IAMX KINGDOM OF WELCOME ADDICTION ALBUM SSC, PLAYGROUND RELEASE: MAY 15, 2009 (EUROPE), MAY 19, 2009 (NORTH AMERICA) REVIEW: MAY 11, 2009

After I discovered IAMX, I went on to give the first two albums ten out of ten, a score we very seldom give out here at Release. So, the pressure is on for Chris Corner's third IAMX album, "Kingdom of Welcome Addicton". Can it possibly live up to the dizzying heights of "Kiss and Swallow" or "The Alternative"? The short answer is no, it can't. But read on, it's still a brilliant album.

First off, one big reason for the lower score this time is that we know Chris' tricks by now. We recognize his melodies, harmonies, rhythms, production etc. The biggest reason for me though is that I'm not entirely comfortable with the slightly new direction he's taken. The electronics aren't the main thing anymore although they're still very much there; instead we get a more regular indie feeling with bigger focus on guitars and piano. This means the sound is not as unique as before, even though it's still definitely IAMX. Lastly, there's actually a track I find boring, which is a first on a Chris Corner related album for me. The track in question is "My Secret Friend" which is a duet with Imogen Heap, whom I usually like quite a lot. The track is not bad as such, it's just a little meandering and uneventful.

The rest of "Kingdom of Welcome Addiction" is a fantastic listen, with big emotions, powerful beats, chaos, order, wonderful melodies and of course Chris' passionate voice. There are a lot of favourites to choose from, but right now I think "An I for an I" is on top, as it's filled with such energy, chaos and a very haunting chorus. But the ballad "I'm Terrified" is very close, almost causing goosebumps from all the raw emotion.

It's safe to say that if you loved the first two IAMX albums, you're going to love this one as well. Possibly more, possibly slightly less. In any way, it's a must for your collection.

JOHAN CARLSSON