Quite possibly at the very top in 2004 electronic albums.
Takis Tz. | InYourHead | 12/10/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Heavy compliment in my headline, for sure, but working the electronica section for the record store i work for I've heard everything to have come out this year in the genre. This here topped them all albeit being close to quality to Death In Vegas' "Satan's Circus".
So what's the big deal here? Well, for those who were inspired by and loved Anne Clark in the 80s, this is somewhat like an Anne Clark album with an astronomically better production and through and through good, no fillers.
It's obviously very dark then, incredibly bombastic and the drumlines as well as the basslines are stunning. "Reves mecaniques" can easily be played in a club (guaranteed to rock the dancefloor) and can just as smoothly provide the soundtrack for a cardrive at high speed.
What's more is the level of creativity in it hits high levels in all the songs. None of the often-used one song formula, but rather tracks that will keep you surprised even after several listens.
Most of the tracks are sonic electro-assaults of the finest kind, very atmospheric for good measure, and since i mentioned Anne Clark, it's obvious that "Hacker" (Miss Kittin's former co-producer) has listened to a lot of 80s underground electronic music in his time. A certain EBM element is to be recognised here as well but only in the background. In this respect, "Reves mecaniques" could remorse-free be filed in the alternative section of any record store.
One of the top-5 electronic releases for 2004, and in my book, the very top one. Extra credits for the simple but greatly inspired artwork on the cover."
Treat your ears to The Hacker
Scott Villarosa | Melbourne, Australia | 09/18/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"You will not be disappointed in purchasing this album. It is pure musical brilliance from the The Hacker, who is without question a musical genius. This album is along the same lines as Miss Kittin's "I Com" although Reves Mechaniques is more edgy, abrupt and perhaps somewhat eerier than the stuff from Miss Kittin et al. The beats on this album, for example, pace along with no chance for you to focus much on the last track played. For example, I find that each ensuing song totally compliments that previous and when listening all you want to do is anticipate the next song. And boy are there some tracks on this album that you'll want to put on heavy rotation. The opening tune, Flesh & Bone, is a perfect introduction. You'll surely find more just like it too.
So, I like this album. Also, one of the good things is that it doesn't take that long to get into its genre and overall feel. I'm sure any fan of Miss Kittin, the likes of Ladytron and perhaps Peaches will like what Rêves Mécaniques brings to the table. It has definitely earned a place on my CD shelf and is a real favourite. Great for listening to at any time of the day too.
I say don't look past buying this album. It's an awesome listen and an album you'll cherish for a long time to come."