Punch Drunk Monkey - Number 1 Killer (song review) |self-released, Room 101, 2011| 4/5
Punch Drunk Monkey is a musical duo based in Brisbane, Australia. The
band was established in 2001 by founding artist Candellan and
Erszabetta. The song "Number 1 Killer" is the opening track to their new
album Room 101 that was released in 2011.
An atmospheric intro based on an electronica stylized prelude may at
first suggest it to be an ambient song, but make no mistake, this track
soon evolves with a viral rhythm which continues throughout the end of
this track. The mood of "Number 1 Killer" can be considered dark in some
spots, however the entire track is rather easy listening and danceable
due to its pulsating, syncopated vibes. A careful listener may catch the
distorted guitar riffs that interlace the beats and make this
composition sound a bit feisty as well. Stretched, modulated and
repetitive synth parts diversify the solid, yet uncomplicated structures
quite interestingly.
When it comes to the vocal tracks, the male segments are slightly
digitized and repetitive. However, the song structures seem to fill in
extremely well when combined with the radio-esque female reports. Also,
this is a good technique to utilize so that the vocal tracks do not
stand out in an overemphasized manner beyond the instrumental
arrangements, but appear to be mixed somewhere in-between the
predominant track levels, making this song less organic in contrast to
i.e. traditional rock songs.
Candellan and Erszabetta admit that their artistic inspirations come
from musical genres popularized in the 80's and 90's. Their influences
include artists such as Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Depeche Mode,
Fields of the Nephilim and Inkubus Sukkubus. In this track, a listener
may find connections and similarities primarily to the music of Depeche
Mode or Orgy, although Punch Drunk Monkey creates their own sound and
individual identity.
"Number 1 Killer" becomes immediately memorable from the first listening
due to its marching rhythm as well as contrasting, modulated synth
effects. This track has possible hit potential for listeners and the
dance floor if marketed through proper channels and targeted
demographics.
(Katarzyna 'NINa' Górnisiewicz, Fabryka Magazine, August 13th, 2012)
On Fabryka Music Magazine: http://goo.gl/swYql
ReverbNation | Facebook
Reviewed by Google+ Music Reviews