When dark synth pop meets pure desire
When I listen to ‘Treachery’ by the American artist TATV GRAL, I am immediately drawn into the dark, emotionally charged world of Allen Addington. The song begins with a thrilling and intense bassline, which is then interrupted by jangling, offbeat synth sounds. The musical framework strikes me as slightly technoid, but is unmistakably and clearly rooted in dark wave or darker synth pop.
In keeping with the lyrical depth, which deals with abysses and betrayal: "A Lust That Can't Compare". The vocals are initially quiet, whispering the lyrics into the microphone. In the chorus, however, the vocals rise sharply and become significantly more powerful, perfectly conveying the track’s raw energy.
For me, clear sonic references are Depeche Mode and Kraftwerk, with a theatricality reminiscent of Deine Lakaien. What I particularly like about this track: it offers plenty of dynamics, which pause the song beautifully, especially in the extended bridge, only to unleash its essence once more with full force upon the eardrums. A truly strong release!
The music video is really well made and, with its cut-and-paste effects, reminds me directly of Depeche Mode’s “People Are People”. At this point, however, I must issue a small warning: I would definitely categorise the video as NSFW, as there are explicit BDSM scenes to be seen, particularly in the final section.
Listen to "TATV GRAL – Treachery" on Spotify
Listen to "TATV GRAL – Treachery" on Bandcamp
Lyrics of "TATV GRAL – Treachery"
Right now
When you look at me…
Right here
where your near me…
The mind that feeds despair
A lust that can’t compare
A fate per chance to dare
Your heart for me
Restrained your body ensnare
Animal your soul to bear
Transgressed your spirit aware
Of this treachery
Right now
When you touch me…
Right here
Where you kiss me…
The mind that feeds despair
A lust that can’t compare
A fate per chance to dare
Your heart for me
Restrained your body ensnare
Animal your soul to bear
Transgressed your spirit aware
Of this treachery
Now…
The mind that feeds despair
A lust that can’t compare
A fate per chance to dare
Your heart for me
Restrained your body ensnare
Animal your soul to bear
Transgressed your spirit aware
Of this treachery
