Polysics - We Ate the Machine

Released: 2008
Format: standard album (CD or download)

Songwriting: 6
Performance: 8
Recording: 2
First Impression: 8
Staying Power: 6

Before we begin, let's just get one thing out of the way: I despise formulaic, mindless, bubblegum pop music.  Even moreso if it's in a language that I don't understand.

This, though it may be bubblegum pop at heart, and mostly in a foreign language, is far from formulaic or mindless.

Some reviewers called Polysics "the Japanese bastard children of Devo", but I think that's only part of it.  Whereas Devo was content in being intelligent, experimental and weird, Polysics are far more daring, energetic and LOUD!  There is a lot more punk rock, heavy metal and industrial influence than most people care to mention.  Actually, I don't recall any other recent band being so full of piss and vinegar.  The lyrics being a mix of Japanese, English and gibberish (confirmed by a friend who is fluent in all three :P) hardly detracts from the listening experience, as it makes the listener focus more on the music itself.  That music happens to be crazy, abrasive and extremely fun.  It's a pity that the songwriting takes a turn for the worse in a handful of cases, where they try and fail to sing in proper English.  Otherwise it's a solid effort throughout.

In case it matters, the recording quality is among the worst I've ever heard, meaning that it's about average for pop music in 2008.

Suggested sample track: "Rocket"

Recommendation: Worth a spin if you like the heavier side of new wave. Great musical weaponry against pesky co-workers. Do not, repeat, DO NOT listen while driving!