OMD - English Electric
Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark's English Electric masterfully bridges their storied past and a visionary future. This second album since their 2006 reformation features nods to Kraftwerk, Philip Glass's Einstein on the Beach, and their own classic hits. Tracks like 'Metroland' pay homage to Kraftwerk’s 'Europe Endless' while introducing post-industrial beats, reflecting the band's evolution. The album’s thematic undertone, inspired by the defunct UK firm English Electric, underscores a nostalgic futurism. 'Kissing the Machine,' a rework with Kraftwerk’s Karl Bartos, and 'Helen of Troy,' reminiscent of 'Joan of Arc,' highlight their timeless charm. Songs like 'Our System' blend aggressive EBM influences without merely replicating past sounds. The album’s opening, 'Please Remain Seated,' poignantly announces, 'The future that you anticipated has been cancelled,' which has the band poking fun at critics putting their timeless sound in a 80s box. OMD’s English Electric stands strong, with tracks like 'Atomic Ranch' and 'The Future Will Be Silent' showing their comfort in their unique retro-futuristic sound. Reissued on vinyl with stunning artwork, this album not only recalls their legacy but also cements their groove in modern times.
OMD - History Of Modern
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark - or OMD - made a magnificent comeback with History of Modern back in 2010, an album released at the peak of a synthpop revival, and this reissue is timely in that it arrives on the crest of another wave of synth-heavy sounds in current music. Known for their lush, romantic 80s electronic music, the Liverpool outfit were at the forefront of the genre, gaining fame with hits in both the UK and the US, and this album is definitely reminiscent of other 80s releases like Junk Culture. Tracks such as 'New Babies; New Toys' and 'The Future, the Past, and Forever After' innovate and are dominated by big beats and catchy choruses. The album shines at OMD's strengths. The second part of the title track, in particular, recaptures their signature slow-dance grandeur. Overall, fans of the band at any point in their career should find something to enjoy here.
