Client - City

Client takes an early 80’s synth-pop jaunt on their second release, City. Released domestically on Mute, City is the second full-length offering from the band that launched Toast Hawaii, the label started by Depeche Mode's Andy Fletcher. With Client’s infectious grooves and hand-booty clapping, one can see the similarities of early Depeche Mode or OMD. The two ladies of Client, Kate Holmes and Sarah Blackwood, belt out entrancing lyrics over a variety of keyboard based wizardry in City, much like the straight up monotone delivery of Saffon (of Republica fame). “Radio” is an enchanting mix of crunch synth pop and disturbing lyrics. It’s almost a suicide-inducing trance for those who can’t accept there is “no music on the radio.” Who said the Electroclash genre was supposed to make sense anyway? The Libertines even make a brief appearance on this release. Carl Barat trades sexually fused backing lyrics on “Pornography,” a track that actually makes monogamy sound cool, more-so because the moaning and deep bellow of each voice triggers mental images that these cats must be crazy-sex freaks. The other Libertine, Pete Doherty, is relegated to backing on “Down to the Underground,” a fast paced synth drum track reminiscent of early Human League. “Don’t Call Me Baby” is an infectious dance track that can make one think of the herky-jerky dance of spandex clad, big-haired Brits from those fuzzy early 80’s videos. Actually, this whole album makes me think of those videos because Client has successfully recycled a style that cannot be matched by the other tired imitation acts of today. [www.client-online.net]