AKANOID CIVIL DEMON ALBUM ECHOZONE RELEASE: MAY 22, 2009 REVIEW: SEPTEMBER 2, 2009

At first glance, I mistook the band name for Arkanoid and my nostalgic mind immediately transported me back to the late eighties when i played the brilliant computer game of that very name until i finally rounded it. But no, "Civil Demon" is the latest offering from Akanoid.

This album sounds very American to my ears, not only because the band is from the US. It contains the typical blend of subdued electronics paired with straight up rock. With a couple of exceptions, it seems the Americans rarely dare to go for an all electronic sound (even though their previous releases are more synthpop). Akanoid are very skilled, creating a stable whole without fragile bricks. Great vocals and strong songs, but with a rather tired sound frame.

"Civil Demon" is an album I could see do well in the mainstream, but it's not for the electro heads, who instead should embrace Blaqk Audio.

NIKLAS FORSBERG