VISION SYSTEM MONOCHROME ALBUM PETROL RELEASE: FEBRUARY, 2004 REVIEW: FEBRUARY 23, 2004

It has been ten years since the release of the "Olympus Mons" EP. Ten years without a proper Vision System album. When it does finally arrive it does, to some extent, present a new sound. "Monochrome" sees the arrival of a more indie based sound, hovering over Vision System's trademark analogue synthpop tweeks. Those who liked "Olympus Mons" and the "Promise" EP may initially be a bit hesitant towards the sparkling guitar loops embracing most of the twelve tracks on "Monochrome".
But Vision System were always about the songs. There are quite a few gems here, some of which really benefit from the use of a richer sound. But then again I'm a big fan of Gustaf Hansson's dry, stylistic vocals and his focus on brittle melodies. His companion Per Arenö masters the art of bass and guitar playing, making a classic synthpop sound mesh well with a dirty rock topping.
Let's just hope the band hasn't been completely forgotten yet, as they, seemingly, still have a lot to give. "Monochrome" is the proof.

NIKLAS FORSBERG