Tracklist:
A1- Eight
A2- March
A3- Hollow Square
B1- Muddy and Sloppy
B2- Next Time
B3- Patch32

Total Play Time: Just under 29 minutes

Ready for vinyl ?!? Well I certainly have been, and finally did something about it by getting a turntable. If you don't already own one, you are going to need one to hear this masterpiece of music, because at this time (as far as I know) Emotional Joystick is only on vinyl. Personally, I'd say owning a turntable is a must for at *least* hearing this record.

So what does this project's name make you imagine the music sounds like? Emotionally charged? Relating to video games? That seemed to easy, so I thought otherwise. Funny thing is, the music *did* connect with both of these thoughts! Sounds silly possibly, and it might be if done simply like music for a video game. The sound goes beyond that though, and is quite professional sounding for what appears to be a first release.

Starting with "Eight" the music starts slow, with beautifully delicate synth lines. The imagery of an old NES video game soundtrack immediately came to mind here. This changes though as a slow, laid back drum pattern turns into a "controlled chaos." Now I don't mean the music goes from melodic to breakcore, but the drum beat takes on a decent pace full of constantly changing patterns; which will then return to the peaceful tones beneath. With "March" the music becomes louder, and touches more on abrasive sounds. Drum beats sound like metal grinding together, and there is a quiet rumble over a gentle synth line drifting along beneath the chaos. Like "Eight" though, this doesn't break out into some high speed sonic attack, or into a mid tempo rhythmic noise piece. This style continues on through all tracks present, in a unique presentation for each.

What is so special here is how you can take aspects of 'noise' music, and bind them with melodic tunes which can be dramatic in nature. Sometimes inspiring thoughts of sadness or longing, the songs almost sound like they could fit into a soundtrack. Certainly not dance music, this is music which is more personal then group orientated. Also, just because I use the word "noise" in some of my description, in no way is this a noise act. Closer to drum and bass with it's beats ("Muddy and Sloppy", which is my favorite track), this music plays with elements of "heavy" music; while also sounding slightly playful.

Quite a pleasant surprise from Zod Records, and certainly an act to watch. In the near future the follow up "EP2" and a 7" picture disc are planned for Emotional Joystick. Check out the website, and get a copy of this vinyl while it's still available! I'd guess things are only going to get bigger and better for this act.

Information:
Label: Zod Records
Serial: zod.03
Title: Emotional Joystick EP
Band: Emotional Joystick
Site: Zod Records

Reviewed by Bry'n
6.13.02