Pleasure And Pain Exit Gate
DreamCell 11 Entertainment/Aurual Music Group DC1104-02 3rd May 2004
By Russell Garwood
Italys Pleasure And Pain offer a contemporary take on a classic genre, mixing numerous styles into a darkwave template. These include a healthy dose of EBM, some house and trance touches, classic goth ala 80s 4AD roster and traditional goth rock from the likes of Bauhaus. The singing of Paolo Cataldi (also keys and programming) brings forth the goth comparisons, and fits well with the forlorn, dark atmosphere of the electronics. These, the responsibility of Gianluca Bellincampi, are varied, at times being reminiscent of contemporary dance, while at others ringing of the eighties electronica. The guitars are subtle, yet effective and melodic, adding a more organic, harsher edge to some songs. The bass, as you would expect for such music is prominent, relatively straightforward, but both catchy and driving. The programme drums are entirely fitting.
Exit Gate is a solid release from a young band well written songs are accompanied by a dark atmosphere and memorable music. My only negative comment would be that while the mix of styles makes for an original sound, the band still somewhat lack their own identity, being more a collection of diverse influences than a cohesive whole. While the album may not appeal to all fans of metal, those with eclectic tastes who enjoy melancholy music are likely to enjoy Exit Gate. I look forward to hearing further work from Pleasure And Pain.
7/10
Official Pleasure And Pain website
Official DreamCell 11 Entertainment website
DreamCell 11 Entertainment/Aurual Music Group DC1104-02 3rd May 2004
By Russell Garwood
Italys Pleasure And Pain offer a contemporary take on a classic genre, mixing numerous styles into a darkwave template. These include a healthy dose of EBM, some house and trance touches, classic goth ala 80s 4AD roster and traditional goth rock from the likes of Bauhaus. The singing of Paolo Cataldi (also keys and programming) brings forth the goth comparisons, and fits well with the forlorn, dark atmosphere of the electronics. These, the responsibility of Gianluca Bellincampi, are varied, at times being reminiscent of contemporary dance, while at others ringing of the eighties electronica. The guitars are subtle, yet effective and melodic, adding a more organic, harsher edge to some songs. The bass, as you would expect for such music is prominent, relatively straightforward, but both catchy and driving. The programme drums are entirely fitting.
Exit Gate is a solid release from a young band well written songs are accompanied by a dark atmosphere and memorable music. My only negative comment would be that while the mix of styles makes for an original sound, the band still somewhat lack their own identity, being more a collection of diverse influences than a cohesive whole. While the album may not appeal to all fans of metal, those with eclectic tastes who enjoy melancholy music are likely to enjoy Exit Gate. I look forward to hearing further work from Pleasure And Pain.
7/10
Official Pleasure And Pain website
Official DreamCell 11 Entertainment website
