THERMOSTATIC HUMANIZER ALBUM WONDERLAND RELEASE: MAY 30, 2008 REVIEW: MAY 27, 2008

Still knee deep in computer game romanticism, Gothenburg combo Thermostatic has constructed an increasingly varied effort with their sophomore album "Humanizer". Still playful and naïve, but edged by a newfound coolness.

I loved their debut and I love "Humanizer". I just can't find enough new ingredients in their catchy pop formula to award them an equally high grade this time. Still, it is another of those albums where the highs profoundly outweigh the lows. More low key pop than its predecessor, "Humanizer" provides potential listeners with more than just Sidstation frenzy. Ballad "Northern Ambulance" starts things off beautifully, layering synths with Louise Lundberg's whispering voice. Following it is an album high in tempo, energy and insanely catchy melody hooks.

It is clear that Thermostatic have found their niche and while their concept may be too much for some people, they carry it out to perfection. "Humanizer" is nothing short of spectacular in all its complicated simplicity and it won't leave my stereo until something better comes along (I do have more than one, mind you).

NIKLAS FORSBERG