With flavors of Krautrock, science-fiction film scores, and the side-scrolling video games of yesteryear (minus all the frustrating gameplay that makes you want to throw your NES through the wall) comes Phantom of Liberty, the third album from Berlin-based Camera. Throughout its eight tracks, Phantom of Liberty combines playful synth lines, intense live drums, squalling guitars, and a general sense of experimentation. Camera carve out a sound that is intricate yet rarely lacking for energy, directly connecting them to their Krautrock forefathers. (Think Neu! or La Düsseldorf.)
Now, before going any further, I need to issue a warning. After listening to some of this music, you may experience an irrational confidence that you can master one of those classic side-scrolling video games. I would suggest that you refrain from doing so; they are even tougher than you remember, and playing them will only lead to rage. Please, think of your family. Spare them the agony and embarrassment of having to see you that way. Leave the past in the past. Take it from me: I tried to do a speed-run of Contra after listening to Phantom of Liberty, and… well, let’s just say I don’t think I will be able to look at myself in the mirror the same way again. Same goes for trying to overthrow a tyrannical shadow government in the post-apocalyptic, not-too-distant future. Things will only end in tears.
Anyway, where was I? Oh yeah! If you promise to listen responsibly, Phantom of Liberty is out August 5 via Bureau B.
Listen to snippets of Phantom of Liberty, and check out its tracklisting, below.
Phantom of Liberty tracklist:
01. Affenfaust
02. Fröhlichkeit
03. Festus
04. Nevernine
05. Ildefons
06. Reindenken
07. Tjamahal
08. Tribal Mango
More about: Camera
