eine Show auf der riesigen
Open Air-Bühne des M'era Luna oder Zillo-Festivals. Beides sicher reizvoll,
wobei eine ziemlich gute Auswahl getroffen wurde. Gleiches lässt sich zur
Wahl der Songs sagen. Von absoluten Klassikern a la This World und Louise bis
zu frischen Stücken wie We Never Learn oder Heroes ist einiges vertreten.
Zum letzteren Bowie-Cover gibt es denn auch einen Clip in Schwarzweiß,
der zwar nicht mit spektakulärer Technik aufwartet, aber dafür mit
viel Persönlichkeit und Ideen. Generell strahlen die beide DVDs eine gewisse
Indieattitüde aus, wurde doch die Mehrzahl der Aufnahmen ohne professionelle
Kamerateams gestaltet und am Ende von Fronter Moorings selbst bearbeitet und
zusammengestellt. Das macht die Sache für Fans besonders interessant,Visible
überzeugt einfach mit einer Menge Authentizität. Abgerundet werden
Clips und Live-Videos noch durch etliche Backstageimpressionen und gar ein kurzes
Interview. Letzteres hätte ein wenig umfangreicher oder irgendwie spannender
ausfallen dürfen. Aber man sollte es wohl eher als kleinen Bonus sehen,
immerhin bietet das Material schon wirklich viel Clan Of Xymox.
––
Review "Visible" DVD Re-flection
Geschrieben
von Ingo Möller
Mittwoch, 02. April 2008
Ronny
Moorings hat sich sehr viel Zeit genommen, um das gesamte Material für
die erste Clan Of Xymox DVD der langjährigen Bandgeschichte zusammen zu
stellen.
Nun liegt das Ergebnis mit Namen "Visible" als Doppel-DVD in einem
gewöhnlichen Doppel-CD Slipcase vor.
"Visible" führt dem Fan der Band auf der ersten DVD insgesamt
zehn Clan Of Xymox Videos vor Augen, die über einen Zeitraum von mehr als
neun Jahren gesammt und nunmehr erstmalig komplett veröffentlicht worden
sind.
Aufgrund des limitierten Budgets, das für Videoproduktionen im Indiependentbereich
zur Verfügung standen und stehen, muss man die Kriterien für die Bewertung
der optischen Umsetzungen der Clan Of Xymox Songs relativieren. Die Bildqualitäten
diverser Videos sind recht mäßig und man hat sich oftmals vermehrt
Live-Einblendungen bedient. Und auch wenn die anderen Sequenzen der Videos mitunter
recht steif und amateurhaft wirken, so wissen sie dennoch zu gefallen. Es ist
einfach herrlich, diese unverbrauchte Naivität zu konsumieren und nicht
mit 100% durch produzierter Kost auf Durchschnitts-MTV-Niveau abgespeist zu
werden.
Neben den Videos gibt es dann auf dem ersten Silberling noch einige Live-Mitschnitte
von früheren Zillo-Festival (Gott hab es seelig) Auftritten der Wave-Gothic
Band zu bestaunen. Nicht nur das Geschehen auf der Bühne wurde ordentlich
eingefangen, auch das Betrachten der Leute von vor zehn Jahren lässt einen
doch des Öfteren schmunzeln. Und dann ist es doch immer wieder erschreckend,
wie schnell die Zeit vergeht.
Die zweite DVD ist dann vom Material her deutlich frischer, denn es gibt den
Clan Of Xymox Auftritt vom M'era Luna 2006 auf die Augen und die Ohren. Hier
ist die Qualität dann auch schon deutlich besser und man sieht den Wandel
der Zeit bei den Aufnahmen auf angenehme Art und Weise, denn für diese
Aufnahmen zeigte sich das Team von Crazy Clip TV verantwortlich.
Neben einem langen und interessanten Interview mit Mastermind und Bandkopf Ronny
Moorings gibt es dann abschließend noch zwei weitere Clips von den Songs
"Consolation" und "We Never Learn".
Alles in allem eine gute DVD mit einem deutlichen Hang zu Live-Aufnahmen - schade
ist dabei ansich nur, dass es kein komplettes Fulltime Konzert als DVD Version
zu genießen gibt. Aber auch diese DVD-Mitschnitte sind ja besser als nichts
- und wer weiß, vielleicht kommt eine zweite Clan Of Xymox DVD Veröffentlichung
schneller, als man denkt.
––
Heroes ( EP) review Orkus
Mit seiner frischen Single erweist Ronnz Moorings seinem Idol
David Bowie die Ehre und covert einen von dessen gröBten Hits, Heroes.
Nicht sofort offenbart sich dem Hörer diese Verbindung, beginnt die neue
Clan Of Xymox-EP doch mit einer Slow Induatrial Version des Klassikers, die
schon deutlich vom Orginal abeicht.Keine schlechte Idee, zumal in alter Xymox
-Manier nicht an Schwermut gespart wurde und somit mal ein wirklich interessantes
Cover herausgekommen ist. Dagegenrecht nach am Orginal ist die zweite, spätere
Pop-Variante, die den so berühmten Song wohlakzentuiert ins neue Millenium
transportiert und auch jüngeren leuten die Einzigartigkeit des Stückes
näherbringt.
Als Intermezzo zwischen der aktuellen Platte Breaking Point und der für
dieses Jahr erwarteten DVD befinden sich noch Be My Friend vom genannten Album
sowie mit On A Mission ( in zwei Fassungen) ein völlig neuer Track auf
der CD.Letzterer fällt wohl am ehesten unter die Katagorie ,,Dancefloor"
und weist-wie die restlichen Stücke, mit Ausnahme der Industrial Version-die
typischen Xymox-Komponenten von modernen Electro Sounds in Verknüpfung
mit Gitarren auf. So bleiben am Ende fünf Tracks, die durchaus als nett
zusammengestellte Maxi durchgehen können und gerade durch die Bowie-Cover
einen gewissen Reiz bezitzen. Denn auch wenn der Clan -Meister Moorings bereits
für etliche Outputs bekannt ist, stehen Fremdinterpretationen eher selten
auf seinem Programm.
Silvio Wolff , Orkus 06, 2007
Clan of Xymox is after the succesful most recent album Breaking Point back with a suprising MCD to shorten the wait on the upcoming for the fall of 2007 planned first Clan of Xymox DVD. This MCD is surprising because Ronny and co. cover a David Bowie classic, ‘Heroes’ in a very tasteful way. This they do with two versions, a modest and melancholic teinted ‘industrial version’, which really connects to the dark side of the typical Clan of Xymox style and a somewhat lighter and catchy wave-pop version. This MCD furthermore has a very good and also quite danceable song with ‘On A Mission’, in two versions of which the second is a bit more interesting compared to the first one. This song can be categorixed into the recent electro oriented tradition of songs such as ‘’There’s No Tomorrow’ and ‘Weak In My Knees’. Finally there is a single version on this disc of the popular song ‘Be My Friend’, from the Breaking Point album. Clan of Xymox has not only managed to release a nice appetizer with this MCD, but also again one of a musicwise pretty high standard. Very accomplished.
With “Heroes” Clan Of Xymox take on one of the classics in music history
and gives it back to the fans, new and with their own unique twist. The industrial
version of the song is slow, almost melancholic in typical Clan Of Xymox style
while the pop version of the original song is more of a homage to Ronny Mooring's
time without the Clan. “On A Mission” is a Brand New track, done in
the best tradition of club hits such as “There’s No Tomorrow”
or “Weak In My Knees” : great modern Electro / Guitar sounds for the
Dancefloor scene. Finally “Be My Friend” ( one of the most successful
songs from the “Breaking Point” album ) is included here in a new
mix.
Breaking Point
Reviewed by DerRozzengarten
The long-awaited new attempt of the legends of the dark wave scene after the
really strong “Farewell” (2003) is finally reality and all of us can
cherish the emotional beauty of Ronny Mournings’ dreams, nightmares, desires,
sorrows presented in small stories in the shape of inspired compositions. The
name of it “Breaking Point” and I think that this specific album is
really a “breaking point” for the band simply because it has that
flawless feeling “Medusa” (1986) used to evoke to the listener, the
feeling that everything that is present is present only for good and nothing
more.
Ronny Mourings and Clan Of Xymox seem to offer one of their strongest releases
of the last 16 years, along with “Creatures” and “Farewell”.
The whole album is well-conceived, well-executed, filled with a beautiful and
fragile surrounding atmosphere and, above all, the aesthetic that Clan Of Xymox
always had, this very special and unique feeling that is present in their compositions
throughout the years. The guitar work is one of the best Clan Of Xymox ever
had, gothic-rock oriented just like on “Creatures” with the one brilliant
guitar idea coming right after the other or having a more accompanying slightly
present role, adding another beautiful and floating sense to the compositions.
Clan Of Xymox seem to experiment with electronics more than ever before and
all I can say is that the electronic touch of the album is quite successful,
lending to it a more “mechanical” sense evoked through the “cold”
and “lifeless” aesthetic of the electronic music. The synthesizers
are used in a genius way and except for the electro-apparoch they lend to the
album in some of its compositions they are always present through the whole
duration of the album without forgetting to adorn it with a wailing and touching
melancholic atmosphere. The drum machine is used in the most appropriate way,
lending groove and pulse to the compositions, in the most ideal way, just like
it has to be, and I guess none of you would expect Clan Of Xymox to have problems
with the use of the drum machine in the year 2006 since they have been using
it for the last 25 years! I think it’s needless and pointless to talk about
Mourings’ vocal interpretation and lyrics, but I’ll give it a try.
For one more time Ronny offers a fabulous and flawless interpretation, whether
he sings with his deep and “cold” accent or sounds more emotional
and heart-rending, evoking emotions of solitude, utter melancholy and a feeling
as if hope has perished, giving a really special meaning to the poetic and heart-felt
lyrics. And this twisted crying female almost-monologue on “Pandora’s
Box” just leaves you so… empty…
The variety of the album is of course something really positive. You will find
the more danceable electro-driven compositions that have the power to become
dance-floor favorites, the more gothic rock-oriented ones with the upbeat and
groovy feeling and the fragile and serene ones that will definitely make sorrow
blossom in the core of the listener’s soul. The album flows as one and
there’s no need for pointless high-light pick ups, the only thing you have
to do is press the play button and drown because Clan Of Xymox albums should
be embraced as whole experiences and not single parts.
Well, Clan f Xymox is a legendary act of the dark scene and “Breaking Point”
is a really mature album, another one, filled with intensity, deep emotions
and an atmosphere adorned with roses…
http://www.metalstorm.ee/reviews/more_review.php?id=1788
Two
years after the release of their exceptional Best Of release, we're now presented
with the latest great work from this renowned band in the form of Breaking Point.
It's hard to imagine how a band with such an extensive history can continue
to "mature" their sound, but it seems they manage to do so in subtle
ways that only long-time fans will really be able to notice. Overall they still
capitalize on the same solid elements they've used over all of these years.
Ronny Moorings uses his deep, angst-ridden vocals as a foundation and anchor
for the music that has it's own groundwork laid down through solid synths and
various guitar layers.
To begin the album is the precursor single "Weak in my Knees" sporting
the most recognizable elements from this band in their club- friendly, goth-rock
sound. This track was released as a single several weaks ago including some
nice remixes of this track along with remixes of their classic track "Michelle"
and the appearance of "Calling You Out", also available on this album.
It's with good reason that this piece was chosen as the single from this disc
with it's powerful, electronics-based foundation. This is followed by two more
danceable tracks in the form of "Calling You Out" and "She's
Dangerous". These moving tracks feature everything from distorted guitar,
various synth and electronic loops, but always with a solid beat, a deep steady
flowing sound and Ronny's excellent vocals.
At this point we're dragged down into the drowing depths of the deep emotional
ballads that always manage to appear on each release from this band in the form
of "Eternally". The lyrics follow suit with previous works, providing
a profound look into the inner depths of the artists conscious. Along with the
look into the meaningful lyrics these tracks provide, they also provide a break
from the driving and sometimes harsher tracks for an excellent variety. This
tempo remains through "We Never Learn" with another beautiful ballad
that has quickly become another favorite of mine.
After this short break we dive right back into the upbeat, dynamic sounds of
"Be My Friend". The lyrics are interesting on this piece and by the
title you wouldn't think this would be another driving club track. As it is,
this selection would get my vote as the single for the album with a mix of "O
Fortuna" choir samples accenting the solid synths and deep basslines that
provide the musical backdrop. While the intensity of the album remains extremely
strong, the tempo starts to slow with "Cynara" and marks the decline
from the clymax of the previous track. Slowly you think the album begins to
wind down with this piece and the instrumental ambient piece "Pandora's
Box" featuring some nice samples and dreamy soundscapes. But once again
at the conclusion of this piece we're launched back into the fray with the finale
two pieces forming the finale of the album with a powerful exit. "Under
the Wire" sports some of the most electronic elements in one track with
minimal guitar, but then "What's Going On" goes all out with the electronics
and synths without even a detectible hint of the guitar driven goth sounds.
With that the album concludes and the listener can honestly say that this is
another memorable album that won't soon be forgotten. It stands out in many
ways against today's music, delving back into the gothic rock foundation that
so many fans grew up listening to, while it has electronics, it varies from
the onslaught of synthpop and EBM bands that have flooded the scene lately with
each band sound exactly like every other band, and at the same time the artists
haven't jumped onto the indie / emo rock bandwagon like so many others have,
trying to make it into the teen-pop scene. They stay true to themselves and
true to their fans while they still provide new and excellent music.
The
new tracks on the single 'Weak in my knees' created high expectations for the
new Clan of Xymodx album on which these songs (title track and 'Calling you
out' ) appear, but the other eight tracks on 'Breaking point' fulfil all that
could have been expected. I didn't found any weak links on this release, also
thanks to the variety of sounds, tempos and styles on the cd. Ronny Moorings
managed to create new directions within a sound that remains typical, as we
are used to hear from Clan of Xymox.
Like the opening track 'Weak in my knees', the song 'Be my friend' sticks into
your head after you heard it just once. The thrill of passion and mystery is
in 'She's dangerous', nostalgia in 'Eternally' and it's almost like you watch
a movie while you listen to 'Pandora's box', the soundtrack to a passionate
play.
Like we're used from Clan of Xymox the album shows a perfect mix between electronics
and guitars with vocals which match within this sound. The lyrics are all expressive
language, especially 'Calling you out' , 'Eternally', 'We never learn' and 'Under
the wire'. And sometimes not too many words are necesarry to tell a story.
'Eternally' is one of the best ballads in the Xymox oeuvre and with songs like
'Weak in my knees', 'What's going on' and 'Calling you out' , which will do
very well on the dancefloor, some future classics are mentioned. For those who
like the sound of Clan of Xymox, this release is a must have; it's one of the
best albums, which shows that it's possible to express a kind of art that's
familiar while it is original too.
Listening to 'Breaking point' is like walking through an old sylish castle,
while surrounded by the atmosphere of today's impressions of all that's going
on in a life. A kind of reality which doesn't need any fantasy to be marvellous.
Refuting the rumour of a possible break-up ( following "Farewell" and "The Best Of" releases ) Goth / Darkwave legends Clan Of Xymox are back with "Breaking Point" : possibly their most perfectly blended album yet. Featuring searing guitar lines, strong bass sounds mixed with atmospheric and powerful synths and Ronny Mooring's deep, sensuous and harmonic voice it delivers all of Xymox's trademark sounds and references offered in their iconic and unique style. This 'classic' sound is no more evident than on album opener and first single "Weak In My Knees" - a club hit par excellence : mighty tunes, powerful chorus line, a perfect sing-a-long melody which catches the listener in an instant. The following track "Calling You Out" shows them from their darker, even more aggressive side with straight guitar lines and no compromises, while "She’s Dangerous" is yet another dancefloor hit - complete with infectious synth lines, driving rhythms and a permenant hook. "Eternally", "We Never Learn" and "Cynara" are songs that will capture the hearts of their older fans immediately - quiet, almost introspective, slow, thoughtful and eternal. "Be My Friend" presents another powerful club hit while album closers "Pandora’s Box" - forms an interlude into the aggressive song "Under The Wire" ( a track that demonstrates perfectly the rockier side of Clan Of Xymox ) and finally "What’s Going On" a melodic masterpiece that demands replaying.
Clan Of Xymox
“Breaking Point”
(Pandaimonium Records/Alive)
Lasst euch nicht vom Titel in die Irre führen. Auch auf “Breaking
Point” gibt es die von C:O:X: gewohnte Mischung aus Darkwave-, Electro-
und Dancefloorelementen, eine Symbiose aus Gitarren und Synthies. Die Singleauskopplung
“Weak In My Knees” eröffnet das neue Album. Ein Clubhit, der
sicher bald schon in einem Atemzug mit “This World” und “There´s
No Tomorrow” und ihren anderen Dancefloor-Smashern genannt werden wird.
Weiter geht es mit “Calling You Out”, das auch schon auf der Single
zu finden war. Langsamer, düsterer und sehr eingängig wird dieser
Song von vielen Fans heiß und innig geliebt werden – etwas zum zu
Hause Hören. Und so geht es weiter, tanzbare Stücke wie “She´s
Dangerous” wechseln sich ab mit langsameren wie “Eternally”.
Letzteres ist zweifelsohne eines der absoluten Highlights des Albums. Melancholisch-schön,
sehr atmosphärisch und mit einer unwiderstehlichen Hookline zeigt es die
Band wieder einmal von ihrer allerbesten Seite. Schwelgerisch, ergreifend –
so kennen und lieben wir C:O:X:! Mit “Pandora´s Box” ist auch
ein musikalisches Zwischenstück enthalten, quasi eine Überleitung
zwischen dem getragen klingenden, langsamen “Cynara”, das anfangs
fast ein wenig an Cure erinnert und den abschließenden zwei Dancehits,
von denen “What´s Going On” der mitreissendere ist. Ein wunderbares,
zeitloses Album voller starker Melodien, das insgesamt gesehen langsamer und
melancholischer als sein Vorgänger ausgefallen ist. Bei Fans von C:O:X:
dürfte “Breaking Point” auf der Liste der besten Alben der Band
ganz weit oben rangieren. Perfekt!
Breaking Point
CD (Pandaimonium/Al!ve)
vorauss. 21.04.2006
Mit den ersten Tönen der neuen Clan Of Xymox-Platte möchte man meinen,
dass der Titel Breaking Point nichts Gutes zu verheißen hat. Schluss mit
zeitlosen Wave Goth-Perlen, stattdessen belangloses Future Pop-Gedudel? Zum
Glück nicht. Denn ein paar verwirrende Beats später hallt einem die
wohl bekannte dunkle Stimme Ronny Moorings' entgegen, Gitarren mischen sich
dazu, und die vorab ausgekoppelte Single entwickelt sich zu einem mächtigen
Song voller Melodie und vor allem Tanzbarkeit. Die perfekte Symbiose aus modernen
elektronischen Sounds und einer atmosphärischen Wave-Attitüde. Grundsätzlich
trifft dies ebenfalls auf die übrigen neun Stücke zu, auch wenn Weak
In My Knees schon das elektronischste Lied bleibt. Zwar befinden sich mit Calling
You Out, She's Dangerous und Be My Friend noch weitere Tanznummern auf dem aktuellen
Album, doch entfalten diese eine noch dichtere, dunklere und eindringlichere
Atmosphäre. Nach dem für meine Begriffe eher einseitigen Vorgänger
Farewell haben es Clan Of Xymox mit Breaking Point wieder geschafft, ein sehr
ausgefeiltes und abwechslungsreiches Werk zu produzieren. Die Gruppe um Ronny
Moorings beweist auch nach 22 Jahren Bandgeschichte, dass sie – ihren eigenen
Stil bewahrend – am Puls der Zeit ist und problemlos an ihre besten Tage
anknüpfen kann. (9)
Silvio Wolff
http://www.re-flexion.de
Licht aus, Spot an! Ronny Moorings meldet sich mit seinem Clan Of Xymox zurück
und präsentiert mit dem neuen Album der Band im wahrsten Sinne des Wortes
einen „Breaking Point“.
Waren die letzten Clan Of Xymox Veröffentlichungen „Notes From The
Underground“ und „Farewell“ noch betont clublastig, so eckt das
neue Werk nur noch vereinzelnd an eben dieses Aushängeschild an.
Vielmehr driften die Niederländer bei den Titeln auf „Breaking Point“
doch häufig in Richtung älterer Vergangenheit ab und zeigen sich charismatisch
düster und phasenweise sogar epochal.
Obwohl die Vorab-Maxi-CD „Weak In My Knees“ fast komplett elektronischer
Art war und die ansonsten von Clan Of Xymox favorisierten Gitarrenriffs in den
Hintergrund stellte, führt „Breaking Point“ die musikalischen
Grundwerte der Single, die gleichzeitig auch Opener des neuen Albums ist nicht
wirklich fort.
Ronny Moorings nimmt den Hörer mit auf eine Reise durch dunkle Welten,
lässt ihn mit ruhigen sphärischen Sounds in Melancholie eintauchen,
um ihm sodann aber auch unverhofft wieder aus dieser mittels flüssiger
Beats zu entreißen.
Es ist bemerkenswert, mit welcher scheinbaren Selbstverständlichkeit Clan
Of Xymox die musikalischen Sprünge zwischen den Epochen der Bandgeschichte
vollzieht und wie beeindruckend die einzelnen Schwerpunkte dieser zu neuen Songs
zusammen wachsen und das Ergebnis in den wunderbaren qualitativ hochwertigen
Pool der Zeitlosigkeit eintaucht.
Neben „Weak In My Knees“ gibt es mit „She´s Dangerous“
und „Be My Friend“ noch weitere sehr tanzbare Stücke auf dem
neuen Album. Das sanfte Gegenlicht dazu bescheint das neue Werk in Form von
wunderbaren tief unter die Haut gehenden atmosphärischen Titeln wie „Eternity“,
„We Never Learn“ oder auch dem Schlusspunkt des Albums „What´s
Going On“.
zurück
http://www.hard-wired.org.uk/GothReviews.htm#Xymox150406
Clan of Xymox are one of those bands that I have been aware of for many years.
I've seen them live a couple of times and enjoyed their music when I've heard
it, but you could never say I was a devoted fan. Clan of Xymox provide soundtracks
for both the dance floor and the boudoir, offering dance beats for the former
and introspective atmospheres for the latter.
I get the strangest urge to wave my hands aloft during "Weak In My Knees".
The synthesisers are to the fore, with a touch of Vangelis circa Bladerunner.
While much dance music is anonymous, singer Ronny’s voice gives the music
a human quality. There's some near submerged guitar, which gives the song an
edge. "Calling You Out" has the synthetic textures of early Simple
Minds. Whether this song is about duels, cricket or something else entirely
is not satisfactorily made clear. There's distorted guitar, which keeps things
interesting.
"She's Dangerous" abandons the harsh sound for a more strummed- acoustic
guitar-led style. There are still electronics in the background – and occasionally
in the foreground – but you no longer feel you're been bludgeoned by dance
beats. Monks go 'ahhh' in the background, which is a selling point for me. I
do worry about Ronny though. The female protagonist of the song doesn't sound
like a healthy influence in his life. Perhaps this song is a salutary tale of
the dangers of Internet dating: "I met her on-line. She took a step back.
I saw her undress. She's like a goddess..."
With its soaring synthesisers, cyclical bass and filigreed guitar "We Never
Learn" sounds like The Cure circa The Head On The Door. Despite its depressing
outlook - this song gives "Sinking" a run for its money in ability
to drain all hope from you - this song is thrilling. Elsewhere "Be My Friend"
sounds spookily like New Order, crossed with the demonic chants of Carmina Burana.
In particular the guitars, Ronny's vocal delivery and the simplicity of the
lyrics all conjure images of Barney Sumner and friends. "All the gifts
you gave to me, it was plain for me to see, that you leave no stone unturned..."
Vintage synths usher in "Cynara". Some flourishes of Eastern promise
keep things interesting. Meanwhile "Pandora's Box" starts like Dead
Can Dance if they'd been regular visitors to Maplins, rather than the World
Music Shop on the High Street. With a woman talking seductively and hysterically
over the top of the languid synths it's like hearing a French film, though it
makes me feel as if I'm missing out on some of the action without the visuals.
We're dancefloor bound for "Under The Wire". I prefer the slower introspective
side of the band – but Ronny's charismatic vocals keep the interest rate
high despite the repetitive beats. "What's Going On" is another song
for the disciples of the glow stick. There's a Gary Numan-esque feel to this
track. Ronny plaintively repeats the title of the song, before asking: "Tell
me, what went wrong?" Then we're led into an instrumental break worthy
of Depeche Mode.
Due the Clan of Xymox's consistency of releasing high quality albums recently
it can be tempting to take the band for granted, but who could have predicted
when the band emerged in 1984 that they would still be a potent force in 2006?
CLAN
OF XYMOX „Breaking Point“
(Pandaimonium/Alive)
Nachdem der Vorbote des neuen Albums, die EP “Weak In My Knees”, schon
für durchweg positive Resonanz sorgte, liegt nun endlich das siebte Studio-Album
der Band um Ronny Moorings vor. Eröffnet wird das Album mit eben genanntem
Titel, welcher sicher bald zu den CLAN OF XYMOX-Klassikern zählen dürfte
und als waschechter Club-Hit bezeichnet werden darf. Es folgt das etwas langsamere,
aber nicht weniger eingängige ´Calling You Out´. Dieser Wechsel
von tanzbaren und ruhigeren, atmosphärischen Songs zieht sich durch das
gesamte Album. ´She’s Dangerous´ und ´Be My Friend´
gehören definitiv in erstere Kategorie, wobei beide Stücke atmosphärisch
noch dichter sind als der Opener. Das Highlight, wenn man das bei einem Album,
bei dem jedes Stück für sich schon eine Single-Auskopplung rechtfertigen
würde, überhaupt sagen kann, besteht in dem langsamen, getragenen
´Eternity´, da der Song besser als die anderen die Essenz, die Einzigartigkeit
von CLAN OF XYMOX widerspiegelt. Ein wunderschön melancholisches Stück,
welches die Hörerschaft von der ersten bis zur letzten Sekunde nicht mehr
los lässt und stark dazu verleitet, die Repeat-Taste zu betätigen.
Doch auch die übrigen Stücke sind von ähnlich hoher Qualität,
es befindet sich nicht eine 'Niete' auf dem Album, welches mit ´What’s
Going On´ mit einem weiteren eingängigen Tanzflächenfüller
endet. Man soll mit Superlativen ja vorsichtig umgehen, aber mit diesem Werk
ist Ronny ein zeitloses Album gelungen, welches beweist, dass CLAN OF XYMOX
auch nach 22 Jahren Bandgeschichte ihre besten Zeiten noch lange nicht hinter
sich haben. Besser geht es kaum! (SP)
Clan
of Xymox exists for over twenty years now and has never delivered a really bad
album. “Breaking Point” unmistakenly carries the Xymox-signature,
without sounding overly dated. On the contrary, the new album is a perfect fusion
of all their different elements: the nostalgic wave atmospheres, danceable synthpop,
contemporary electro, dark gothic rock and of course the typical voice of Ronny
Moorings.
The tone is directly set with the powerful and energetic opening track ‘Weak
in my knees’, after which The Clan manoeuvres between fine uptempo tracks
(’She is dangerous’, ‘What is going on’, ‘Under the
wire’) and haunting electronic goth ballads (’Cynara’, ‘Pandora’s
box’).
“Breaking point” has a tight and clear production and sounds solid
as a rock. I have given up hopes that the band will ever experience a large-scale
breakthrough in the Netherlands, but if there is one album that has that ability,
then it’s this one.
Review
by Jonny EOL -AUDIO
With a previous album called 'Farewell' and a 'Best Of' a year later, one might
have predicted the closure of the Xymox saga. Yet Ronny Mooring is back once
more, and in many respects this album is a continuation of it's predecessor.
Synths are once again pushed to the forefront of many of the tracks, although
guitars do still make their presence felt elsewhere. The uptempo beat and future-poppy
synth lead of album opener 'Weak In My Knees' might again lead one to accuse
Ronny of bandwagon-jumping, but some growly guitar and those uber-dreary vox
leave the listener in no doubt that there's a proper, bona-fide goth at work
here.
The slower, more meanacing 'Calling You Out' follows, possibly an attack against
Ronny's former home town of Amsterdam. It's only after this that we get a taste
of the CoX sound of old - the new-wave melancholy of 'She's Dangerous' followed
by the serene gloomfest of 'Eternally' and 'We Never Learn', two songs echoing
of their 4AD years, all shimmering guitar and funereal synth-texture topped
off with resigned vocals from the terminally morose Ronny, the elements from
which some of the finest of the Clan's tracks were made.
Things get a little more upbeat for a while 'O Fortuna' sampling 'Be My Friend',
before the synth-led gloom of 'Cynara' (I guess they had to refer to a girl's
name at least once) and the pretty instrumental number 'Pandora's Box' before
veering back onto club-friendly territory with 'Under The Wire' and finishing
on 'What's Going On'. Even if this collection doesn't really represent anything
new for Clan of Xymox, it's still an impressive effort that should offer something
to all facets of the band's fanbase. They've still got what it takes to cut
it in the 21st Century scene, which is more than you can say from some 80s goth
survivors.
Still considered one of the pioneers of gothic rock, Clan of Xymox caused a
lot of panic with their last two releases among fans. Rumors started flying
with the release of Farewell that the band was disbanding and the release of
The Best of Clan of Xymox further fueled the rumor mill. Fans will be happy
to know that the release of a brand new studio album is upon us. Breaking Point
is Clan of Xymoxs eleventh full length CD in 22 years. Exhibiting a more mature
sound than on is predecessors, Breaking Point leans more towards dark rock than
gothic rock. Subtle keyboards overlaid with guitars and live drum sounds have
become the focal points of this album. However not to be outdone by the music
alone, Ronny Mooringss deep sensuous vocals accentuate the music and bring forth
the deeper meanings of the songs such as in Calling You Out, Eternally and We
Never Learn. Its impossible to imagine a way that Clan of Xymox could get any
better than they are now. Perhaps they have reached their own Breaking Point?
I
can’t say I have ever been a hardcore fan of Clan of Xymox. I’ve heard
songs here and there and some were pretty cool, some not so much. With their
newest release, I have to say, the songs I remember never sounded like this.
As soon as the first song starts, Weak In My Knees, bands like Sisters of Mercy,
Bauhaus, and even Echo and the Bunnymen came to mind. This entire CD would easily
be classified as Goth-rock. The older songs I recall were more eletro-industrial
in sound. But I admit, the more I listened to this CD the more I liked it. I
really dug the songs Cynara and We never Learn. The latter reminding me of an
older Clan song titled Waterfront. (which is totally BADASS)
All the songs are somber in tone but still manage to have an impact. This is
a really good CD and I’m glad I had the chance to review it, or else I
may have never given it a chance. Overall, this CD should satisfy everyone from
the Hardcore Zombie Goths to the Poser Hot Topic Goths. Enjoy.
At
first listen I was almost disappointed with this release, thinking fondly back
to Medusa and even hidden faces , but upon subsequent listens something started
to grow on me...
Perhaps the variety of sounds, tempos and styles on the CD makes it a truly
remarkable album. And of course there is the typical Xymox sound with the emotional
charged voice of Ronny Moorings; successfully creating new directions within
a sound that remains typical, as we are used to from Clan of Xymox.
'Be my friend' sticks into your head after you heard it just once. The thrill
of passion and mystery is in 'She's dangerous', nostalgia in 'Eternally' and
it's almost like you watch a movie while you listen to 'Pandora's box', the
soundtrack to a passionate play.
As we're used to from Clan of Xymox the album shows a perfect mix between electronics
and guitars with truly great vocals. The lyrics are expressive. For those who
like the sound of Clan of Xymox, this release is a must have; it's one of the
best albums, which shows that it's possible to express a kind of art that's
familiar while it is original too.
Very
good sound, some sngs are very catchy (e.g. Weak in my knees and Be my friend).
A good variety of old-school sounds and newer electro-influences.
Also some nice down-tempo tracks.
Only the last track (What's going on) sounds a bit to poppy for me...
Great album!
Clan of Xymox exists for over twenty years now and has never delivered a really bad album. “Breaking Point” unmistakenly carries the Xymox-signature, without sounding overly dated. On the contrary, the new album is a perfect fusion of all their different elements: the nostalgic wave atmospheres, danceable synthpop, contemporary electro, dark […]
Yesternight
pl
Clan Of Xymox Breaking Point The unquestionable legend of gothic scene is back!
Dark, mysterious, incredible - as usual...The CD "Breaking point"
next on the long list of dark soundscapes features wonderful compositions; the
harbinger that the promotes the album in Poland - "Eternally", enigmatic
"Cynara or hypnotic "Pandora's Box" are just some of them...
Here we have the return of Ronny Moorings and his Clan Of Xymox,three years after 2003's "Farewell.."."Breaking Point" then and the title states it clear.The album kick off with "Weak In My Kness",a club-hit already in goth-clubs around the world while "Calling You Out" reminds me the Xymox era and generally has a 90's feeling...excellent,one of my favorites."She's In Dangerous" has the classic CoX sound,as it should be."Cynara" is surely one of the best tracks of the album...It feels very personal and it is both simplistic in terms of arrangement and viscerally complicated by way of the emphasis on atmosphere.In conclusion its a great comeback by the Dutch pioneers.Two thumbs up!
“Weak
in the Knees” is the obligatory club cut meant to keep their music pumping
on the club floors for old and new fans alike. In spite of the decided energy
of this track, lyrically it paints a morose craving for unrequited love. “Calling
You Out” will become an anthemic battle cry for the underground scene.
“What happened to our scene?/The fire must be rekindled/In this cold dying
stream/...Maybe I am just too naïve/Maybe it’s just you and me.”
For those who may have noticed, the underground scene has metamorphosed as a
strange animal. Once the dark clad club revelers were the ones of note, and
now we see little more than Hot Topic knockoffs without any understanding of
the underground dark scene that came before them. “Eternally” takes
us to that point in life when we come in contact with an old love and find that
the feelings of affection remain under the surface but unresolved. “We
Never Learn” is the crux of Breaking Point. Essentially we go through this
life thinking that there is a sense of completion at the end of an undertaking.
Instead, all we are left with are more questions so overwhelming that they can
break us apart when we finally wake up and realize that we aren’t so in
control of our destiny as we would like to think. “Be My Friend” mixes
“O Fortuna” into the track, giving it the decided old world marriage
towards today’s electro beats.
Breaking Point is a methodic blend of guitar chords around the electronic elements,
which punctuate the emotional component inherent with the lyrics. Thematically,
this release intentionally encapsulates poignant emotions unlike any others
of the past. For some, their breaking point can be unrequited love, either due
from an untimely breakup or from a relationship losing the heat of romance to
become nothing more than platonic. While there are a number of club friendly
tracks here, the crux of the work has a lyrical focus unlike anything the band
has done in the past.
Mike V
Amsterdam’s
gifts to the world don’t end with legal marijuana usage and ubiquitous
prostitution; it also boasts a fluent musical scene laden with different layers
of sound. Clan of Xymox is one of The Netherlands’ wonderful exports to
the world stage. Their latest release, Breaking Point, will surely please lovers
of all things dark and gothic.
Unlike some industrial music artists who elaborate too much with samples and
monotone vocals, Clan Of Xymox utilizes different measures and tones to create
an unique experience for either the more than 40-year-old fat club kid or the
ultra-hip goth child who just woke up from their coffin, put on some white face
and dark eyeliner and went gallivanting off to a masquerade.
Breaking Point’s sound is different, to say the least, as it flourishes
with different velocities of structures and melodies harmonized by a multitude
of synthesizer chords, drum beats and paralyzing instrumentations that create
an illusion of a full live band playing in your living room.
“She’s Dangerous” delves into the quirky, old-fashioned techno
beat of the late ‘80s or early ‘90s with catchy hooks, danceable beats
and a more moody vocal range creating a gothic influence.
“Calling You Out” however, brings back the “new romantic”
phase of the early ‘80s with hints of light pop melodies, a tight rhythm
section and a more luminous vocal range reminiscent of early Nick Cave or The
Cure.
Clan Of Xymox doesn’t disappoint their adoring fans with Breaking Point;
it’s a mixture of dance beats and pop hits rolled into a scroll of electronic
and industrial tightly tucked into a ball of wax.
Francis Petruziello
"Featuring searing guitar lines, strong bass sounds mixed with atmospheric and powerful synths and Ronny Mooring's deep, sensuous and harmonic voice 'Breaking Point' delivers all of Xymox's trademark sounds and references offered in their iconic and unique style. This 'classic' sound is no more evident than on album opener and first single Weak In My Knees - a club hit par excellence : mighty tunes, powerful chorus line, a perfect sing-a-long melody which catches the listener in an instant. The following track Calling You Out shows them from their darker, even more aggressive side with straight guitar lines and no compromises, while She’s Dangerous is yet another dancefloor hit - complete with infectious synth lines, driving rhythms and a permenant hook. Eternally, We Never Learn and Cynara are songs that will capture the hearts of their older fans immediately - quiet, almost introspective, slow, thoughtful and eternal. Be My Friend presents another powerful club hit while album closers Pandora’s Box - forms an interlude into the aggressive song Under The Wire (a track that demonstrates perfectly the rockier side of Clan Of Xymox) and finally What’s Going On? a melodic masterpiece that demands replaying."
Listening
to Clan of Xymox’s new release on Metropolis, Breaking Point (2006), is
like slipping into a favorite pair of well-worn blue jeans. Even though the
sound has been updated in places, the album is very much in keeping with CoX’s
return to its electro-goth roots and Moorings’ voice and guitar speak to
one like old friends.
The album begins with a bang with "Weak in My Knees," an up-tempo
track more reminiscent of Funker Vogt or Front 242 than Clan of Xymox and one
sure to find a home on club dancefloors. However, the band migrates easily back
into familiar territory with the second track, "Calling You Out" which,
in many respects, seems to be the song most representative not only of the album,
but of Clan of Xymox’s return to its goth roots more generally. The "you"
being called out in the title is the goth scene as a whole as Mooring questions,
"Where are all the others? / What happened to our scene?" and then
asserts, "The fire must be rekindled / In this cold dying stream."
As on Farewell, Breaking Point features a mix of up-tempo floor-fillers and
more meditative atmospheric tracks, many of which are built around themes of
hynotic love and loss. The Cure-esque "We Never Learn" laments the
perversity of human nature while the spritely "Be My Friend" makes
interesting, if perhaps gratuitous, use of sound bites and joins "Weak
in My Knees" and "Calling You Out" in having clear dancefloor
potential.
Overall, with Breaking Point Clan of Xymox has released a well-produced, enjoyable
album that certainly won’t disappoint CoX fans and is likely to win them
new ones as well.
Here
we are once again with Ronny Moorings and his Clan of Xymox. After the triumph
of 2003's "Farewell" I wondered where he could go from such a lofty
perch. With the new "Breaking Point", he has stayed where it's safe
and comfortable.
"Weak in My Knees" was unremarkable as a single and it's not really
much better on album. It is, however, disturbingly futurepoppy. "Calling
You out" sounds a bit more like the Xymox I know and its lyrical content
asks some pertinent questions about the scene which, after over 23 years, the
Clan still find themselves in. I could tell you what I think but that's another
story...
By the time the third track "She's Dangerous" rolls out it seems,
at last, that we are finally listening to Clan of Xymox. Moorings has been hanging
about in chatrooms, it would seem. Naughty boy. "Breaking Point" is
much more electronically based than previous efforts have been and it works
generally; those classic Xymox guitars are right where they need to be.
"Cynara" I really do think is the stand-out track of the album. It
feels very personal and it is both simplistic in terms of arrangement and viscerally
complicated by way of the emphasis on atmosphere. You won't find any new tricks
with the Clan's new one but as the the sound of this Dutch institution is so
unique, that's just fine.
PETER MARKS
CLAN
OF XYMOX - Breaking Point (2006)Im Gegensatz zu dem, was eigentlich nach beiden
letzten Veröffentlichungen zu erwarten war, scheinen sich CLAN OF XYMOX,
zumindest im Ansatz, an ihre Ursprünge zurück zu besinnen. Im Vordergrund
steht nicht mehr der Future Pop, sondern ein ausgeglichener Mix aus Electro
und den alten Wave-Stücken.
Besonders gefallen mir hier She's Dangerous und Cynara, zwar rückwärts
orientiert, aber das sind CLAN OF XYMOX wie man sie eigentlich erwartet. Bleibt
abschließend zu hoffen, das zukünftige Releases in diese Richtung
gehen.
Clan of Xymox bestaat al ruim twintig jaar en heeft nog nooit een écht
slecht album afgeleverd. 'Breaking point' draagt onmiskenbaar het Xymox-stempel,
zonder overdreven gedateerd over te komen. Sterker nog, op het nieuwe album
komt alles perfect bij elkaar: de wave-sferen van weleer, dansbare synthpop,
moderne electro, duistere gothrock en natuurlijk de typische stem van Ronny
Moorings. De toon wordt gezet met de krachtige en opzwepende albumopener 'Weak
in my knees', waarna de Clan laveert tussen uitstekende uptemo tracks ('She
is dangerous', 'What is going on', 'Under the wire') en bezwerende elektronische
gothballads ('Cynara', 'Pandora's box'). 'Breaking point' is strak en kraakhelder
geproduceerd en staat als een huis. Ik heb de moed al opgegeven dat de groep
ooit nog op grote schaal zal doorbreken in Nederland, maar als daar één
album voor kan zorgen, is het deze wel.
For over two decades now Ronny has be producing his own style of electro-influenced goth rock. Breaking Point, the 7th full length from Clan of Xymox, is no different. From the slower, sweeping pieces like Eternally and Pandora’s Box to the more upbeat, dance floor orientated tracks such as Weak in My Knees and What’s Going On?, Clan of Xymox continue to share their unique brand of music. She’s Dangerous, with its acoustic guitars, raw beats, and smooth vocals, was by immediate favorite. Ronny’s distinctive crooning flows effortlessly across the more 80’s tempo’d goth inspired music. Under the Wire is an up tempo piece with a pulsating rhythm, suave vocals, and a distant beat. Weak in My Knees, which was the first single released from Breaking Point, is by far the most accessible and dance floor friendly track on the CD. Jumpy rhythms, addictive vocals and rumbling synths are joined with Ronny’s captivating vocals. Even though it seems to me that only the technical parts of Clan of Xymox’s sound has changed over the years, Ronny’s unique talent for keeping his music and style original and nearly unchanged since the beginning is the biggest selling point. After all, it is the distinctive brand of music that got him his notoriety.
*
Clan Of Xymox : Breaking Point **** (Pandaimonium / Avr. 06)
* Avec ce titre et sa pochette évocateurs, on pourrait penser que Ronny
est arrivé au terme de quelque chose, mais de quoi ? D’ailleurs,
les paroles du single "Weak in my knees" qui débute l’album
vont également dans ce sens. Pourtant, musicalement, c’est une impression
toute autre qui se dégage, s’il est un terme abouti, il s’agit
alors d’une fin de période d’essai, voire d’une apogée.
Le Clan est toujours sur le chemin qu’il avait commencé à
tracer avec "Notes From The Underground" : des sonorités modernes,
teintées d’electro-dark, signes d’une évolution que
Ronny avait désirée progressive pour garder son public en alerte
sans le bousculer. Pourtant, l’effet escompté avait raté,
du moins en France, et si "Notes From The Underground" reste ici certainement
l’album le plus controversé de Clan Of Xymox, le déterminisme
de Ronny a su faire la part des choses et c’est avec "Farewell"
en 2003 qu’il avait su reconvaincre ses fans échaudés grâce
à un mélange cette fois des plus réussis, d’electro,
de synth/wave et de guitare. "Breaking Point" arrive en phase avec
cette évolution et en est peut-être la part la plus aboutie à
ce jour. Ce qui est particulièrement énervant avec cet album,
c’est que même en voulant le détruire, on se trouve confronté
à des points positifs qui viennent contrecarrer toute critique négative.
Exemple concret avec "Be my friend", on ne peut pas faire plus pompeux
que ce sample électronisé de "Carmina Burana". Et bien
pourtant, ce tube est efficace, le sample ne plombe pas, n’est pas en surdose,
et le reste coule à merveille. Rageant ! On écoutera même
avec surprise le génial "Pandora’s Box" qui n’a rien
à voir avec le reste mais qui n’en trouve pas moins sa place, offrant
une petite pause originale et particulièrement glauque. Aucun morceau
n’est à jeter et depuis "Creatures", on n’a jamais
autant ressenti de vie, de sincérité et d’intégrité
à s’abreuver de la magique voix de Ronny. Si bien qu’on ne
peut même plus dire, quand on l’a pensé, que Clan Of Xymox
est un groupe goth de base pour goths de base et qu’en conséquence
tout cela baigne dans le médiocre et la facilité. "Breaking
Point" positionne le groupe à sa place, qu’elle soit mal vue
ou non, c’est du moins la sienne et la bonne ! C’est donc l’album
des vérités rétablies, ou des vérités tout
court…
One of the pioneers
of gothic rock is back with a new album. Weird? Well, yeah, because I was already
getting in panic last time when they released " Farewell" and a best
of. Rumours were here and there spreading that the band would call it quits
and honestly it was a plausible rumour.
But that was just bull of part of a well keened out PR stunt so it turned out.
Anyhow, they caught my attention with "Breaking Point" as title again
as well.
A breaking point you say?Well , not entirely, the Cox do what they are good
at here and that is realising addictive and effective melodic moods gothic music
without losing themselves in endless dwelling like so many other goth acts appear
to be enjoying.
No , on "Breaking Point" they bring an even more mature sound that
is alienating them more and more from the lesser gods. There is a bigger stress
on the guitars which get a darker rock taint, but it stays very much the COX
sound we all love and enjoy. Add to that Ronny Moorings's deep vocals and you
can only but be perplex of what you hear. The summit of this pot pourri can
be heard on " Weak In My Knees" where guitars and synths are 100%
balanced out. Another highlight is " She's Dangerous" and there are
many others I could name here. Honestly, of the 5 albums I have from the COX
this is definitely a band showing itself in its full maturity. They hit and
did not miss at all with an interesting balance between upbeat & more moody
songs!
Weak In My Knees E.P.
Clan
Of Xymox ist sicherlich eine Band, die man nicht mehr großartig vorstellen
muß. Seit gut 2 Jahrzehnten verwöhnen die aus den Niederlanden stammende
Band die Wave- & Gothikgemeinde mit hervorragendem Output. Und knapp 1 1ž2
Jahre nach ihrem Best-Of-Album erscheint nun mit der Maxi-CD „Weak In My
Knees“ ein Vorbote für das im April erscheinende neue Album "Breaking
Point".
Unter dem Titelsong muß man sich einen klassischen COX-Song vorstellen,
der sofort in Bein und Kopf übergeht – vor allem Ronny Moorings sehr
prägnante Stimme sorgt für ein hohes Erkennungspotential. Auffallend
ist, dass der Sound wieder mehr Richtung Elektronik geht. Auch die Remixe von
z.B. Grendel und Azoic zeigen diesen Trend auf – wobei die dargebotenen
Remixe zwar ganz nett sind, aber sicherlich jetzt nicht zu den Überfliegern
gehören. Etwas mehr Abwechslung hätte hier sicherlich nicht geschadet.
Abgerundet wird die trotzdem sehr empfehlenswerte Maxi mit 2 neuen Versionen
des Klassikers „Michelle“, der es seinerzeit nicht mit auf die Best-Of-Cd
geschafft hat. Und hier zeigt sich, dass ein neues Gewand dem Song in keinstem
Falle geschadet hat. Vor allem der Deep In Pain Remix von Destroid aka Daniel
Myer (Haujobb) klingt sehr überzeugend. Zu guter Letzt gibt es mit „Calling
You Out“ einen weiteren neuen Song als Vorgeschmack zum neuen Silberling,
sowie das Video zu „Weak In My Knees“.
Autor: thono
CLAN
OF XYMOX - WEAK IN MY KNEES
Hetgeen sinds jaren wordt omschreven als het ‘typisch Xymox geluid’
zou je ook kunnen duiden met het fingerspitzengefühl van Ronny Moorings
om als geen ander en zonder schijnbaar veel moeite tot een ideale mix van synthesizers
en gitaren te komen. Persoonlijk beschouw ik Clan of Xymox als de ‘oersoep
der gothische muziek’, maar dat komt natuurlijk ook omdat ik vele bands
die als grondlegger van wat gothic is gaan heten, niet zozeer kan waarderen.
Maar dit even terzijde.
Toch is enige bewondering op z’n plaats voor wie al ruim twintig jaar middels
een zeer bekend geluid met de jaren niet minder vernieuwend voor de dag is gaan
komen, zo ook met de meest recente release ‘Weak in my knees’.
Het titelnummer is weer een krachtig staaltje ÑXymox sound’, dat
het ook op de dansvloer niet verkeerd zal doen. En er kan ook nog eens afgewisseld
worden, met dank aan The Azoic, Dimitri en Grendel voor hun remixen van het
titelnummer.
Een nieuwe opname van ‘Michelle’ (nog node gemist op de Best Of cd
uit 2004, hier tevens in een remix van Destroid aanwezig) en de nieuwe song
‘Calling you out’ completeren deze cd, waarop als extraatje ook nog
de videoclip van ‘Weak in my knees’ is te aanschouwen.
Clan Of Xymox - Weak in My Knees (Pandaimonium)
The Godfathers of Goth techno have released a European-only E.P. And the seven
songs (three remixes of “Weak in My Knees", two remixes of “Michelle",
and an ominously wonderful song, “Calling You Out") won't disappoint
any of their fans and any fan really of EBM and dark electro. The first mix
of “Weak in My Knees" is the best and illustrates just how state-of-the-art
Xymox's sound is and has been since their return to form in the latter '90s.
This Dutch band ripped apart the electro scene in 1984 on the 4AD label with
the release of the seminal album Clan of Xymox and now 22 years later sound
as vital as ever. The two mixes of the song, “Michelle" are extraordinary
contrasts in just what this band is capable of. The first mix is a melancholy
funky dance lament to a lover, while the second mix, with the acoustic guitars
driving the riff, show Xymox can hold their own with the occasional reference
to Cure influences that pop up now and then. Hopefully this E.P. Is a prelude
to a full-blown album coming out soon. (Jim Harris)
Zwei Jahre nach seiner Best Of Veröffentlichung meldet sich RonnyMoorings
alias Clan Of Xymox mit der Vorab EP zum kommenden Album zurück. Der Titeltrack
Weak In My Knees vereint dabei alles, was ein echter Clubhit braucht.Er ist
tanzbar und hat eine einprägsame melodie, alles in gewohnter Clan Of Xymox
Qualität.Auch die drei Remixe von Weak In My Knees sind nicht zu verachten,vor
allem der Azoic Mix besticht durch seine ganz eigene Interpretation des Titels.
Das eher gitarrenlastige Calling You Out sowie eine neue Version des Titels
Michelle bohren sich ebenfalls sofort in den Gehörgang und sind von dort
nicht so schnell wieder zu vertreiben. Weak In My Knees gehört in jede
CD sammlung und weckt die Neugier auf da im Frühjahr erscheinende neue
Album, dessen Titel bisher noch nicht feststeht.
Babett Jahn
Clan Of Xymox "Weak In My Knees"
Mit „Weak In My Knees“ schlagen Clan Of Xymox knapp 1 1ž2 Jahre nach
dem Erscheinen ihres „Best Of“ Albums die erste Seite eines neuen
Kapitels auf. Der Titelsong bündelt sämtliche binnen der letzten Monate
gesammelte Energien der Band um Ronny Moorings und wandelt diese in innovative
von einer ausgewogenen Mixtur aus Elektro- und Gitarrenklängen bestimmte
Sounds um.
Gewannen bei den letzten Clan Of Xymox Veröffentlichungen noch die Gitarreneinsätze
immer mehr an Bedeutung, so verlagert „Weak In My Knees“ diesen Schwerpunkt
wieder eindeutig in Richtung Elektronik. Der Titel geht im wahrsten Sinne des
Wortes „richtig ab“ und wird die elektronischen Tanztempel des Kontinents
sicherlich binnen kürzester zeit erobern. Ronny Moorings´ Stimme
legt sich charismatisch und dunkel über die Sounds und zieht den Hörer
unvermittelt in ihren Bann.
Unter den sieben Tracks der neuen Clan Of Xymox Ep befinden sich neben vier
verschiedenen Interpretationen des Titelstücks sodann ebenfalls zwei Remixe
von „Michelle“, einem Titel, der aus Platzgründen nicht mehr
für das seinzeitige „Best Of“ Album Berücksichtigung fand
sowie der exklusive neue Titel „Calling You Out“, ein erster Leckerbissen
des für das Frühjahr 2006 angekündigten neuen Clan Of Xymox Albums.
Und als speziellen Bonus halten Clan Of Xymox dann auch noch das offizielle
Promotion Video für den Genuss auf dem PC für die Fans bereit. Alles
in allem eine Veröffentlichung, die viel qualitative Musik fürs Geld
bietet und nicht zuletzt auch aufgrund der diversen Remixe der Songs von The
Azoic, oder auch Grendel die musikalische Maskenvielfalt der Sounds der Niederländer
aufzeigt.
© Ingo Möller
Les
dernières "prouesses" du Hollandais Ronny Moorings risquent
de diviser leur monde.Weak In My Knees, EP paraissant en prélude au nouvel
album de son célèbre Clan Of Xymox. lui fait adopter une posture
frontalement dance floor. Le beat ne cherche donc pas de véritable modulation
et les volumes rythmiques, lourds, visent bel et bien le boost constant d'un
ensemble ne gardant des guitares que de discrètes apparitions ( le single"
Weak In My Knees").Le référentiel gothique , prégnant
sur des albums tels que les excellents Hidden Faces ou Creatures, tend a s'estomper
depuis Notes from the Underground et surtout Farewell. Ronny Moorings poursuit
sur cette lancée mais réintroduit cependant des voix relativement
sépulcrales. Il génère au milieu du EP quelques titres
qui reviennent partiellement a ce Clan Of Xymox que préféreront
les adeptes de la "période du retour"; "Calling You Out"
et a un moindre niveau le remix de "Michelle" ( par Destroid alais
Haujobb)renouent avec une forme plus glaciale et évocatrice,précédées
par la petit clou du spectacle, une nouvelle version studio de "Michelle"
réalisée en 2006 et qui sans apporter d'importantes nouveautés,
donne au EP une respiration nécessaire, face aux multiples et aléatoires
tentatives de remix du single.
Emmanuelle Hennequin
Weak In My Knees
Da die Halbwertszeit
des letzten Albums "Farewell" (Herbst 2004) nun überschritten
sein dürfte und die zwischenzeitliche Best Of ja nicht wirklich neues Material
bot, bieten Clan of Xymox dem geneigten Hörer mit der EP "Weak In
My Knees" nun neues Material, das gleichzeitig auch einen Vorgeschmack
auf das Mitte April erscheinende neue Studioalbum geben soll.
Dieser Vorgeschmack ist sicherlich ein guter. Der Titeltrack der EP weiß
zu überzeugen. Er schafft es gekonnt, tanzbare elektronische Klänge
mit einer sehr riff-freudigen Gitarre zu kombinieren. Das Augenmerk wurde hier
gleichermaßen auf Eingängigkeit wie auch auf die Tanzfläche
gelegt - so erschaffen Clan of Xymox ein eingängiges, schönes Stück
rockig angehauchte elektronische Musik mit melancholisch angefïärbtem
Charakter. Um dem Stück noch weitere Facetten abzugewinnen, finden sich
zusätzlich drei Remixe auf der EP: The Azoic verstärken den elektronischen
Charakter, indem sie die Gitarre unter sonst weitestgehender Beibehaltung der
ursprünglichen Arrangements weglassen, der "Dimitri NI Mix" gibt
dem Stück einen leicht technoiden Charakter und Grendel geben dem Stück
eine leicht eigene Note, ohne dabei aber die Härte ihrer eigenen Musik
zu erreichen (was dem Stück vermutlich auch eher geschadet hätte).
Zur Vervollständigung findet sich auf der CD auch noch der zugehörige
Clip.
Ein Blick auf die drei weiteren Titel ist ebenso lohnenswert. So gibt "Calling
You Out" einen weiteren guten Vorgeschmack auf das kommende Album. Es ist
etwas nachdenklicher, dabei aber doch tanzbar und stärker von den elektronischen
Klängen geprägt, wenngleich auch hier die verzerrte Gitarre nicht
vermisst wird. Zusätzlich gibt es noch zwei Varianten des Klassikers "Michelle":
Eine Neuaufnahme unter Beibehaltung der Originalarrangements, die kaum authentischer
Xymox sein könnte, dazu ein Remix von Destroid, der daraus ein düsteres
Elektronik-Stück macht. Eine interessante Kombination, die aber doch recht
logisch erscheint - schließlich ist die Band von Amsterdam nach Leipzig
gezogen, womit Daniel Myer sozusagen ein Nachbar geworden ist. Und gute Arbeit
hat er alle mal geleistet.
Zur Abrundung befinden sich in der EP die Texte zum Titelstück und zu "Calling
You Out". "I feel weak in my knees" - eine Textzeile, die es
nach dieser EP unter Umständen vom einen oder anderen Tanzflächenbesucher
häufiger zu hören geben könnte.
Veröffentlichung: 13.01.2006
Autor: Marius Meyer
diese CD kaufen
After the "Best Of"-cd Cox moved to Leipzig( Germany). While we're eagerly awaiting the new full lenght this ep comes and hits us by real surprise.The title song marks an important evolution in sound where the basis of Ronny Moorings became more electronic minded. This is the perfect symbiosis between great wave guitars and electronic power. This new song stands for power and dynamism! 3 remixes have been recorded. First comes a cool remix by the Azoic ( confirming the electronic potential of the original version) next one by Dimitri NI and finally one by Grendel ( which is by the way isn't his best one Grendel ever did). Another new song is entitled " CAlling You Out"which comes closer to what COX has always used to.The familiar " Michelle"song has been featured in a Re recorded version while also remixed by Destroid. None of the versionstotally convince me although they're more than simply b-side songs. An interesting evolution for this legendary band!
BEST OF CLAN OF XYMOX
When you have a history that spans 20 years and includes more than 30 releases
(including CD singles and remix albums) under their name as Clan of Xymox and
as Xymox, it seems perfectly appropriate to release this "Best Of"
album. Their history and the music provided throughout that history is very
impressive. This album brings all of that out in the form of 14 strong selections
and proves to the world the wonderful talents this group has portrayed over
the years. From the very beginning their music has been stunning and they have
only built on that one album after another.
I have to say that when I receive a CD like this and have it in my hands and
CD player, it is one of the easiest reviews I have to do. As I look back over
the years and pick up each album and flip through it or listen to it in it's
entirety, each of these tracks bring back so many memories and thoughts about
when I picked up each one over the years. There is no doubt that these are some
of the best songs released by this group, and some of the best released in the
related electro-goth genres.
The album contains the original versions of some of the later recordings, but
the special treat for long-time fans who probably already have all of this material
is the new recordings or alternate mixes. Of the fourteen tracks, half of them
are either alternate mixes or new recordings. The songs from the earlier albums
have been newly recorded including the very popular "Louise", "Back
Door", "A Day", "Muscoviet Mosquito" and "Stranger".
These are extremely well done as the moving beats and combination of guitars,
solid synth-lines and Ronny's emotional and solid vocals combine for masterpiece
after masterpiece. The alternate mixes include "I Want You Now" and
"Into Extremes", two of the latest popular tracks from their later
works.
The order on the album provides a nice variety by mixing them up so their not
really done in chronological order. The popular bomastic track "There's
No Tomorrow" kicks it off and we go from one club hit to another as we
go from "Jasmine and Rose", the huge hit that brought them back into
the spotlight of the goth scene after a few years and then to "I Want You
Now". We jump back several years for "A Day" and the dreamy classic
Clan of Xymox track "Louise". It's not all about driving club tracks
with their history and thus the appearance of the popular single "Consolation"
with it's downtempo style is appropriate.
This is how it all shapes up and this ends up being a great treat for new and
old fans alike. Having these great tracks in one spot for me doesn't mean I'll
stop listening to the individual album, but as a DJ makes it easy to have them
in one spot. A great addition to any collection. Don't hesitate to pick it up!
Rating: 5/5
Almost every band will reach the point, if they exit long enough that is, in wich they will make a best of cd. A special thing is that the fans themselves got a saying in which tracks should be chosen to appear on this compilation. Furthermore it is striking that the tracklist of the cd is not chronological, but compiled in a way that songs from every period of Clan of Xymox are placed more ‘at random’ on the cd. This makes it easier to get used to the new versions of some of the old songs. . ‘A Day’, ‘Louise’, ‘Muscoviet Musquito’, ‘Backdoor’ and ‘Stranger’. Although i miss the sounds and exact atmosphere of the old versions, i really want to state that the new versions are absolutely tasteful, as it are in no way cheap futurepop derivates from the original tracks. Of ‘Into Extremes’ and ‘I Want You Now’ there are new mixes present on this compilation. The choice of tracks is always something to complain about, but as it is done now it has resulted in a very nice overview of the discography of Clan of Xymox altogether. Which is exactly the intention of this cd ofcourse. This is a very nice record and a excellent introduction to anyone not (really) familiar with Holland’s pride in gothic realms.
Nach
nunmehr 20 Jahren veröffentlichen Clan Of Xymox nun endlich eine "The
Best Of" CD. Die 14 Titel sind gezielt ausgewählt und spiegeln das
musikalische Schaffen einer der eindrucksvollsten Dark Wave Bands der letzten
Jahrzehnte wider. Angefangen hat alles im September 1984 mit der Veröffentlichung
des Mini-Albums "Subsequent Pleasures".
Darauf folgten dann noch zwei weitere CDs, bis Ronny Moorings sich sodann entschloss,
sich neu finden zu wollen. Das Resultat dieses Vorhabens erblickte dann mit
einer ersten Veröffentlichung im Jahr 1988 unter dem Namen Xymox das Licht
der Welt.
Erst im jahr 1997 besann er sich wieder auf seine Ursprünge und einer Wiederbelebung
des Clan Of Xymox stand nichts mehr im Wege. Alben wie "Hidden Faces",
"Tales From The Underground" oder auch das letzte Werk "Farewell"
machten deutlich, dass die Entscheidung, zu den eigenen Wurzeln und zum alten
Bandnamen zurückzukehren die richtige gewesen ist.
"The Best Of Clan Of Xymox" beinhaltet ausnahmslos Songs der offiziellen
Clan Of Xymox Releases. Doch anlässlich dieser Veröffentlichung hat
man nicht einfach auf die Originale zurückgegriffen, sondern diverse Titel
neu abgemischt und teilweise sogar zusätzlich komplett neu eingespielt.
Titel wie "Jasmine And Rose", This World", "There´s
No Tomorrow" oder auch "Muscoviet Musquito" sind einfach gigantisch
und unterstreichen einmal mehr die Einmaligkeit dieser großarteigen Band
- Clan Of Xymox sind die besseren Sisters Of Mercy!
After
a 20 year career, one of the best known and highly revered electro-goth bands
of all time releases its first “best of” collection, simply titled,
“The Best of Clan of Xymox”. COX has assembled 14 tracks voted on
by the fans to best represent this treasured act, and its imaginative, groundbreaking
music. “The Best Of” should serve as a great jumping on point for
new fans as well as a must have for the initiated, because COX have re-recorded
and re-mixed many of the tracks. Featured here as re-recordings are “A
Day”, “Louis”, “Muscoviet Musquito”, “Back Door”,
and “Stranger”. Re-mixes include “I Want You Now” and “Into
Extremes”. Tracks that appear in their original form are, “There’s
No Tomorrow”, “Jasmine & Rose”, “Consolation”,
“This World”, “Innocent”, “Out of the Rain”, and
“Farewell”.
Vocalist Ronny Moorings offers his reasons for these changes inside of the extensive
accompanying booklet, and reminisces about his memories of the tracks as well.
I will say in his defense of some die hard fans out there that the re-recording
and mixing of these songs does not hurt their integrity, it only enhances it,
as the artists deem them the definitive versions. The production is crisper
and the sound much cleaner than previously released versions of the songs, and
not much else has changed about them. Overall, this is an in depth look at the
career of one of the genre’s best and most imitated musical giants and
is an essential edition to any fan's collection.Added: Tuesday, September 28,
2004
Reviewer: Justin Rowland
With
fourteen classic COX tracks adorning this album, it’s hard to see exactly
who its aimed at. But to be fair, I feel this album falls into a little bit
of each of the following camps – attracting fans of their more recent works
to some of COX’s older material, and giving long standing fans some well
known tracks but with different mixes. It’s a good split, and I feel it
works well.
So what do we have on this epic then? Well, the album kicks off with ‘There’s
no tomorrow’ from the recent Farewell album. This is a blinding track,
and a good introduction to what is to come.
Moving onto ‘Jasmine and Rose’, taking us back to the roots of the
COX sound – this is dark Goth at it’s best! Turn out the lights and
Goth your little socks off to this. Classic Goth guitars, dark imposing vocals,
this is superb.
‘I want you now’ is a new mix, and works well. Still distinctly COX,
and a great track to wreck out to. Actually, of all the tracks on here that
have been re-mixed for this release, none of them (in my mind) detract from
the original versions. This is a relief for die hard COX fans.
‘A Day’ follows on from this – this is a new recording and a
new mix for this album – powerful and dynamic, this is a dance floor filler
if ever there was one. Sleek and imposing, punchy melodies cannot help but get
you up and moving. Brilliant stuff!
‘Louise’ again is a new recording and mix – more mellow and thoughtful,
this track is typically flowery-goth at it’s finest. Acoustic guitars and
a progressive bassline accompany the laid back vocals.
‘Consolation’, ‘This World’ and ‘Innocent’ follow
on from here, and are all original mixes. What can I say, it’s great to
hear them again, and it’s about at this point that you realise that the
music tempo balance on this album has been struck just right. I put this down
partly to the fact that the calibre of tracks on this release is so bloody good.
‘Into Extremes’ is a new recording and mix – it’s dark and
foreboding into brings us to the distinctive COX euphoric audio climax as all
the instruments come in, to launch the song properly. Nice!
‘Out of the rain’ comes crashing in after this, and it’s back
to the dance floor for all you old school Goths out there.
‘Muscoviet Musquito’ and ‘Back Door’, again are new mixes
and recordings, and again do not detract too much from the originals. It’s
great to hear ‘Back Door’ again, as for an old Goth like me, this
brings back some fond memories.
‘Farewell’, and original mix follows this – nice to see the album
top and tailed by relatively new tracks – this one demands to be turned
up, and allowed to wash over you.
The album finishes with a new recording of ‘Stranger’, and this sombre
yet melodic number is a fitting end to what is to my mind, a great album. Possibly
one of the best ‘best of’ albums I’ve heard for a long time.
What can I say, this album will appeal to new and old COX fans alike, and is
not a waste of cash at all. It’s a great introduction to the world of COX
for new fans, and a complete blast from the past for die hard fans too.
Buy this now!
Best-Of-Alben
haftet mitunter ein Leichengeruch an, der nur zu überdeutlich signalisiert,
dass die Band im hier und jetzt nicht mehr wirklich etwas zu sagen hat.
Dass es dennoch rühmliche Ausnahmen gibt, beweisen Clan Of Xymox mit dem
vorliegenden, liebevoll kompilierten Best-Of-Album, das Zäsur und Ausblick
zugleich ist.
Die Geschichte dieser niederländischen Band ist ebenso bewegt wie wechselhaft,
schwankend zwischen ihren „Gothic“-Wurzeln und dem Bemühen, sich
temporären Trends zu ergeben.
Clan Of Xymox-Kopf Ronny Moorings hat sich bei der vorliegenden Compilation
entschlossen, die Werke, die er unter dem verkürzten Namen „Xymox“
veröffentlichte (also Alben wie das zweifellos überzeugende „Twist
Of Shadows“ und die weniger berauschenden Oeuvres „Phoenix“ oder
auch „Metamorphosis“) komplett zu ignorieren und sich dafür auf
die Werke zu konzentrieren, die Clan Of Xymox über die Jahre zu einer historischen
Größe erwachsen ließen.
Ein schlauer Plan.
Die Grundidee war, jeweils 2 Songs von jedem Clan Of Xymox-Album zu wählen,
dabei den Fans ein gewisses Mitspracherecht zu gewähren -sowie die historischen
4AD- Aufnahmen entweder zu remixen oder komplett neu einzuspielen.
Heraus gekommen ist in der Tat eine Zusammenstellung, die (kaum) einen Wunsch
offen lässt:
Die zeitliche Distanz zwischen der ersten und zweiten Clan Of Xymox-Phase lässt
sich auf dieser perfekt kompilierten CD für den Laien lediglich erahnen
– nicht zuletzt deshalb, weil Moorings trotz Fan-Voting darauf bedacht
war, den roten Faden der Historie deutlich zu machen:
Clan Of Xymox sind auch im neuen Jahrtausend eine sensible Gothic-Formation,
die Historie und temporäre Vibes zu einer Einheit verschmelzen lassen können.
Gelang ihnen dies auf ihren letzten Alben „Creatures“, „Notes
From The Underground“ oder „Farewell“ nicht durchgehend, so warfen
diese Alben zumindest zwei überzeugende Songs ab ( beste Beispiele: „Out
Of The Rain“, This World“) die im Rahmen dieser Compilation gegen
die wirklichen Klassiker in jeder Beziehung bestehen können.
Die Klassiker der ersten Phase selbst wurden allesamt bearbeitet, entweder neu
eingespielt oder remixed: „A Day“, „Louise“, „Stranger“,
„Backdoor“ und das extrem seltene „Muscoviet Musquito“ (im
Original nur auf dem 4 AD-Sampler „Lonely Is An Eyesore“ veröffentlicht)
sind allesamt stringenter und punktierter als die Originale, ohne auch nur ein
Quäntchen der ursprünglichen Atmosphäre und Intensität vermissen
zu lassen.
Clan Of Xymox haben diese Klassiker in den letzten Jahren immer wieder und wieder
live mit dem neuen Material präsentiert und sich somit ein untrügliches
Gespür für das Gesamtensemble erspielt, das auf dieser Compilation
noch homogener transferiert wird, als auf ihrem 2000er „Live“-Album.
Allen Fans und Novizen sei dieses Album wärmstens ans Herz gelegt.
Nahezu unverzichtbar.
(Okay, „Michelle“ ist nicht dabei. Aber das ist wirklich der einzige
Makel…)
2004 Rezension von Ecki Stieg
Although their remix album was quite pleasant, this 14-track “best of” album beats it without too much effort! 14 essential songs sum up in beauty the Dutch band’s prolific career from their 4AD debuts (“A Day”, “Stranger”, Louise” or yet “Muscoviet Mosquito”, all having by the way been re-recorded for full impact on your senses!) until their most recent hits including the unavoidable “Jasmine and Rose”, “There’s No Tomorrow” or yet “Out Of The Rain”. We’ll also notice new versions of “I Want You Now” and “Into Extremes”. CLAN OF XYMOX excel in dynamic darkwave music and we wish them to continue bringing us as many great moments as they have done so far for at least the next 20 years… (TSF:9) TSF.
Since
forming in Amsterdam in 1984 (prophetic ain’t it?), Clan of Xymox have
dominated the electro and gothic industrial scenes. Helping to define 4AD along
with Dead Can Dance and Cocteau Twins, Clan of Xymox have enjoyed a rich history
and look forward to a wonderful future. For those unfamiliar with them, this
is the perfect introduction—indeed a greatest “best of” hits
album plucked from their past by vocalist/guitarist Ronny Moorings. But for
those diehard fans that have enjoyed the lush orchestrations and their depth
of programming this is not just a bunch of older tracks already available. In
addition are several new remixes and recordings including “Muscoviet Musquito”,
“Stranger”, and “A Day”. Also there are the new tunes called
“I Want You Now” and “Into Extremes” both of which were
just recorded this year. Perfect.
- J-Sin
FAREWELL
Presenting another chapter in great music from Ronny Moorings and company. This
latest work continues on the legacy of a great combination in styles of Gothic
and Synthpop music. The two years since the last release have been well spent
putting together another set of great tracks in the form of this latest angst-ridden
album.
The first and title track speaks volumes to the entire mood, emotion, message
and style of this stellar work. As the words "Farewell affectionate brothers,
you won't see me again" resonate through the moody, yet driving music,
the stage is set for a masterpiece. The first trio of songs (and others) are
driving, hailing back to the earlier years of more synthpop-oriented music,
yet combining the trademark guitars and musical styles we've grown to love.
The angst is there as usual with titles like "Cold Damp Day" and "There's
No Tomorrow", there's no doubt that this is pure Clan of Xymox sound. These
three club-friendly tracks that build up the intro to this album are also probably
my preferred tracks for their overall solid sound and quality. The experience
of this group really shines through in these works.
After this driving intro the mood is broken down into a slow and oppressive
style with the aptly named "Dark Mood". This drifts away through ambient
soundscapes that are captivating and mesmerizing as they hold the listener entranced
for the next moving track "One More Time". The beautiful mid-tempo
sound comes out in this ballad that ebbs through stylish guitars and synth strings.
Building up slightly more "It's Not Enough" picks up the pace and
leaves us with the modern synthpop sound of "Courageous", one of the
more electronic oriented tracks on this album.
The remainder of the album serves as a real tribute to great music and song
writing. "Into Extremes" is even more intense than the previous tracks,
but builds up the climax that drifts off for the excellent ballad "Losing
My Head". This beautiful slow piece is a timeless icon to the lasting dynamic
style from this excellent group. And finally, we're left with "Skindeep",
the final masterpiece on this album. This track is presented as another slow
track that pulses through the senses with the permeating synth loops and slow
rhythms that are accented at times with distortion or mellow vocals that all
gradually drift off into nothing.
Overall an excellent work bringing all of the previous styles that Clan of Xymox
has presented us with and melting them together into the excellent Electro Goth
mix. With bombastic approaches at times to accent the angst-filled vocals or
club-friendly music, the dynamics are perfectly presented to leave the listener
with never a boring moment. As one of my favorite releases this year to date,
I highly recommend it to old and new fans alike.
Rating: 4.5/5
After writing for a solid two years, Clan of Xymox presents one of their best
albums to date. Obviously the overall theme of the album is leaving things behind
most especially in matters of love and relationships. The niche of electro and
gothic is one that most bands can’t easily skirt and sound genuine but
Clan of Xymox accomplishes this effortlessly. “Farewell” is both atmospheric
and moody but also lends an ear to the more club-friendly beats of some masters
of darkwave. Eventually America will catch up to Europe and more of our clubs
will be pumping out this type of music. So be the first on your block to be
able to scream poseur at all the kids who went from Blink 182 and nu-metal to
Clan of Xymox and other Metropolis Records artists.
- J-Sin
*
Clan
Of Xymox veröffentlichen mit "Farewell" ihr neues Album auf Pandaimonium
Records. Die zehn Titel der CD wurden im Frühjahr 2003 aufgenommen und
zeigen die niederländische Band in elektronischer Höchstform.
"Farewell" ist pure Innovation, musikalische Spannung und das Ergebnis
ständig gegenwärtiger Frische auch nach fast 20 Jahren Bandgeschichte.
Die einzelnen Titel des Albums sind voller Energie, fesseln den Hörer binnen
kürzester Zeit und haben sie diesen erst einmal an die Hand genommen, dann
lassen sie ihn auch nicht wieder los. Dieneuen musikalischen Clan Of Xymox Welten
sind sehr nachdrücklich, häufig tanzbar und werden durch zielstrebige
Basslines bestimmt.Stücke wie "Cold Damp Day" oder auch "There´s
No Tomorrow" strotzen nur so vor Energie und zeigen doch stets – obwohl
der Grundgedanke der Band bei der Thematik dieses Albums das Abschiednehmen
war – die Hoffnung der Zukunft und das in diese Richtung strebende positive
Denken der Gegenwart auf.
Mit "Farewell" haben Clan Of Xymox ein wirklich großartiges
Album produziert, das einmal mehr einen neuen Meilenstein in der Bandgeschichte
setzen wird.
© re-flexion.de 2003 / Ingo Möller
*
Clan
of Xymox's "Farewell" is what I'd call a very nice surprise: the band,
which seemed to be very persuading in their last artwork "Notes fromthe
underground", is now back with a more electronic and involving sound style.
Let alone the mere gothic rock style they've used in thelatest two albums, the
Clan of Xymox has learnt the lesson by who has collaborated with them in the
realization of the brilliant "Remixes fromthe underground" and they
have found a very personal and incisive style where Ronny's voice let us enjoy
some old emotions, in a perfectmatch with the melancholy and brilliance of the
tunes. The album is an expert mix of darkwave, electro and gothic sounds: alchemy
alreadyexperienced by others but rarely in a cool way like this! This versatility
is the best feature of the "Farewell" LP, because the album isn'ttrapped
in a single style but it catches all the scene's nuances in tracks like "One
more time" (sort of Mission style) and "Cold damp day"(very electro)
or the excellent "Courageous" (in a very Pulcher Femina mood!). Other
tracks I must highlight: "Farewell", which gave the nameto the album,
has a very catchy sound and you find yourself singing it since the first listening;
"Dark mood", a gloom, solemn, cadenced dirge,"There's no tomorrow"
an amazing hit, which could shake the Italian dance floors, if only the Italian
flabby audience will realize that Clan ofXymox aren't just "A day"
and that their present and their future are really worthwhile! "Skindeep"
ends the CD between suggestions and softnightmares in the worthiest way for
an album, which has really nicely surprised me.
» Buy absolutely this CD!
*********************
The
question that's most often asked about the title of this latest album is if
it refers to the end of The Clan. Mainman Ronny Moorings has been quick to point
out that it's more to do with the end of certain chapters in one's life, a relationship
that has run it's course, for instance. This will undoubtedly be a massive relief
to their huge & loyal fanbase & for those of us who have just discovered
exactly what they're capable of as they weigh in with a superb & varied
release that will appeal to electro fans as well as goth/darkwavers.
Following on from the superb "There's No Tomorrow" single (which is,
needless to say, included here!) this is a varied offering that, while retaining
a dark, sombre mood throughout, thanks in part to his sombre vocal style while
encompassing a great many musical bases in a sumptuous & thrilling fashion.
The electro influences are frequent & unmistakeable, starting with the forthright
synth stabs & rhythms that grace the opening duo of "Farewell"
& "Cold Damp Day", touches that any electro band would be pleased
to call their own although the final touches are added by the gritty guitar
work. Moorings' many years of experience is evident here as the fusion is totally
perfect & by the time "It's Not Enough" comes around you're almost
into EBM territory with accompanying harsher vocals. As always, Moorings adds
his own touches to make the music very much his own & it's this that makes
the album so instantly memorable from start to finish. This also means that
when the band do touch on more traditional goth/darkwave territories, as on
"One More Time" which utilises violin, guitar & accoustic drums
or the brooding "Dark Mood" where a superb sonic tapestry is built
up through massed layers of strings & tympanic flourishes, then the effect
is actually to make the album a great deal more 'rounded. Add to this the operatic
voices that crop up on "Losing My Head", again accompanied by some
wonderful strings or the 80s new-wave bass & guitar combo of "Into
Extremes" then the results can be nothing but a great success, although
the latter track does remind me of The Sisters Of Mercy & on "Courageous",
another fine track, the chorus vocals sound not unlike Phil Oakey!! Still, with
music this good, who's complaining? This is a total triumph from start to finish.
Carl Jenkinson
*
Written
by: Brain, 25/10/2003
The Dutch band Clan Of Xymox is a legend within the Goth/Darkwave genre that
started in the beginning of the 80s on the British label
4AD. They've since then released a score of remarkable albums such as “Medusa”,
“Twist Of Shadows” and their comeback album
“Hidden Faces” which was released after they took a break for a prolonged
period during the 90s. Their biggest success after the
comeback was 99's “Creatures” and in 2001 we got the album “Notes
From The Underground”. Clan Of Xymox have changed labels a
number of times, but it looks like they've found a place to call home with the
German record label Pandaimonium Records. The only
original member is the founding lead singer Ronny Moorings with the characteristic
vocals that have always made Clan Of Xymox
stand out.
Farewell features 10 tracks, including the songs “There Is No Tomorrow”
and “Courageous” from the MCD released last year.The new
album offers us the classic Clan Of Xymox sound loaded with synthlines somewhat
in the same vein of Creatures and much more
interesting than their previous album, Notes From The Underground - which was
a bit boring in my opinion.
The album opens with the title track, "Farewell". It's a great song,
just as "Cold Damp Day" and "There Is No Tomorrow" are;
all
danceable songs with great club potential. And even the slow songs like "One
More Time" and "Losing My Head" are great with full of
brilliant musical instrumentation. We're also treated with one classic Goth
Rock track called "Into Extremes". The best thing about this
album is really the wide variation from which Clan Of Xymox shows that they've
even also mastered the ability to please the
Industrial/EBM audience with songs like "It Is Not Enough" and "Courageous",
the former actually sounding a bit like Assemblage 23
and VNV Nations, the latter also being very Industrial'ish in its own way.
Overall, the songs on Farewell are all powerful, varied and very well written.
It's a great album that succesfully manages to cover a lot
of ground, genre-wise, and leaves you wanting more.
*
Mit
"Farewell" haben Clan of Xymox wieder mal eine Meisterleistung vollbracht.
Die Scheibe ist fast durchgehend sehr synthielastig und energiegeladen, mit
melancholisch-düsteren Melodien, und wirklich eine der besten CD´s,
die ich seit langem gehört habe. Gleich das erste Lied, "Farewell",
verleitet zum Mitschaukeln. Der Song ist sehr rhythmisch und tanzbar und mit
eingängigen Synthiemelodien unterlegt. Beim zweiten Lied, "Cold Damp
Day", hämmern dann auch gleich die Rhythmen weiter. Tanzflächenfüller!
"There´s No Tomorrow" beginnt dagegen ruhig und leise mit Hintergrundstimmen,
um aber dann auch gleich wieder in Synthiebeats überzugehen. Auch dieser
Song ist sehr melodisch und tanzbar. "Dark Mood" ist ein ruhiges,
düsteres und sehr athmosphärisches Lied, trotz der synthieerzeugten
Drums im Hintergrund, die dem Ganzen jedoch das gewisse Etwas verleihen. Das
fünfte Stück, "One More Time", ist dann ganz anders als
die vorherigen Songs. Es tendiert mehr in Richtung Wave, beinhaltet keine Beats
und ist mehr etwas zum träumen. "Into Extremes" ist ein Original,
wie man es von Clan Of Xymox kennt: Eher Gothic-Rock, rhythmisch und sehr melodisch.
Lied Nummer 7, "Courageous", ist dann wieder synthielaster und im
EBM-Stil. Ein weiterer absoluter Tanzflächenfüller ist "It's
Not Enough", das mit einem gewissen Touch
von Industrial daherkommt. Der neunte Song, "Losing My Head", ist
ein langsames Stück, das wieder
mehr in Richtung Wave tendiert. Die Synthies treten in den Hintergrund und untermalen
nur den
Refrain. Das letzte Lied, "Skindeep", ist sehr ruhig und melodisch
und trotz der Synthieuntermalung,
durch die der Song teilweise sehr sphärisch wirkt, fast schon eine Ballade.
Ein sehr gelungener Abschluß. Alles in allem kann man nur sagen: Leute,
hört rein! Das sind wieder "Clan Of Xymox", wie man sie kennt
und liebt!
*
CLAN OF XYMOX delivers the velvet-chocolate vocal tones of Ronny Moorings (vocals, guitar) whose vocals remind me strongly of Johan Edlund (Tiamat and LucyFire), and also of Mojca (Bass & vocals). Musical production and execution on FAREWELL reminds me at times of S.O.M., Project Pitchfork, and The Mission UK. Energy throughout this album shifts from the shallows of reflective grief ("Dark Cloud" and "One More Time") to an apex of EBM momentum in "Courageous". Time and the dark halls of regret are conveyed within the ultra-fantastic cd sleeve artwork provided by Mojca. If anyone has a chance of bringing Dark Gothic Electro into mainstream acceptance, it must be CLAN OF XYMOX! The more electrifying tracks herein carry forth dance-pop sensibilities with dark brooding gothic lyrical concepts, e.g. "the one you love is the one you hurt the most/In My Heart I feel Like a Ghost". Everything we see upon the dance floor, the confidence of the swirly goths, the passion of the dance, the permanence of the beat... FAREWELL delivers all of these elements which must find renewed vigor soon on dance floors worldwide. This could very well be the next best-selling album for CLAN OF XYMOX! Metropolis (releasing this USA version) may have slipped with the track listing order, but they definitely picked a winner with CLAN OF XYMOX! Pandaimonium Records (Europe) is issuing a slightly different version of FAREWELL - click here. The European track listing for FAREWELL appears in the correct song order as compared with the USA version (which confuses tracks 6, 7 and 8). Pandaimonium Records reports that a limited edition Digi-Pak of the FAREWELL album (which also included a CLAN OF XYMOX sticker) has already sold out, though the standard jewel case (european) version remains available for collection.
as reviewed by Jett Black - NocturnalMovements.net
*
After
restoring their original name (from the shortened ‘Xymox’) in the
lateNineties, Clan of Xymox has found their following grow and have delivered
masterful compositions to an adoring fanbase. They took their sweet time
preparing and refining Farewell, the follow up to 2001’s Notes From the
Underground. What surprised me, having only heard bits and pieces of their output
over the
years, is how clubby this album is. The pounding gallop of the title track (and
several others, like “Courageous”) is relentless, and the croon of
Ronny Moorings brings an anthemic quality to the music of Farewell. A departure
from
the club formula, the slow burn of “Losing My Head” might well be
my favorite.
Also of merit is the complex final song, “Skindeep”—it really
ends the album
on a high note. Yet another chapter in the legend of the Clan of Xymox, Farewell
is hopefully not the end of the story, as final as its name might suggest. A
fine record. After writing for a solid two years, Clan of Xymox presents one
of their best albums to date. Obviously the overall theme of the album is leaving
things behind most especially in matters of love and
relationships. The niche of electro and gothic is one that most bands can’t
easily skirt and sound genuine
but Clan of Xymox accomplishes this effortlessly. “Farewell” is both
atmospheric and moody but also
lends an ear to the more club-friendly beats of some masters of darkwave. Eventually
America will catch
up to Europe and more of our clubs will be pumping out this type of music. So
be the first on your block
to be able to scream poseur at all the kids who went from Blink 182 and nu-metal
to Clan of Xymox and
other Metropolis Records artists.
- J-Sin
*
http://www.angelfire.com/ny2/graveconcerns/coxfarewell.html
After the much talked about, “Notes from the Underground”, Clan of
Xymox is back with their next CD release “Farewell”. “Notes from
the Underground” was really good and definitely a hit, but “Farewell”
is so much better! The band is a true leader of dark- electro goth, and they
know how to make it work. The sound of the CD keeps their traditional Clan of
Xymox sound, but I found this CD had many more upbeat club friendly tracks.
What was also good about the mix on the CD was they had five really danceable
tracks, and within the danceable tracks the band had more dark gothic songs
with less dance beats, that were really enjoyable tracks. I really liked the
balance of the CD. It was not an over kill with super danceable tracks. It demonstrated
good gothic rock. If you are into the more danceable tracks, I would suggest,
“Farewell,” Cold Damp Day,” “There’s No Tomorrow,”
“Courageous,” and “Into Extremes,” which seemed to have
a harder edge with some industrial sounds. The song, “One More Time,”
and “It’s Not
Enough,” had a more rock feel, and not that they did not have programming,
but it was a nice break from the really dance tracks. It took on a more rockish
Cure type feel, but in the traditional style of Clan of Xymox. The last two
tracks, also had more of rock feel, but “Skindeep had more of a moody atmospheric
sound, and brought in more upbeat sounds, as “Losing My Head,” did
not. “Farewell,” a definitely my favorite release by the band. It
has club-hits, and had dark themes running though the CD. Where, I felt on some
past albums, the less danceable songs have lacked, not a whole lot, but the
songs that are not highly danceable are just as powerful, and have great melodies.
Ronnie definitely has one of the best male gothic vocals. It is with those vocals,
makes the lyrics really felt by the listener. “Farewell,” is beautifully
balanced, and keeps the darkness within. I am really happen with this release,
and this is a CD that I will want to listen to a lot.
*
Ganz
wie gewohnt und doch ganz neu Es gibt wohl nur wenige Bands, die in den letzten
Jahren sowohl
auf europäischen Bühnen als auch in den Plattenläden so präsent
gewesen sind wie die in den Niederlanden residierende
Formation Clan Of Xymox. Kaum wurde vor zwei Jahren das letzte Album "Notes
From The Underground" veröffentlicht, tourten Frontmann Ronny Moorings
& Co. ausgiebig und brachten das Remix-Doppel-Album "Remixes From The
Underground" an den Start. Zwischendurch findet Ronny dann auch noch die
Zeit, um sein Label Stichting Xymox Control zu unterhalten, das seine
Veröffentlichungen für den europäischen Markt in Lizenz an Pandaimonium
abtritt, die halbjährlich in Amsterdam stattfindenden Gotham-Festivals
zu organisieren und einen Spanisch-Kurs zu besuchen. Da mag man sich schon fragen,
wo
da noch Zeit übrig blieb, um das neue Album "Farewell" einzuspielen.
"Für mich sind zwei Jahre ein idealer Zeitraum, um neue Songs zu
schreiben. In dieser Zeit gab es je zweimal einen Winter und Sommer, Herbst
und Frühling. Diese Perioden üben einen
großen Einfluss auf meinen Gemütszustand aus und sind deshalb wichtig,
um Musik machen zu können", erklärt Ronny gleich
seinen Arbeitsrhythmus mit. "Es ist ein Kreislauf, von dem alle Menschen
betroffen sind, ihre Stimmungen verändern sich. Denk
nur mal daran, was in den letzten zwei Jahren in deinem Leben alles passiert
ist! Sicherlich eine Vielzahl von kleinen und großen
Dingen, die deine Aufmerksamkeit fesselten. Dies sind die Dinge, in die du eintauchen,
in denen du nach versteckten Schätzen
suchen und diese Ereignisse, Gefühle, Gedanken unsterblich machen kannst,
indem du sie in Worte formst und aufnimmst.
Ich schreibe Musik nur dann, wenn ich das Bedürfnis dazu Mitteln nicht
auszudrücken vermag als durch Musik. Der Herbst
und Winter sind für mich die besten Jahreszeiten, weil es die Stimmungen
beherbergt, die ich am meisten schätze. Auch das Wetter erleichtert es
einem, sich in die Obhut der `TortureChamber´ zu begeben, wie ich mein
Studio nenne."
Dirk Hoffmann
*
Alle Achtung, so ein
Album hätten wir "Clan of Xymox nicht zugetraut. Mit"Farewell"
ist Ihnen aller
gegenteiligen Erwartungen ein Hammer Album gelungen. Auf "Farewell"
vereinigen Sie Ihren Gothic Sound mit viel wuchtiger elektronik und weisen den
Hörer in die Schranken des neuen Clan of Xymox Sounds, ohne aber Ihren
musikalischen Ursprung zu
verleugnen.Tracks wie z.B "Cold Damp Day" sprühen nur so vor
Energie und beanspruchen einen festen Platz in der Hitliste des neuen Albums."Farewell"
ist einer der wenigen Alben Neuveröffentlichungen der letzten Zeit bei
dem getrost sagen kann, dass es sehr innovativ und musikalisch gelungen ist.
http://www.darkbeat.net
*
After
listening to a few new songs at their live show in May I found on Farewell affirmed
what I was suggesting: CLAN OF XYMOX abandoned themselves almost completely
from the Gothic/ Wave sound and bring now their music into the legs of their
fans. And that with nice Electro/ EBM tunes. The predecessor Notes From The
Underground already was much harsher than their
acclaimed masterpiece Creatures. And the single There’s No Tomorrow released
in 2002
already blazed the trail they are following now. But that’s no reason for
the romantics to coffin themselves six feet under totally horrified. COX are
still able to build up this unrivaled dark atmosphere and especially Ronny’s
vocals give a deeply
melancholic touch to the songs, despite of their danceable rhythms. But beyond
they use everything possible of keys and effects to create fast beats. Guitars
move pretty much to the background and set just sporadic accents. As always
it’s pretty hard to point out
any special song as COX ranges all the time on a high level. The mentioned There’s
No Tomorrow is already running every dancefloor. While the first half of Farewell
goes into EBM fields (Farewell, Cold Damp Day and There’s No Tomorrow),
songs like Courageous or It's Not Enough play with Future Pop elements but luckily
without getting them out of hands. In between you have a break to
quieter and familiar Gothic/ Wave fields with Dark Mood and One More Time, although
electronic nuances stay all the time present. At the end Farewell dies away
with two quiet tracks Loosing My Head and Skindeep. Overall the quieter songs
remind me every now and then to old Love Like Blood. With Farewell CLAN OF XYMOX
prove once again their ability and proficiency to change and to
develop themselves, to try something new, to fathom boundaries and to abide
themselves though. Maybe they tried to pick up the thread from the early nineties
when they started the first trip into more electronic fields, which failed badly.
Either COX started this new sashey much smarter and more sophisticated or the
musical taste has changed in favor to the band... I don’t know, but it
works out very well.
Farewell
is once again a fantastic album and should not only sell much better but also
extend the band’s fan base.
http://www.nocturnalhall.com
*
http://www.technopunkmusic.com
Tool once sang, “Mom’s gonna fix it all soon/Mom’s comin’
round to put it back the way it oughta be.” Obviously, they were hoping
for the easiest solution to a world full of strife but then maybe things wouldn’t
be so interesting if the oracle-esque knowledge “Mom” was there for
the solutions. I rather enjoy the pain sometimes and I suspect everyone has
their dark side where strife and oppression is remarkably intriguing to them.
For as horrible the injustice of pain may be, it’s also the springboard
for the best things in this life, for truly where would humans be if it were
only happiness that they knew?
Those elusive life answers that haunt and compel us are exactly the strengths
that have kept Clan of Xymox relevant for so long. They
understand the importance of embracing life’s miserable moments, empowering
their flaws through rich song and I suspect it has a bit more to do than the
Clan being a Goth band. Above and beyond many, Xymox are still vital after nearly
20 years because they’re able to translate personal melancholic setbacks
into gorgeous, triumphant, heartbreaking displays of dark dance art.
Sure, their new album is called Farewell but there’s nothing fleeting from
these musicians where talent or their trademark
characteristics are concerned. Nearly every track drips with an effective atmosphere,
some of it vintage Goth and some of it less-easily defined delicious creative.
The opening self-titled victory drips with dark encouragement, driving bitter
dance beats and ultra-moody vocals to a vintage Goth boil. “It's Not Enough
” is the new Goth and industrial foresighted trend where invigorating trance
accentuates the band’s moody disposition, very much helping to prove that
trance is better in this genre’s hands than in a million “rave”
crates put together. “Courageous” is a