Merchandise – A Corpse Wired For Sound – Album Review

Release date: Friday, September 23rd 2016

Merchandise have just released the follow up to 2014’s After the End. This new collection of songs represents a change in direction for the band. They have moved from a rock emphasis to something popier. They have also lost two band members in this transition, with a drummer being the most obvious casualty. They are now a three piece, with Carson Cox on vocals duties (and electronics), Dave Vassalotti on guitar (and again electronics) and Pat Brady on bass. This change to a drum machine along with a strong synth sound make the comparison to 80s bands easy, with shades of Echo & the Bunnymen, among others.

The band started life in Tampa Bay’s DIY hardcore punk scene but they have travelled a long distance. The muffled vocals of Cox along with a wafting guitar line introduce Flower of Sex, that is until the drums and screaming guitar enter the arena. Crystal Cage opens with the phrase ‘Everyone wants what they don’t got, I only want what’s mine’. The simple piano and guitar line carry on in repetitive fashion throughout. End of the Week is the first single off the album and it starts with swirling guitar and whispered vocals. A pounding drum is then added as the momentum slowly builds. It has a sullen, lackadaisical feel that draws the listener in. Shadow of the Truth has a late night feel, with a strong guitar line. I Will Not Sleep Here moves in a different direction, with gentle guitar and an optimistic mood as the end of the album approaches. My Dream is Yours finishes the album with a synth soundtrack worthy of John Carpenter with more muffled layered vocals.

The album has a sound that is very popular at the moment, but it will be difficult for the band to gain the attention of the masses. There are many other bands following a similar sound, and it is a well travelled road. It’s an album that needs repeated listens to really enjoy. For fans of this genre, this is an album worth indulging.

Track List:

1. Flower Of Sex 04:54
2. Crystal Cage 04:00
3. Right Back To The Start 04:16
4. End Of The Week 04:12
5. Lonesome Sound 04:16
6. Shadow Of The Truth 05:13
7. Silence 05:08
8. I Will Not Sleep Here 06:47
9. My Dream Is Yours 04:23