Dynamic Masters- Prestige

A dance-oriented synthpop outfit on Germany's IntraPop label, Dynamic Masters should appeal to anyone with a penchant for '80s dance beats in the vein of Real Life or the Pet Shop Boys, but their real talent lies in their layered vocal harmonies. Singer and programmer Jens Plöger's tenor is a bit on the nasal side by itself, but when combined with second vocalist Heike Bailey, who sounds a bit like a European disco version of Stevie Nicks, the result is harmonic bliss. "In Your Arms Again" is one of the band's best, with infectious retro beats, minor-key synthesizers, and lots of gorgeous vocal melodies, and "Photographs" adds a hint of modernity with a thumping trance-inspired bass line. Like all too many bands in the electronic pop genre, Dynamic Masters do give in to clichéd lyrics on occasion, but overall their enthusiasm is such that the sillier moments come across as disposable but fun rather than painful or insipid. "The Feeling," in particular, is an irresistible piece of bubblegum, and break-up ballad "Gone Forever" uses dramatic synths and a lovely vocal duet to generate real emotion instead of hackneyed melodrama. With decent songwriting, memorable melodic hooks, and enough discotheque attitude to move the most reluctant club patron onto the dance floor, Dynamic Masters are a promising act in the '80s mold. Check this one out if you're in the mood for a bit of nostalgia but can't stomach the thought of another Flock Of Seagulls remix.

Visit Dynamic Masters online at www.dynamic-masters.de.