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"Violent Heartstrings" sounds like The Cure, with Ian McCulloch on vocals. There's an epic, heartfelt mood to the music. A chaotic saxophone solo confirms the decade of choice as the 80s. Thankfully The Opposite Sex sound like the band they are influenced by, rather than individual songs. As the 80s are my favourite era this CD makes excellent listening. A heavy bass line plays a crucial role in "Turning Colours", while the vocals hint at The Cult. "Knives" has the tension of Killing Joke. A scream from singer Helton offers cathartic release. "Somewhere Girl" sees the band flirt with their jerky/punk side.
"Breaking The Sorrow" should be played in stadiums. It has an early U2 sense of scale. The guitars seem to arc across the sky, while the piano fills the horizon with clouds. "Walk On Water" sees synths mixed with guitars. The mood is mellower, though still far from somnambulant. The Opposite Sex show that they don't need a fast tempo to keep the listener's interest. "Does Anyone Truly Love Anybody Else?" keeps up the quality of song writing and musicianship. "Everything" has a strong rhythm section, particularly bass and hi-hat. "Shattering Walls" has a guitar that judders; this song demands your attention. The tribal drumming is fierce and deadly. "Dusk" has the atmosphere of Joy Division. The band indulge in a frenzy of church bell ringing, but no one has remembered to tune the bells, leading to a demonic cacophony of sound. The Opposite Sex don't bring many new sounds to the post-punk mix, but they have used what ingredients they have very well. This is a band made for people who know what they like and who want extra helpings. The Opposite Sex may sound as if they were made in the 80s, but they have yet to reach their Sell By date. |
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