Future Phantoms: A Dark Metal Review
Phantoms Of The Future emerged as a prominent German rock band from Dortmund in 1986 under the leadership of Sir Hannes Smith. The initial lineup included members like Dirk “Dr. Krid” Schwarzer, Dorfel, and Harald Uri, showcasing a unique blend of punk, rock, and electronic elements. Throughout the 90s, their albums like “Cruel Times” and “Call Of The Wild” established their musical presence in the industry. However, the band disbanded in 2001, only to be resurrected 25 years later by Sir Hannes Smith with a fresh lineup to create their latest offering, “Forever Dark”.
On listening to the album, it becomes apparent that “Forever Dark” presents a mix of moody, new wave sounds with heavy moments and synthetic touches. While tracks like “Spirit Of Love” offer a punchy melody, some songs lean towards an overly theatrical vocal style, making it harder to connect with the music. The album progresses with a series of new wave tracks featuring experimental sampling and dark gothic rock elements. Despite the diversity and stylistic shifts, certain tracks like the title song and “Forbidden Fruits” stand out for their hooky basslines and heavy riffing. However, the prevalence of synth programming passages might polarize listeners.
“Stocking Girl” and “I Don’t Believe” highlight the band’s unique vocals and dark, moody ballad style, with varying degrees of success. “Feel The Rain” closes the album with a wave of synths and programming, offering a sense of conclusion to the musical journey. The band’s comeback after a lengthy hiatus is commendable, showcasing their resilience and commitment to their craft. While “Forever Dark” may not appeal to all listeners due to its acquired taste, fans of the band are likely to appreciate the diverse musical approach and unique vocal delivery.
On a technical note, the album reviews well in terms of musicianship, production quality, and memorability. Tracks like “Werewolf”, “Devil Inside”, and “Bloody Tears” contribute to the overall atmospheric experience, creating a haunting and immersive sonic landscape. The band’s lineup, featuring talents like Olaf Oebels, Anselm Triptrapp, Pete “Pepe” Stein, and Viva, further enhances the musical depth and complexity of the album.
In conclusion, Phantoms Of The Future’s “Forever Dark” marks a significant milestone in the band’s journey, offering a blend of new wave, gothic rock, and electronic elements. While the album may not cater to all musical preferences, it undoubtedly showcases the band’s artistic evolution and commitment to pushing boundaries in the rock genre. Fans of the band are likely to appreciate the diverse musical compositions and the band’s distinctive sound, solidifying their position in the rock music scene.