Review: The KVB – Of Desire

The KVB
Of Desire

Invada Records / Metropolis
Street: 03.11
The KVB = NOIR + Psychic TV + Alien Sex Fiend

It is not often that those in love can create a project and have it become successful. Luckily for us, that is not the case with Berlin-and-London based sweethearts Kat Day and Nicholas Wood. When these two musicians conquered the difficulties of living in two different geological locations to make their music, the sound was exhilarating. Of Desire is certainly proof that today’s technology can allow inspiring, creative and stimulated minds to meld and overcome any distance. Day and Wood decided to splice their creative talents together in 2010 and have since provided and enhanced us with dark audio bliss, supporting bands like Psychic TV and headlining on their own.

Shoegaze, the newest sub-genre label of the month, has often been used to describe this band, but I hear more of a traditional gothic or post-punk style. If by chance you need a fancy sub-genre to fit them into, you could use darkwave and synth. These are just a few additional intricate little categories I would nestle their sound into. There is a slight variance in the style of these tracks, but I felt they either outshone some of the other ones or left a bad taste in my mouth. For example, the horrible, irritating haunting, hollowing and crying synth backing track “Never Enough” leaves even the blackest souls full of despair. It’s my least favorite on the album, and I was not a fan of its particular sounds, but it was done well and correctly. To its credit the heartfelt lyrical content sung in monotone completely drives in the gothic style. The hypnotizing beats of “Lower Depths’’ and powerful guitar riffs make this one my favorite of the album. “Lower Depths” seduces—I feel it’s best heard loud for the most enhanced listening experience. I immediately wanted to dance, grind and stomp out the music. For those who fancy something a little faster, “Silent Wave” will capture your attention with its driving, throbbing and quickened beats per minute. The hollowing reverb on the vocals also gives it a darker and mysterious feel. It has a simplistic four-count beat which allows for easy mixing into any of your favorite songs. The track “Night Games” has your body wanting to sway to the beat with its Sisters of Mercy feel.

Although this is music I have never heard before, it is very reminiscent of many artists from the early ’90s. It honestly is not the most monumental or earth-shattering release, nor will it have you shouting, “Praise Jesus,” but it does have its moments that sparkle. It is packed with emotions—music that makes you feel. I found a number of tracks to fill my dark inner voids. It is an impressive album and is sure to stimulate. The composure and recording are clear, and it is a well-produced and polished to provide an outstanding aural experience. I assure you, it will even provide listening pleasure to those with the most eclectic taste. –Mistress Nancy