NEUROACTIVE TRANSIENTS ALBUM A DIFFERENT DRUM RELEASE: NOVEMBER 6, 2001 REVIEW: JANUARY 21, 2002

When I got this Neuroactive album, I was quite eager and hopeful, since this band has done a number of great synth songs in the past. At a first listen, I immediately noticed the excellent production and sound - it surely sounds professional. Also the vocals are superb - Mr Karjalainen sure has a nice voice, making me think of Covenant, and he also knows how to use it.
The album starts with the decent song "Play", making me think of Assemblage 23. It's a strong track indeed and should appeal to the masses. Although, I know this wasn't what I wanted to hear from Neuroactive! Holy mother! Is this another talented band falling down the future pop drain?
The better "Quiet Afternoon" follows and it certainly has feeling. It continues like this - they mix the sell-out stuff, like the horrible "Wonders of the World", with the good stuff, like "Was It Worth It" and the nice "Strangers to a Life", leaving me confused and disappointed. Another thing which disturbs me is it sounds pretty much the same throughout the entire album, resulting in a slightly sterile and impotent album.
It's not total darkness, though. Sometimes, they're sounding like The Mobile Homes could have sounded if those guys would have chosen another path years ago.
I can establish that this is a must have for fans of modern electropop and future pop. Personally, I suggest you forget about this album and buy Neuroactive's "Neurology 1994-2000" or "Fiber-Optic Rhythm" instead. I can't help wondering, what is to come on A Different Drum next? Snap's "Rhythm Is a Dancer" remixed by La Bouche?

JOHAN ASTEMARK