Product
Apollon, 2021
9/10
Originally released way back in 1982, this sophomore album from the Norwegian stars De Press is back in print again, and its New Wave, punk and Eastern European influences sure have held up well as Product sounds right at home alongside today’s version of post-punk.
“The Fatal Day” starts the album with dreamy guitar work and swift drumming as deep vocals help give the opener a post-punk feel that certainly sounds very ‘80s with its buzzing, ominous climate, and “In A Position To Know” follows with hypnotic drumming that aligns with angular guitar work and a tense landscape.
Landing in the middle, the playful “Signals” builds into a dense rocker that flirts with prog-rock amid its very technical song craft, while “Product” showcases bouncy bass work and a gripping atmosphere that’s even got some goth nods. “Other Man’s Sin” then pairs chunky bass with crisp guitar work as thumping drums steer a very swift, punk friendly environment.
Close to the end, the hazy “Total Corruption” emits a darker tone, not unlike what was so common in the UK in the early ‘80s, and “Swienty Pokoj” exits the listen with both alt-rock and New Wave ideas present and appreciated in their very timeless and energetic formula.
An active and esteemed band since 1980 (there was a several year break up in there, though), this early album is an important piece of De Press’s excellent catalog of music, and clearly illustrates just why they’ve been one of Norway’s most beloved rock bands.
Travels well with: Raíse- Crepa!; Cosse- Nothing Belongs To Anything