Dangerous and Moving (pixelbomb.com)Time of publication: 04.09.2005 |
I recently received an official advance copy of Tatu's second album, "Dangerous and Moving", and I must say that it lives up to its name. Focusing on conquering the turmoil in (perhaps their own) relationships, this album reveals a much more mature and darker side of Lena Katina and Julia Volkova, the girl duo from Russia, yet it still has their signature catchy choruses that rocketed their first single, "All The Things She Said", to number one. Their new album, with its moving lyrics, reflections on the past, haunting melodies, strong beats, and powerful imagery, is sure to please old and new fans alike.
Track #1: Dangerous and Moving (Intro) [0:49]
Track #2: All About Us [3:00] is their initial single release and should prove to be an instant hit with Tatu fans. A very purposeful beat in the beginning casts a dark mood over the track which will be carried through the next several songs on the album. The accompanying video, with its violent underscore (especially in the uncensored version), is a departure from their earlier videos; and adds intense images to the feelings of struggle and conflict.
Track #3: Cosmos (Outer Space) [4:11] has a very eerie feel to it, however, despite its catchy background rhythm, is my least favorite song on the album. This is the only track in English where Lena and Julia choose not to fully mask their Russian accent, but that isn't what bothers me. What bothers me is that the verses start off low and ominous, which I do like, but then they proceed to slowly climb (and continue to climb) until they hit an unusual, and seemingly strained, pitch as it leads into the chorus.
Track #4: Loves Me Not [2:55] attempts to capture the frustrations of a girl choosing between her love and her friend. Softer sounds are intermixed with a rock inspired chorus to build the internal conflict. Unfortunately the track is basically one giant refrain, and because of that it is the only other song on the album that I dislike.
Track #5: Friend or Foe [3:08] steers the album back in the right direction and quickly erodes the memory of the last two songs while reprising the original theme of conflict. The combination of a great rhythmic beat and a playful scale makes it a very addicting song.
Track #6: Gomenasai [3:42] is the first slow ballad on the album and, interestingly enough, is of Japanese influence. The word "gomennasai" (notice 2 Ns) in Japanese means "excuse me." I can only imagine Lena and Julia were influenced by their many tours of Japan and it is being reflected in this song. This track introduces the first feelings of remorse, regret and longing for forgiveness, a turning point in the overall mood of the album.
Track #7: Craving (I Only Want What I Can't Have) [3:50] is an upbeat ballad with a soft wind instrument and a lighter beat. It is a great transitional track which seems to navigate the album out of the previous tumultuous tone.
Track #8: Sacrifice [3:09] has a very haunting pop/rock sound. Reverberating notes from a subdued electric guitar are built upon with a lively drum and cymbal beat, followed by a second guitar, and finally completed with an electronic rhythm.
Track #9: We Shout [3:01] moves almost completely into electronic pop. Starting out as a slower song, it gradually gains momentum with story-like lyrics echoing a confined or lonely feeling. While the chorus usually overpowers the other elements of their songs, in this case a nice balance is achieved as the chorus returns to a supporting role.
Track #10: Perfect Enemy [4:12] has a faster dance paced electronic drum rhythm and a very rebelious feel. The track itself seems to revisit the feelings expressed in "Friend or Foe" and will undoubtedly find its way into the clubs.
Track #11: Obizienka Nol [4:25] is the only song in Russian on this album. An electronic beat is matted on top of a strong rock inspired drum and bass line. I have absolutely no idea what they saying, but that aside the song itself is pretty good.
Track #12: Dangerous and Moving [4:34] reprises the relatively fast intro track and then dives straight into a slower verse. It's an interesting contrast that catches you a bit off-guard. Personally I don't care for that particular transition, but the song quickly recovers and pulls you into its electronic dance beat. This track is an excellent close to a great album.
Tatu takes us on an incredible journey in "Dangerous and Moving", and Lena and Julia's long overdue sophmore release has truly earned the right to be called a comeback album. "Dangerous and Moving" drops on October 10th — for Tatu fans it is a must buy, and for the new listeners it is a must try.
pixelbomb.com
04.09.2005 |
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