Walhalla Belgium レコード& CD

Review: Walhalla Records reissues Underground Wave Volume 4 from its exciting series that helps collect and release minimal synth gems from the 1980. Belgian acts dominate this expertly curated edition, including M Bryo, Schicksal, Ratbau and Bene Gesserit, each contributing tracks that pulse with analogue nostalgia and DIY grit. Schicksal opens the record with 'Power Hate Destruction', an exclusive track that sets a dark and brooding tone. M Bryo's entry is particularly arresting with Mark Burghgraeve's knack for eerie atmospheres. The Arch delivers 'Ice In Your Eyes',, a swirling track said to be their live concert closer in 1988, oozing with gothic tension. Side-B has 'Genetic Factor', a haunting 1982 cut by Richard Zeilstra that evokes early Klinik. Elektronische Maschine adds a refreshing 90s synth pop twist, while 'No Honey From These' stuns with a raw, Suicide-like energy. Paschen's Law channels YMO and Logic with intricate programming, before Bene Gesserit closes things with the mesmerising 'Les Aliens, a track that fuses eerie piano with an Attrition-style evolution. This compilation is a passionate preservation of underground history, led by Walhalla's curator Lieven De Ridder's deep archival instincts and unmatched dedication.

Review: Walhalla's dive into obscure 80s synth pop and new wave has been a resounding success since the first volume 15 years ago. With this third volume, Walhalla drops the "Belgian" label from the title but keeps its roots firmly in the heartland of EBM, industrial and minimal synth. The album opens with two icy pieces from Nostalgie Eternelle. Active since the late 80s, they've finally landed on vinyl, delivering analog minimalism with 'Coup De Grace'. S.M. Nurse follows with a bizarre but compelling sound collage, layered with brittle vocals and wiry textures. Nine Circles return with the desolate and minimalist 'Here Come I, Here Is Me', while Vayne Kaye & Ignit's 'The Heat' brings a sharp post-punk sound. From the tortured electro churn of Experimental Incest's 'Desire' to the political bleakness of The Maniacs' 'Vietnam' and O.B. Minimax's 'Charming War', this volume leans heavier into dystopia. The Misz, always good for a chuckle, come with the coldly hilarious 'Spinach in Kiev'. Closing things out, Unovidual's 'Metal' ends the record in a short, sorrowful wash of synth. As always, each volume has tons of raw, lo-fi and often challenging and rare music to enjoy.