CHINESE THEATRE VOICES & MACHINES ALBUM SECTION 44 RELEASE: NOVEMBER, 2006 REVIEW: DECEMBER 15, 2006

He is starting to make quite the impression within the synthpop community, Krister Pettersson. Hiding behind his Chinese Theatre pseudonym, this melody oriented Swede has worked with increased glee the past year remixing established as well as upcoming electro stars. The thorough task of "Synthphony Remixed Vol. 5" comes to mind as the most dominant yet before time came to build his very own castle.

"Voices & Machines" has been an extensive project, as Pettersson has recruited numerous vocalists to accompany his retro tinted soundscapes. It has been pointed out by many, and I will not differ in opinion, that "History Forecast" with Alexander Braun of Distain on vocals is a standout track. It features an indefinably catchy italo disco-esque quality predominant in many songs on "Voices & Machines". A product of its time, the album does not end up a nostalgic trifle, but holds enough contemporary elements to make it an electronic pop force to be reckoned with even in 2006.

"Stationary" (with Marcus Bustad of Z Prochek on the mic) is another favourite, lulling by beautifully before the next gem blasts from the speakers. "Following Me" features Gary Fisher of Purveyor, and offers one of the best melodies on the album. Also worth mentioning is "Breaking Free", a furious club staple candidate with Chinese Theatre's own Martina Ramstedt providing welcomed female grace.

"Voices & Machines" is a very enjoyable journey, offering lots of different vocal styles paired with the electronic warmth and bouncy melody engine of Chinese Theatre. The slightly ambivalent mixture of mid-80:s synthpop and contemporary song structure make for a synthpop disc worth both your time and money.

NIKLAS FORSBERG