While the Australian synth-pop scene goes from strength to strength, one name has remained synonymous: Cut Copy. While many groups have maintained a strong following back in Australia, Cut Copy have spread their wings globally. Constant travelling, including performances with Daft Punk, Bloc Party, and Franz Ferdinand, has led to a large overseas following which is steadily growing
. In fact, Cut Copy played in Colombia recently, a place that hasn't been graced by an Australian group since a little-known band called INXS.
Founded by Dan Whitford in 2001, the band now includes a cast of four, with Whitford, Tim Hoey, and Mitchell Scott being joined by bassist Ben Browning in mid-2010. They have released two previous records, Bright like Neon Love (EP, 2004), and then In Ghost Colours (LP, 2007). It was In Ghost Colours that announced them to the world, with the album appearing on the American and Finish (strangely) charts as well as debuting at number one in Australia.
Their new album, Zonoscope, due to be released worldwide next week, was devised in open brain-storming sessions in a warehouse in the suburbs of Melbourne. This allowed them to explore their creativity to greater depths, and because of this, fans will be treated to a fantastic explosion of beautiful musical delights. A list of the rhythm instruments alone - bongos, rototoms, congas, 10 kinds of shaker, 15 different cowbells, and even water filled wine bottles "“ gives you an idea of the depth the group delved into in search for the perfect sound.
"Take Me Over," the first single on the album, is the perfect melding of synth, percussion and vocals, combining for a superb pop song. "Where I'm Going" slows it down a little with a rocking swing beat, while my personal favorite track, "Pharaohs and Pyramids," goes a little more experimental, sampling percussion noises popping out at you from behind Whitford's rolling voice. The final track, "Sun God," is real value for your money, with Cut Copy delivering a 15:07 pop epic to close their musical narrative.
Initially hesitant to get over-exuberant about their new release due to my doubts that the brilliance of In Ghost Colours could be exceeded, I was not disappointed in the slightest. This album is one step closer to pop perfection. Cut Copy have again delivered, and I have no doubt their global renown will be cultivated even more with the release of Zonoscope.
The band is letting you stream the album for free, if you share with a Tweet. Click here for more information.
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