I, Synthesist- Avalanche

All the synth-pop cds I received by indie bands and labels previously for review are real good, but the latest one I got in my mailbox two weeks ago, I'm going have to say it's definitely da bomb! New Yorker I, Synthesist (aka Chris Ianuzzi) has made a fine 100% pure classy incredible brilliant electro-pop album that will be a classic in the years to come. For the very first time a true original and innovating artist made me say something like this! IS blends 80's feel with modern synth-pop not trying to sound like the pioneers from the past and the underground new school electronic bands. "Avalanche" is the first debut release that contains nothing but HIT AFTER HIT AFTER HIT AFTER HIT. I cannot believe I'm saying this! When comes listening to synth-pop music, I can be very very picky. And you all know the reason why, especially me being a black guy in the Electro/Gothic/Darkwave scene. Many days IS been spinning in my boombox in the bedroom and my portable cd player. I even wake up in the morning listening to it while getting ready for work and taking it with me while driving. There are alot of good interesting poppish dance tunes on disc that will make the club, radio and internet djs so confused to decide what to play to the listerners/crowd. If you want to know my personal favorites, I'm going have to say ALL 11 tracks. I really can't believe I just said that! Believe me, I like it all. There are some comparison sounds IS do have. I mostly hear GARY NUMAN and THOMAS DOLBY, but furthermore, without imitating their sound, he takes it to another direction,which is totally a good thing.

"Avalanche" is a phenomenon authentic record with good quirky lyrics that have some humor in it and Chris's remarkable vocals absolutely stands out completely with the music. He even sounds like Thomas Dolby on some of the tracks. Everytime I listen to the cd, I visualize it playing at a fashion show, especially the track "Mad Connection." I can see beautiful models walking down the Catwalk showing off the latest designing clothes by top designer names in the Fashion Industry, while IS music playing in the background and as the photographers snapping pictures away with a quick light flashed from their cameras.

I usually give 1-5 stars when reviewing a cd, since I, SYNTHESIST had me going and took me by surprise and even sent me a unique promo package in the mail, the one man electro act gets 10 stars, two thumbs up and a eye wink!

Tracklistings:

1. Red Clouds

2. Lost Parade

3. Images Of You

4. Captain, My Captain

5. Aerial Dreams

6. Paralyzed

7. Hiding

8. She Glides

9. Another World

10. Mad Connection

11. Avalanche

www.isynthesist.net

Review by Donovan Tate