Reviewed by Liz Liew

This band remains a mystery. No info was supplied and certainly no lyrics, making it almost impossible to distinguish between each track. However, once I settled down to listen to it, I was pleasantly surprised. Musically New Society are industrial-based with elements of techno, dance, ambient and metal. They are a lot like Mortal but seem to incorporate more atmospheric mood changes. The overall programming is creative with competent use of vocal distortion, stereophonic interference and an almost graphic representation of the lyrics in "God Help Me". I particularly like the Cure-ish song "Staring At The Sea" with its mellow congo beat fading into sampled seagulls. However, certain aspects do not work as well, eg, the prolonged bass drum 'hammer' (in "No Mercy For The Wicked"), the abrupt ending and, in some places, the extended use of fuzz and repetition. Nevertheless with 17 tracks there's plenty of music and it's at a bargain price.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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