Anzi

Finnish-born and London-based industrial punk rock rebel Anzi (phew, a mouthful already and I haven’t even started with the actual review yet) just released his high-octane second album Black Dog Bias – a metaphor for prejudice, fear and misunderstandings the world over.

The former vocalist of Finn-rockers Stereo Junkies delivers the goods by fusing various genres such as industrial punk rock, hardcore synth-pop and electro-clash – all linked together by an infectious and manic groove.
Opener ‘Revival’ thunders right in, melodically spiked and veined with razor-blade hooks. The stirring ‘I Let You Dive’ is pure adrenalin, dominated by an aggressive beat (or should I say bark…) and distorted riffs that are juxtaposed by a chorus that sounds tame in comparison. It’s also dead catchy and makes you want to dive right in. No wonder that is was recently released as a single!

Dark and menacing are the words to describe ‘Cortex Command’ with its powerful chorus and the open-to-many-interpretations line “You cut me off so fast” which hits you hard though possibly not as hard as ‘Fear Is No Prophecy’ with its multi-layered refrain delivered in venomous unison – inviting the listener to join the brigade.

“No confession, my body in pain” sets the mood for the guitar-heavy ‘God On The Screen’, a brilliant track that echoes bands like The Mission, while ‘False Saints’ advises to “face your rivals” with or without the aid of your private bible. Once again, the words – emphasized by scorching riffs – serve as a metaphor for the complex state of affairs we are forced to deal with, may it be affairs of the heart, of politics or indeed of religion.

‘Sunburn Jesus’ is much more rock-oriented than it is industrial drum-beat – fierce and blazing riffs complement Anzi’s aggressive vocal work, all executed in speedy fashion. The texture remains rich and the beat fast on ‘Big Enemy’, which oozes an almost overpowering and pompous vibe.

Gritty grunge is the dominating factor on ‘Nuclear Sire’ although when Anzi sings “Drop the bomb, SHE’S a nuclear sire” I have to admit the meaning of the words are somewhat lost one me.
One of my album favourites is the distinctly mellower ‘Delusions’ which brings Anzi’s lyrical skills exquisitely to the forefront. A folky new-age feel and classical string arrangements add a magical touch to this inspired composition.
We also get a bonus track with the radio-edit version of ‘I Let You Dive’.

‘Black Dog Bias’ showcases not only the raw talent of our frontman but further talent includes Sisters of Mercy guitarist Ben Christo and African Djembe player Ike Chime, while Anzi’s ex-wife (Finnish author and former Playboy Playmate) Katariina Souri contributed to the lyrics.

(Please read my interview with Anzi in our Music-News INTERVIEWS section)