TWZ- The Sixth Extinction

Artist: TWZ
CD Title: The Sixth Extinction
Label: Deathpropaganda Records
Reviewer: Matthew Johnson
Date: 10-15-06

Solid dark electro in the vein of Hocico and Yelworc, this album from TWZ has plenty of club appeal, although it doesn't break much new ground. This album's strength is in its textures; the intro and outro tracks, "Revelation 13000, Parts 1 and 2," really highlight TWZ's talent for creepy soundscapes, combining the usual ominous synth pads and groaning metallic sound effects with dripping water, buzzing insects, and eerie processed groans. The more straightforward dance selections are more of a mixed bag. The growled vocals on "Deathwing" sit right on the line dividing creepy from comical, although the song wins extra points for sampling Donald Sutherland. "My Friend Disorder" also employs gravelly vocals, but they're not quite as overwrought, and the combination of industrialized clanks with tinnier synthesized drumbeats gives the song a memorable rhythm section. Perhaps the most interesting of TWZ's dance offerings, though, is "Infestation." By focusing on more atmospheric effects rather than pure distortion, this track creates a blur of reverberation and digital delay that's almost dizzying, creating an effect that's far more unsettling than the usual horror film references. Decent throughout and at times coming close to greatness, this is a solid effort sure to appeal to fans of evil European electro.

For more information about this release, please visit Deathpropaganda Records at www.deathpropaganda.com.