Revolver Modele- Discotheque Crypt

Following up two EPs, Revolver Modèle's full-length debut, Discothèque Crypt, finds the Minneapolis-based 4-piece cutting a swathe through decidedly retro post-punk territory with a slightly more modern flare. Ehsan Alam's deep, guttural outpourings and possessed shrieks fall somewhere around the intersection of Ian Curtis, Nick Cave, and early Peter Murphy. The musical backing can, similarly, be somewhat accurately portrayed as Joy Division thrown into a blender with U2's Boy and a dash of Bauhaus. However, while the comparisons are easy to draw, the band's dynamic interplay and almost bipolar energy give the album enough of an edge to certainly stand on its own two feet.

The outstanding, spastic, punchy, bass-driven club rock of the opening "Les Diaboliques" is easily the strongest offering here, its promotional video, sporting a strong 90s alt rock aesthetic, also present. Other notable cuts here include the slower alt rocker "ah ah ah", the spectacular vocal yelps and chaotic guitar delivery of "Delerium Tremens", the sparkling simplicity and cavernous echo of "The Ache", and the poppier delivery and emotionally intense finale of the album-closing "In the Aisles". "Icons", whose chorus hides a shimmering pop progression beneath a gruff exterior, also deserves honorable mention.

Bursting with energy and oozing charisma, Discothèque Crypt is a solid outing with both style and substance. While those sick of the recent stream of Joy Division-influenced post-punk throwback bands may want to steer clear, Revolver Modèle's first full-length is one of the best things to come out of Manchester…err…I mean Minneapolis in quite some time. Definitely recommended.