Tropic of Cancer
Restless Idylls

LA RECENSIONE

I find myself in these last and cold days of 2013 engaging with the music of a band that is certainly not extraordinary, at least for those who know or frequent the genre, but undoubtedly extremely pleasant to listen to.

I'm talking about the Austro-American band Tropic of Cancer.

The band, named after one of Henry Miller's most important works, has been active for several years in the overseas darkwave circuit and has made a name for itself thanks to some well-crafted EPs. Now: not having their discography before my eyes, I can't tell you whether or not this is their official debut. I only know that we are dealing with a band with clear ideas and capable of offering something truly appetizing for all lovers of dark and nocturnal sounds.

The references can be found in early Cocteau Twins, Dead Can Dance, the notes of Siouxsie and certain echoes of the "Ethereal" and spectral sound of Lycia (I know, I put them everywhere). To all this, add syncopated and monotonous rhythms, typical of the current known as "minimal synth".

A product that absolutely cannot leave anyone indifferent, though aware that they are not faced with absolute innovators. But do we perhaps want to find them in the new millennium?

Tracks like "Rites of the Wild", “The Seasons Won't Change (And Neither Will You)” and “Wake The Night”, demonstrate that Darkwave still has something to say. Something very interesting.

Do not let this record slip by because, among the many underground releases, it is a platter that stands out for its genuineness, sincerity, and desire to move the listener.

All characteristics that, desperately or not, we often search for in vain in the records of recent years.