Written by : Eric Sperrazza
The mid-sixties gave the world mind-bending psychedelic rock, a style of music meant best to be enjoyed on some variation of a vision quest, utilizing new experimental recording techniques, sound effects, and elongated rhythmic solos. Later, John Lydon (the once and future Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols.) would take experimental sounds, synthesizing chords, and various styles to the next level with his band, Public Image Ltd. Pil, as it is affectionately referred to, would be credited for ushering in the industrial rock revolution of the 90’s, giving us legendary acts such as Nine Inch Nails, KMFDM, and Stabbing Westward. But what if you took the immersive journey that was psychedelic rock and you combined it with a dark industrial sound…all while sending it down a dark alley after last call? You would have the two-man group known as Mind Control System.
In 2020, friends Kev McGuire (vocals, guitar, electronics, samples, saxophone) and Dave Robinson (synths, drums, guitar, bass, backing vocals, samples) would join forces in Manchester to form Mind Control System. Both with history playing with bands going back to the 80’s, they finally would begin recording what would become their collective debut album, Black Acid. With four tracks to speak of, there is close to a 40-minute journey you embark on through a labyrinth of sound, consumed in an ambience of anxiety. From the opening track, “Pulse,” you are lifted off on a speed-laden roller coaster ride that takes you deep into the foggy annals of your own thoughts, convincing you that you are hearing what bad decisions sound like. At times it is darkly curious and other times it feels violently sexual. And yet, before it’s all said and done, you are gently placed back to where you started and oddly feeling complete.
If you like audible psychedelic experiences, you need to hear this album. If you like Progressive Rock, you need to hear this album. If you like German industrial, you need to hear this album. Most of all, if you are tired of the same cookie-cutter bullshit the algorithms and Top 40 stations are trying to force-feed you, you owe it to yourself to hear this album.
Check out Mind Control System at:
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