Lost Sounds/The Vanishing--split 7"
Cochon 2003
Split releases often turn out as mixed bags, one half carrying the load more than the other. However, when you have two groups capable of ruling the world all on their own getting paired up, there are few things that can top the listen. That ideal situation is what you get on this Lost Sounds split with the Vanishing. If you're unfamiliar with either or both of these bands, this little 7"er is sure to blow your mind.
The Lost Sounds kick off this platter in grand fashion with "Glued To The Screen." This one rocks along with some interesting changes thrown in, until the big payoff on the sparer by comparison chorus--Alicja's voice slipping into angelic falsetto mode, droning on cooler than it ever has. In fact, those moments are one of the ultimate high points in the band's recorded history, to date--period. Following up this monster cut is "There's Nothing." Musically, as with the previous song, the Lost Sounds come off a tad more quirky than usual. Also, the voice winds up as the driving force here, as well--Jay alternating between cold, clean plasticity and his inimitable scream. The screamed half ultimately wins out, and with this guy at the mic, that's never a bad thing. By packaging these two songs together, the Lost Sounds present a nice little microcosm of what they're all about and capable of.
For the staunch Lost Sounds devotee, the excellence of that band's offerings here should come as no surprise--but what about the Vanishing? Well, if you haven't had the good fortune of consuming the Vanishing before this split (guilty as charged), their cuts will come as a goosebump inducing revelation. Starting off the Vanishing portion of the program is "Get In The Car." The beats that begin this song gallop like the hooves of all four apocalypse riders drawing nearer, giving way to music as dark and synth heavy as the best of Gary Numan's classic output. Cap all this off with Jesse's spot on Siouxsie-esque vox and you've got a masterpiece of gothic new wave on your hands. This gem is followed by the instro workout of "Lost In Pictures (Pt.2)." Retaining all the properties which made that first song great, though without the haunting vocals, this track manages to get a bit more atmospheric without ever delving into the purely ambient. Combine all these elements with flawless tunesmithing and the Vanishing manage to cook up a truly thrilling listen, throughout.
The best case scenario for any split release is that the bands will compliment eachother well and leave listeners wanting to hear more from both outfits. That is exactly the outcome from this pairing of the Lost Sounds and the Vanishing. For today's take on the synth heavy sounds of new wave, you will not get it any better than these two juggernauts give it to you here. 100% awe inspiring, from both halves. A must have.
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