ANTHONY ROTHER POPKILLER ALBUM DATAPUNK RELEASE: JUNE, 2004 REVIEW: JULY 1, 2004

Anthony Rother’s last two albums “Hacker” and “Simulationszeitalter” are both already electro classics, and feature some mighty fine electronic atmospheres and beats. Sounding perhaps like a Kraftwerk in mourning, this German entered my world when he played at the Arvika Festival two years ago. Unfortunately I missed it, but it was the buzz of the people who were actually there that caught my interest. I got my hands on the two mentioned albums and was hooked!
That’s why I’m so disappointed with “Popkiller”. It’s got nothing of the sophistication and mystery of his earlier work; instead it’s pretty bland electroclash with vocals. All songs consist of a boring 4 by 4 beat that never changes, a bassline that never changes, and dull singing on top. Sounds fun eh? The only redeeming song is “10 000 Dancer” where the soaring strings take it all to another level, but that’s not enough. I hope Herr Rother does better next time. In the meanwhile, listen to his earlier music.

JOHAN CARLSSON