Crystal Castles
Crystal Castles
Last Gang Records
By Mike Archibald
Much has been said about Crystal Castles, the Canadian electronic super duo, over the last few months. Much of the discussion consists of the band falling into controversy over old work. This seemingly has overshadowed their latest product, their new self-titled LP released on Last Gang Records in early March. Crystal Castles is made up of the multi-talented musicianship of Ethan Kath and Alice Glass.
Swirls of 8-bit inspired electronic are sewn through their latest release which is consistently inconsistent. Cuts off Crystal Castles range from deeply vibe-strained electronic to often thrash-inspired vocals from Glass. The song “Alice Practice” is the best example of their diverse use of sound; Glass’s distorted cries are woven in with a fresh beat up to the brim with warping beeps and blips.
Crystal Castles are also well known for their remixes, the third track on their LP is a remix of HEALTH’s “Crimewave.” The vocals are chopped and arranged as though they are performed through a drum pad or keyboard. The underlying beat is a simple bass and snare pairing that is accompanied by a keyboard solo.
The album has a fairly consistent tempo that provides room to be played in numerous atmospheres whether it be in the car or while DJ’ing. Crystal Castles has been a staple on my radio show for awhile; the songs are infectiously catchy but without a sugar pop aftertaste. They will stay stuck in your head after listening, but the tracks will not tire you out.
“Black Panther,” a track that is placed towards the end of the album, is particularly enjoyable. Glass’s vocals are submerged by a quicker paced beat that is more of a chronicle of what the synth is doing. The geek in me quivers to its resemblance to old video game soundtracks, as it’s much like a tune you would hear while searching and plundering in a medieval land.
Crystal Castles will be one of the most played albums around my apartment for the next year whether my roommate likes it or not. With a diverse mix of 8-bit inspired synth as well as well as their very own modern styles, Crystal Castles have crafted an album unlike many others.
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