Review By Heather Laing
CARPENTER BRUT
LEATHER TERROR
OUT APRIL 1ST VIA UNIVERSAL MUSIC
Carving his name into an alternative world once again, Carpenter Brut returns with his fifth album ‘Leather Terror.’ Carpenter Brut is no stranger to success given his history in the alternative scene. The French Darksynth artist has a grand total of four albums to count, with the second recorded with the help of fans at a live show, the fourth taking pride of place as the soundtrack for Sci-fi / Musical movie ‘Blood Machines.’ With a combined total of 39 songs, three EP’s, and a movie soundtrack to his name; its clear this artist has an incredible talent that has yet to disappoint the Darksynth world, and it doesn’t seem like he is ready to start now. While the title may promise screams of fright, their will surely be nothing but cries of joy at the upcoming album ‘Leather Terror.’ This album has got it all for Carpenter Brut fans, whether they’re searching for that nostalgic feel or just eagerly awaiting the new and unique, there is a track for everyone. The album opens with one of this artists more traditional methods, having the introducing and the following song be purely instrumental by design. The tracks ‘Opening Title’ and ‘Straight outta hell’ deliver a gut punching introduction of thundering drum, base, and guitar; a concoction of power warped together with industrial effects and explosive noises that will have fans quite literally shaking in their shoes. The following tracks hold nothing back, bringing in new combinations with each individual song. Certain tracks like ‘The Widow Maker’ (released early on March 17th, 2022) and ‘Night Prowler’ have enough powerful Sci-fi elements to be reminiscent of the best of Blood Machines, combined with intense heavy metal guitar, harsh sounds that make you feel like you’re standing in a storm. Others like ‘Imaginary Fire’ wouldn’t be missed in the background of an epic showdown between a mighty hero and his greatest rival, having taken on a more electric theme with powerful vocals and a fast but consistent tempo. This album also has something a little different from the norm; with the track ‘… Goodnight Goodbye’ breaking away from his traditional style to follow a much slower tempo, partnered with much more gentle sounds as well as mournful vocals of a classic power ballad. With all of this and more to offer, I have no doubts Carpenter Brut and his new album will get all of the attention and praise he deserves. This is an artist with an incredible talent, and it is something he is rightfully determined to share with the world. Carving his name into the Darksynth scene, and we have never been happier to see it.
CARPENTER BRUT UK HEADLINE SHOWS – NOVEMBER 2022
4th – Manchester, O2 Academy
5th – London, Shepherd’s Bush Empire
6th – Bristol, O2 Academy