Uberbyte - NFY

'NFY' is the fourth album of the UK based electronic band Uberbyte consisting of eleven tracks following their previous three releases: 'SIC', 'DOS' and 'EXS'. This album is a risky leap into a new sound and thus has generated mixed responces from fans either loving or hating it. The new sound is reminiscent of their older work but it combines a wide range of influences from various genres such as Techno, Gabber, Dance and Aggrotech. Each track on this album has its own unique vibe which doesn't compromise the overall sound or style and resonates a strong consistency as you keep listening. However much I hate comparing bands, I must say that fans of Combichrist, Nachtmahr and Noisuf-X can easily adjust and love this new sound created by Uberbyte.

I had previous knowledge of two tracks from previous downloads and compilations. The last track, "Money Shot" was available for free download direct from Uberbyte's homepage and like its name suggests, is a very sexually explicit song... I think that's all needs saying about that. The other song is "Gott Mit Oontz" which was released as part of a free VampireFreaks release with other various artists, this track however is a very simple but danceable track which I felt alludes to some music of Scooter with the short male vocals and then some almost 'chipmunk' vocals for the chorus. On this track too there is a powerful, addictive surging electronic synth which really pushes this out as a good track.

The first track on the album is "Hellalamein" which brings you into the realm of 'NFY', heavy bouncy bass and wobbly sounds together with the really memorable lyrics are altogether great. The second track is "SpionKop" (referring to the war between South African Republic and the Orange Free State on the one hand and British forces), similar to the first is another good track, definitely one to dance to, the pounding oontz and military-like synth sounds should get you marching in no time.

A track which really prevails is the third track, "Hardcore Industrial" which is essentially Gabber tuned to an industrial flavour. Now I'm not really a huge fan of Gabber but somehow, Uberbyte have won me over! "This is hardcore Industrial". There is only one track I feel doesn't compete to the standard of the other ten tracks and that is "M0wr F0Cking C0wbell", don't get me wrong, it is a strong track with a really dirty bassline but I feel it's a bit repetitive, then again, I have heard a lot worse. Other tracks are great and this album is highly recommended simply because one, it's Uberbyte! and two, it's something new for you to try! My congratulations go out to these guys, the bravery and experimental mindset is something musicians should use more often.

So if you're a fan of Uberbyte already or want to give them a try, get this! Not only is it catchy and completely re-listenable over and over again but it's something you wont find more of with the individuality (but consistency) of each track. It is hard to pick a dominant track or most successful as all the tracks fail to let me down but those which I feel fans would enjoy most are "Gott Mit Oontz", "We Are Dead", "Volte Face", "(Fuck Me) Like You Don't" and "Money Shot".

If I were to rate this album based on my subjective opinion then I would have to give a solid nine! I barely hear any flaws but alas, the mixed reaction from fans means I must give this a resentful seven, rating purely on their production and originality but moreover their difference in sound from their previous three releases. If you're not convinced on your first listen, then listen again! Don't finish reading this review thinking "it's probably just another run of the mill album", I have nothing but praise for this!

Play it loud and play it proud! Sep 17 2011