Madonnatron - Madonnatron
Like the most intriguing of bands, there is a bit of mystery around Madonnatron. Photos and videos show a four-piece but their Facebook page lists three members. They’re based in London but some of the vocals suggest origins that are rather further afield. Articles that I have found and the press release don’t make anything any clearer. Despite – or maybe because – of this and having formed less than three years ago, Madonnatron are making waves, and this LP makes it easy to see why. The band describes their sound as witchprog. Well, it is certainly progressive but prog? Headless Children has a vaguely Egyptian vibe, with a hint of (whisper it) classic 80s goth about it. Sangue Neuf continues the Middle Eastern feel but throws in some Jane’s Addiction. Tron takes the bass riff from JAMC’s Just Out of Reach and turns it into a post-punk anthem. Things take a sinister turn with the frankly terrifying Be My Bitch. Elsewhere, the band veer into 60s Nuggets garage territory to great effect. What raises the band is the weaving, multipart vocals. At times, it sounds like the various voices are singing different songs but somehow it works and works brilliantly. I bet they will be a riot live!
9/10
