Substaat - Refused

The debut album from Substaat, with the same name as the band, from last year was a great success and a very joyful album, especially with the superb track "Unstuck". And with "Unstuck" fresh in mind, I was hoping that their new single 'Refused' would have a hit track of the same caliber. Unfortunately, it does not reach all the way, however, blessing you three solid tracks.

Since I love the voice of Terje, it's hard not to like the (surprisingly) slow track "Refused". At first, I discarded this track totally as an okay track and could be used on an album, but far from single material. However, I must say that I found myself humming on it the last few days, so it sure has potential, all thanks to an excellent chorus.

Funny enough, the second track "Berlin", is probably the track with most hit potential. It is a fast and happy tune with a bit harder synthpop vibes and a great chorus and melody. It makes me wonder if perhaps the single should not have been named 'Berlin' instead.

Third and final track, "Drive Again", is even slower than the title track, with grumbling and rumbling synths, Terje and his posse takes us for a slow, but scary, spin without destination. I like this track as a B-side, as it differs from the A-side(s). In a single, I don't want the hear the same type track twice, I want something a bit different and experimental for the second side. Brilliant choice.

Even though I don't feel Substaat reaches full potential, it's still solid and good vibe for the upcoming second album. By the way, anyone else that get Spetsnaz flashbacks from the cover art? Jun 26 2012