Dance Mother
Iamsound Records
By Stephanie Roman
Dance Mother
is the debut full-length CD from Brooklyn-based electronic duo
Telepathe. The first track, "So Fine," is driving piece of electro pop
that cleverly draws the listener in with gorgeous tone and a perfect
mix. Put this in your ear next time you're gliding through France on
the Eurostar for an unforgettable ride.
Next
up, we find some stripped-down tendencies toward hip-hop paired with
probing lyrics. Some tracks sound like they were the result
of audiophiles let loose with new toys for the first time, which may
have been what happened when the girls began recording the album in a
studio full of vintage synthesizers belonging to Dave Sitek (TV on the
Radio).
"In
Your Line" is a simple song about a lost love, with the familiar
backing vocals belonging to !!!'s Shannon Funchess. At times the repetitive rhythms could stand an occasional twist or turn. Telepathe
takes us into the stratosphere once again during "Can't Stand It" with
dreamy vocals similar to Ladytron or the Smashing Pumpkins.
"Trilogy"
contains a beautiful violin-toned break that hearkens back to early
Depeche Mode, and "Drugged" continues with melodies that could have
been lifted from a traditional Japanese opera (little wonder the band
is so loved in the land of the rising sun). Overall, a very impressive
debut release.
After touring Europe this May, Telepathe plays 529 in Atlanta on June 23 (tickets available here) and Rock and Roll Hotel in Washington, DC on June 25 (tickets available here).
