No Name Desire- Wastelands

Artist: No Name Desire
CD Title: Wastelands
Label: Monopol Records
Reviewer: Matthew Johnson
Date: 10-24-05

Another Czech EBM band, No Name Desire differentiate themselves from other bands on the Monopol Records roster by focusing more on a contemporary terror EBM style. Instead of the Front 242-influenced club sound of Mastermind or Depressive Disorder, No Name Desire seem more taken with eerie samples and aggressive attitude than with rhythm and bass. This isn’t to say that these aren’t dance songs, of course; “Scorched Sky” is speedy and pounding, and “Tissue of Lies” is incredibly infectious for all its harshness. “Evernight” is also a standout pick for DJs, blending distorted vocals and a paradoxically perky synth arrangement. It’s the moodier notes that really set this album apart, though. “Relic” is full of darkwave influences, all bombastic strings and horror film pianos, and “Cry and Whispers” makes the most of old-school analog sounds, combining industrial drum programs, synthesized choral effects and a smorgasbord of samples into a sublimely creepy electro track. With the heavy beats of harsh EBM and a good ear for darkly dynamic arrangements, No Name Desire are a cut above most of the new Suicide Commando clones, and fans of YelworC and Hocico should particularly enjoy this album. Between this and the rest of the quality stuff coming out on Monopol Records these days, the Czech Republic might just be the new hotspot for dark electronics, and No Name Desire will be at the front of the pack.

Visit No Name Desire online at www.nnd.cz.