“Tongues” opens with chugging guitars reminiscent of Rammstein, and Depeche Mode-like synth. Unfortunately, the song never takes off quite like Rammstein are able to. Deathstars have a lot in common with the German industrial superstars. “Blitzkreig” sounds a little too similar, I have to say. Vocalist Whiplasher Bernadotte (don’t ask) sounds too close to Till Lindeman for there not to be some influence creeping in.But, the Deathstars have not managed to develop the skill of (or perhaps penchant for) large, catchy choruses that get the blood pumping. True, the chorus for “Blitzkrieg” is kind of catchy, yet bears more in common with the gloomy atmospherics of Type O Negative (minus the irony and sarcastic wit) than anything currently bothering the rock charts. “Motherzone” continues the deep vocals and synthesised music, but despite being rather interesting, is a touch forgettable.
Lead single, “Cyanide”, is a much more impressive beast. It’s also another Rammstein-alike romp. Whiplasher’s vocals take on a depth and gruffness akin to (Moonspell). It’s pretty good, almost stomping, but the lack of energy might be detrimental in a live setting.
Taking the more twisted, darker imagery and subject matter of the European industrial scene, Termination Bliss is a good album, but falls short of the mark. This will never be considered ‘great’, but considering the improvement we’ve seen from their debut, Synthetic Generation (2004), it’s possible that their next album will be something very good indeed. Personally, I think they should embrace some more commercial elements to make them properly memorable, as without obvious hooks, these songs are not so easily remembered.
Deep, dark, fun, bizarre, not pretty. Good, but ultimately unfulfilling.
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