Code 64 - Leaving Earth

The last time we heard from this band from Lysekil (Swedish village) was when they released their debut album Storm in 2003. A little unexpected, Code 64 open there longed for single, Leaving Earth, with a remix by Universal Poplab. The same track also take part in the forms of the bands own "Single Edit" and a remix by Thermostatic. If I would be completely honest I think that Universal Poplab's radio friendly version of the track probably is the weakest one, but I think we are able to see some tactics from the band behind this choice.

"Leaving Earth" is, despite version, one of Code 64''s most strongest product during their carrier, even though most peoples favourite "Without You" from the debut album is still hard to beat. Universal Poplab makes the song cute, radio friendly and with great influences from synth pop from the 80's. "Single Edit" is placed as the third track and here we are able to enjoy the great, swinging futurepop which made the band famous and I don't think anyone will be disappointed. Last track, number five, is Thermostatic's remix which is really exciting. Filled with C64 sounds and a dragging and swinging bass.

And the three different versions of the title track is not all. As the second track the band offers us a cosy cover of New Order's hit "True Faith", which is really unexpected in my opinion. The B-side "Saying Hello" in a pop mix becomes the fourth track and unfortunately I think it's a little bit meaningless, even though it's hard not to sing along with the lyrics.

This is a very strong warm up for the coming album Departure which will be released during spring 2006.

This review was written 2005 and initially published on Neurozine.com Jan 01 2005