Synthetica: Pure chemical goodness.

By: Chris D’Alessandro –

Synthetics refer to something made by a chemical or artificial process.

One can only surmise that ‘Synthetica’ refers to a land of pure chemical-induced bliss. Certainly you’ll feel that the title of Metric’s latest album is appropriate, as you fire up ‘Synthetica’, you’re promptly dropped into a world of ecstasy for your ears.  It’s exciting, wild and vibrant, and yet completely relaxing. It’s like a drug.

Ok, maybe that’s waxing a bit too poetic.  That shouldn’t diminish the fact that ‘Synthetica’ is incredibly polished and auditory engaging. Metric yet again delivers a product that’s not so much an album, as an experience.  This is the kind of album you should play from top to bottom while taking a long drive at night.

It’s definitely addicting. Like previous Metric forays, once you get a little taste, you want more and more.  Even if you haven’t partaken in any Metric for a few years, one hit of ‘Youth Without Youth’, and you’ll be hooked again (although we advise against selling your mom’s TV just for concert tickets).

The tight drumming, heavy synth and sweeping vocals that make up a Metric album all make a return. While not as dark or differentiated as Metric’s previous venture, ‘Fantasies’, ‘Synthetica’ feels like a familiar handshake form an awesome friend. Fans may recognize that the arrangements and motif seem to harken back to ‘Live it Out’, but it still has it’s own unique voice. Even if there wasn’t apparent growth and development since ‘Live it Out’, how can you find fault with a recipe that’s just so euphoric?

“Synthetica, it’s better than drugs!” How’s that for a slogan?