Wednesday 22 February 2012


Lots has been happening in the world of XAD since I last reviewed their music. They are now handled by Amnezia Bookings and have been racking up gigs and recording new material. Their latest single is 'Mary turns to gold'. It will be released digitally on the 29th of February. The hard work seems to have paid off.

What immediately strikes you is that XAD have recorded with a far denser sound this time around. The band at the time was enhanced by Devin on keys and Wes on drums. The dense sound is lifted by a poppy synth lead, which gives it a retro feel. So we have Smashing Pumpkins
guitars, 90's electro pop and a retro moogy synth which gives it an almost 'twee' element. The vocals are double tracked throughout with a female singer called Francesca Laneri.

My first impression of the song was that it has a great sound. The second impression was that it was over before it started. It's a 'blink and you'll miss it' 3 minute pop song. The synth hook is great, and the duel vocals work very well - especially to introduce people slowly to the band.

The song leaves you wanting more - there isn't even time for a guitar solo. I can see it being a an opening track(or early track at least) which builds pace for the album. This is a much more upbeat XAD than their Distant Future EP and would provide a great respite to Ted's more 'sensitive' moments. Great work!!

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