Sunday, February 28, 2010

London's Krautrock Resurgance


Subway is the London-based duo consisting of Alan James and Michael Kirkman. They are tight. It's always nice to hear a group that isn't bashful of their influences-- and these guys certainly don't give a fuck. Upon first listen of the opener "Persuasion" on their most recent record, Subway II (2008), you should immediately be taken by the percussive, droning synths. But don't be fooled by the Kraftwerk influence-- this is a straight up club banger. The uptempo 707s soon kick in and the track begins to unravel. Still, these guys may want to get you on the dance floor, but their true intentions lie within concepts of meditative thought and the avant-garde. Subway demonstrates their intrinsic mastery of patience and hypnotic repetition on Subway II; both of which are crucial elements of great dance music. Expect a similar sensation while listening to groups like Daft Punk, Devo, or something out of 70s Dusseldorf and Cologne.

Subway - Persuasion (thanks to 8106 for the mp3)