ALBUM: Icicle 'Theorems' - GigslutzGigslutz

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Theorems is the second album from Bulgarian-born Krassy Halatchev – aka Icicle. Now based in Montreal, The multi-talented artist returns with twelve pop-laced, alternative tracks on his new record with a sound described as “Simple Minds having a baby with Depeche Mode and Placebo” (Pamela Chelin, Rolling Stone).

Opening track ‘Queue Me’ is a carefully thought out instrumental. It contains a raucous electric guitar riff which is coolly contrasted with a contemplative keyboard piece. The blending of percussion and synths adds an alternative edge to the track, and this leads seamlessly in to the next track.

‘The Angels Forgot How To Fly’ introduces Icicle’s cool vocal style. The casually misanthropic lyrics are kept up-beat by a funky bass hook. The track is repetitive, but it leads well in to ‘Tattoo Cross Your Heart’. ‘Time Is Not On Your Side’ is similar in sound too, which unfortunately means it disappears from the memory quickly after listening. ‘U-Turn’ is a return to alternative form with its heavier bass line and erratic synths and drums, but again – the track’s repetitive nature may cause some listeners to zone out.

‘I Am An Ant’, however, provides a welcome change in pace and style. Icicle makes the track’s title a repeated statement, before the pace picks up and his rant-like lyrics begin. ‘Ready To Steer’ showcases the strength in Icicle’s vocals, and they sit comfortably on top of his choice of synths and percussion. The albums two main singles – ‘On and On’ and ‘Calma Calma’ – close the record, and are both further examples of Icicles skill in turning out odd, yet catchy pop tunes.

Fans of unusual yet accessible pop/rock will enjoy Icicle’s latest offering on Theorems, but it may be unfortunately overlooked by listener’s looking for more than ‘Coke, Popcorn and Bubblegum’.

Theorems is available to pre-order from BandCamp from 01.09.15, and is released on Herd Records on 15.09.15.