Search - Eyeless in Gaza :: Voice: The Best of Eyeless in Gaza

A First Impression

D. B. Rocca | Parkland, FL United States | 04/29/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Eyeless in Gaza emerged from the post-punk/new wave music scene of the early eighties, and along with other talented but eccectric bands from that era (Durritti Column and Tuxedomoon come to mind) seem destined to remain obscure (despite a lengthy discography). "Voice" is probably the most representative and comprehensive of their many compilations, containing a large bank of songs, 26 in all, that chronologically span their career. From the synth pop exploration of their first single, "Kodak Ghosts Run Amok," through the punk aggression of "Seven Years" and "Out from the Day-to-Day," straight to the lyrical and melodic "Corner of Dusk" and poppy "Welcome Now," "Voice" traces the development and refinement (and at times deviation) of EIG's unique sound. Those who love early eighties obscura will certainly want to add this to your collection, but I think any who love passionate, honest, and uncompromising music will find the voice behind the songs one they can connect to: not just the resonate vocals of Martyn Bates, but the emotional shades of the music leap from the speakers. This is certainly the best place to start for those new to Eyeless in Gaza. My only complaint (which may also be its greatest strength) is that, with the exception of "Through Eastfields," the experimental soundscapes and avant-garde pieces have been omitted. This is a very important side of their work: I suggest "Drumming the Beating Heart/Pale Hands I Loved So Well" in addition to this CD, but I wonder if a similar compilation focusing on that material isn't a bad idea."

Full circle

loteq | Regensburg | 08/15/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"EIG are a largely unknown and underrated band that has put together a remarkable oeuvre over the last two decades. It's not easy to compile a disc with material from a band which altered its sound and approach as restlessly as EIG, but "Voice.." (subtitled "Recollection 1980-1986") works arguably well, featuring tracks from albums, EPs, and singles. EIG's music does not necessarily work best in its original context; their albums always were patchwork, ranging from folky, stripped-down ballads to pre-techno electronic numbers to incidental music to ambient soundscapes and vocal-only songs. "Voice.." leaves out EIG's more experimental work and may be the best first purchase for the newly interested. Most of the key tracks are here, including their first single "Kodak Ghosts.." and a sizeable selection of songs from 1982's "Drumming the beating heart" and 1986's happier, pleasant "Back from the rains". A good collection, though it should be buttressed with at least one regular album from EIG's early-'80s era. "Photographs as memories", "Caught in flux", and "Rust red September" come to mind."