Ways of Escape

This is only André Obin's second album, but the development of his sound also entails several singles and EPs on labels like Moodgadget, Trouw, Klopfgeist, and Mina. He has produced tracks that can easily be classified as techno; on Ways of Escape, he sticks to synth pop, and the majority of the eight songs here are among the tautest and most finely detailed he has made thus far. The affected English accent on which he once leaned is seemingly in the past, though that yearning/vulnerable quality remains. He's still clearly inspired by the likes of early Ultravox, New Order, and Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, while the synthesized bassline in the opening "Loaded Soul" bears strong resemblance to the one in Ministry's "Every Day Is Halloween." Top standout "Eye for an Eye," slow and hefty and yet atmospheric, sounds like the work of someone armed with encyclopedic knowledge of his inspirations and the ability to be distinctive. "Loomer," the finale -- not a My Bloody Valentine cover -- is one of his finest and most unique instrumentals, a theme-like track full of menace with a touch of sweetness. ~ Andy Kellman