Lthrboots - Domination

Lthrboots (sic) may be, at least on the outside, a bad case of Industrial naming syndrome. The name deliberately misses a letter and is far from the most original of titles. That being said, Industrial bands tend to be bigger the more deformed their band name is.

Lthrboots is Jerry Jones, and this is his 3rd official album. It's the first in an absolute age, and Jones seems to have everything in image and concept. I was absolutely convinced that this was going to be a terrible Techno act that sounds like Praga Khan (No one other than Praga Khan could ever get away with it). However, if you go deeper (Inception memes not welcome) then there's countless melodies, layers and beats behind this act.

The title track kicks off the CD, and admittedly I find it tough to pigeon-hole this sound. It reminds me of Third Realm combined with Nitzer Ebb. The melodies are built around a powerful semi-spoken vocal, and are timed to emphasis the bridge and main beat of each track.

Whereas I previously assumed that the name of this project was a nod to sexual deviance, I question this notion and wonder if it's more of a tribute to Industrial dance - Lthrboots is not a heavy, abrasive act at all - it's suitably danceable, lyrics are clear and fun, and everything is audible.

'My Salvation' sounds like 'Her Rosary' from Third Realm in places, which is one of my favourite songs. 'Evolution' is a more haunting vocal that revolves around a more subtle synth, reminding me of Front Line Assembly, and 'Domination' is a possible album of the year.

Production is clear and thought out. Vocals are performed with aplomb and confidence. Musically, Jones has no noticeable weakness and his obvious eagerness to adapt, evolve, and recreate older style EBM sounds show me that this project is capable of both intelligent and educated ideas.

Twelve tracks suits an album like this, and while admiring a simple but great booklet, the final thing that caught my eye was the variety of the song titles - we go from the cliched 'Sex Bitch' to the more sombre 'Falling Into Silence'.

I think that Lthrboots is an amalgamation of EBM and Industrial's finest moments forged into a weapon of audial power and strength.
If I have to give Jerry one piece of lasting advise moving on from this, I'd suggest putting some remixes out there, as I'd be keen to see what he can do with other artist's ideas.

Straight 7/10, and If each of you want to know which track on this album will appeal to your personal tastes, leave me a comment. I'm sure Jerry won't mind hooking you up with a sample. Oct 06 2011