Gus Gus
Attention

THE REVIEW

It was 1998 when the Icelandic band Gus Gus, with the legendary “Believe” from Polydistortion (1997), made me appreciate their music. I bought the album and I remember that for a few months it stayed there, at the top of the stack in front of the player, ready for frequent listens. Four years later, or rather last Saturday, I happened to come across “Attention,” their new CD released by Underwater Records. I read that it was by them, Gus Gus, and I got curious and bought it. Once home and with the stereo on, I realized that, compared to Polydistortion, the drum that was so driving and ambient before is almost always absent, now replaced by horrible techno/dance beats. The intro of the first track, “Unnecessary,” is nice, and the second track, “David,” is flattering. I continue listening, but I miss even more the psychedelic and mystical voice of the singer, now ousted by the voice of the girl who used to dance like crazy in the old videos. Overall disappointing and not very bold for an electronic album. Nothing new and 10 rather dull and repetitive tracks. Incomparable with the creativity they showcased in Polydistortion or in general the Icelandic scene of those times. A rave album to listen to at most at an illegal ambient party in a basement and then leave it right there, among the boxes full of good memories. djd