An affirming ode to all outsiders in black
Album facts
Release Date: April 26th, 2024
Label: darkTunes Music Group
Tags: Blackbook, Dark Pop, Dark Wave, Electro Pop, Synth Pop
Discogs: (Not available yet)
Partially sounds like: Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, Priest, Modern Talking, Michael Jackson
Final score: 4.8 stars
Matching album cliches: 0 / 7
Blackbook's latest work, "Radio Strange", manifests itself as an extraordinary compilation that captures the best of synth pop and electro pop. It's like listening to a best-of album, so seamless and brilliant are the genre mixes on this album. Nevertheless, the main focus is on catchy synth pop. Each track exceeds expectations with ease and presents itself with catchy melodies that are instantly memorable. Let's dive into the details of the album
Explosive opening with a twist
The first few notes of the opener "Under The Radar" sound as if a new Mallorca summer hit is about to hit the airwaves and is doomed to be played on a continuous loop all summer long. But what followed clearly exceeded my expectations. The album's opener "Radio Strange" draws a captivating line between irony and iconic with its first notes. As soon as the first verse kicks in, a brilliant synth pop sound unfolds that won't let go. In the chorus, the Mallorca melody comes back to life, but it is precisely this subtle twist that gives the song an unexpected depth. A strong start that makes you curious for more.
Electrifying nightlife anthems
The second song "Out With A Bang" is dirty and party-like animal and an absolute must-have for every dark club night. This song fuses raw, techno-like sounds with the characteristic style of synth pop, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that will get any dancefloor shaking. The lyrics speak directly to our little scene, combining catchy passages with profound thoughts to enhance the intense experience. So DJs of the dark scene – put this song on at peak time and watch how it electrifies the crowd. A real club banger that should not be missing from any playlist in 2024!
I’m not in sync
In sync with society
Its hateful embrace
Is smothering me
Lyrics from "Out With A Bang" by "Blackbook"
"Echoes And Shadows" fascinated me from the very first note. This song is an electronic journey that immediately casts a spell over the listener. The pulsating rhythm almost invites you to dance and leaves no one standing still. The seamless transitions between the verses and the catchy chorus ensure that you won't be able to get the song out of your head. For lovers of deep electronic sounds with a powerful beat, this track is an absolute must. A brilliant piece that perfectly captures the essence of synthpop and electropop.
Anthem of individuality and deep beats
As a passionate fan of synth pop and electro pop, I have to say that Blackbook has created a real gem with "You Are Strange" from their album "Radio Strange". This song immediately burnt itself into my consciousness and won't let me go. The catchy chorus "You're strange. You're strange. So strange. I hope you'll never change." seems like a declaration of individuality and resonates with the soul of all those who resist the mainstream.
'The song's message is powerful and inspiring: stay true to yourself and attract the right people. I can't think of a better track that so clearly and powerfully conveys the essence of what true self-acceptance means. A masterpiece that deserves far more than the usual five stars. ‘You Are Strange’ is a black anthem for which I will be eternally grateful to Blackbook.
This is the truth
I never met a stranger I could trust
Until I met you
I never had a lover I could talk to
I’m finally through
With feeling bad about my anger
And finally through
Feeling sorry for myself
Lyrics from "You Are Strange" by "Blackbook"
"Normal" is a true masterpiece for all lovers of dark electronic music. With its perfect fusion of synth pop and dark wave, the song opens up an atmospheric journey that explores profound questions of ‘being normal’. It appeals not only to the gothic scene, but to all those who position themselves outside the mainstream. Furthermore "Normal" proves to be an anthem for the celebration of being different, a clear message that is of great importance in a world where individuality and the desire for normality often collide. The track's musical DNA is defined by a crisp beat that is typical of Blackbook and instantly captivating.
The bridge of the song is particularly impressive, accelerating the tempo with almost military precision and lending the track an energetic urgency. The ‘Tatatatata’ of the bridge is like a call to action that not only encourages dancing, but also reflection. With ‘Normal’, Blackbook make a musical statement that you won't forget in a hurry and that takes the listener both to the dance floor and into deeper reflection.
When I was fifteen
A girl I’d never seen
Took one look at me
And told me I was ugly
[…]
How does it feel to be normal?
How does it feel to fit in?
How does it feel to be normal?
Do you feel anything at all?
Lyrics from "Normal" by "Blackbook"
Retro vibes and haunting melodies
On the album "Radio Strange", I was particularly impressed by the crisp song "Haunted Love". This song, an essential track for any black Halloween party, is a real eye-catcher with its catchy melody and numerous creepy samples and sounds – or rather, a listening pleasure. You can also find it on our "ELECTROWEEN – A dark wave and synth pop Halloween playlist". With a mix that makes even the classic ‘Thriller’ look pale (wink smiley), the song proves that it is more than just a seasonal hit. A captivating synth pop earworm that stays in the memory.
From the very first beat of "The City Sleeps", I felt transported back to the neon-lit streets of the 80s, surrounded by the sounds of classics such as "Knight Rider", "Miami Vice" and "Airwolf". The production is in keeping with the aesthetics of synthwave, but adds its own modern accents with the powerful bass, which immediately invites you to tap along. The "Ta Da" sounds in particular (example from 01:48 minutes), which are reminiscent of "Modern Talking", add a charming touch and make the song stand out from the crowd. A gripping piece that makes retro hearts like mine beat faster.
Romantic interlude and club bangers
I immediately recognise myself in "Beautiful Lies" from "Radio Strange". These tunes also come at exactly the right point on the album. The romantic sounds of this song offer a welcome change on the album, which is otherwise dominated by danceable, energetic tracks. What's surprising is how the song works as a love anthem without falling into cheesy clichés. It's a revelation how well a saxophone bridge works here – normally an element that doesn't appeal to me. "Beautiful Lies" therefore enchants not only with its sound, but also with its refreshing authenticity. Full marks again.
Beautiful lies, beautiful lies
Even the blind always look twice
What if you’re wrong, what if you’re right
What if it’s all a question of time
Beautiful lies
Beautiful eyes
Lyrics from "Beautiful Lies" by "Blackbook"
In the track "Painkiller", I immediately feel catapulted into the depths of a night of dancing. This song is an explosive mix of speed and precision that will cause a danceable detonation in any club. The electronic power behind the beats is irresistible, and the chorus, which you can still sing along to even when you're almost 2 promille, is evidence of real hit quality. "Painkiller" is simply a masterpiece of catchiness – perfectly mixed, ideal in length and so simple that every note fits. A guaranteed earworm that leaves nothing to be desired.
Synth pop excellence
As a passionate fan of electronic, profound music and an avowed follower of the gothic scene, I have a profound affinity with the band's song "Here In The Night". The very first verse weaves a nostalgic picture that can hardly be surpassed in its intimacy and exclusivity. Only those who truly understand will feel the deep connection that this song creates. The synthesiser sounds are exquisitely chosen and are in no way inferior to the legendary "Depeche Mode" or "Pet Shop Boys". This song is a real gem that you will want to enjoy again and again.
We used to listen to the radio
Early morning BBC
Playing mixtapes on your stereo
Duran Duran and Morrissey
Lyrics from "Here In The Night" by "Blackbook"
After 10 songs of the really unbelievably fantastic album "Radio Strange", I thought it would certainly get a little weaker towards the end. But fiddlesticks, because then the next catchy tune "Everybody Is A Nobody" blasts through the speakers and I just think: "How the hell do you bang out one hit after another on an album like this?". I check again very carefully and realise: "No, this isn't a damn best of album, but it sounds like one". I already thought the debut album "Confessions Of The Innocent" was extremely strong back then, but this 2024 album tops everything I've heard recently. The power and charisma of this song is a true testimonial to the band's creative brilliance.
A triumphant finale
In the album's finale, "No Way Out" seamlessly picks up on the epic sound that started it all and takes it to a triumphant climax. This final track almost pays homage to the Swedish band "Priest", with the arpeggiator bassline skilfully capturing the characteristic sound. The multi-layered structure of the song leaves nothing to be desired and creates an atmospheric density that is unrivalled. As the last note fades away, I feel a bittersweet melancholy paired with a deep bliss that has rarely touched me so deeply.
"Radio Strange" is a god-damn fucking best of synth pop album!
Obey! Buy this album! Buy this album! Buy this album! "Radio Strange" is by far the best synth pop album in many years. Blackbook's place as the best synth pop album of 2024 can hardly be challenged. We've rarely had such a high overall rating, so I can count them on one hand. I take my hat off to Blackbook and the album "Radio Strange". Yes, I've become a bit of a fan boy over the last few years, but with this album, the band has a place in my heart for a lifetime. Thanks a million for this fanstastic music and I hope you continue for many years to come.
Track by track rating for: Blackbook – Radio Strange
