SNVFF - [SNUFF]

Though we're about three-quarters of the way through the year, that does not mean there aren't many surprises left to his us. I think one of the most exciting and new things to come from 2014 would be the creation of Blind Mice Productions by Pete Crane and Ben Bulig, otherwise known as the gentleman behind SHIV-R. Storming the realm of digital distribution, they also aim to make their label a production powerhouse to fuel each and every release that passes through their talented palms. Setting focus on not only full length releases, but also EPs and singles, they hope to create a label more agile and fluid than most others.

However, though a label can be all talk, the music that they put out is where potential lies. And, in a bit of celebration to welcome the new label to the internet and fans that might not have heard of them so far, I'll be doing a double feature on their two debut acts, the first of which is SNVFF.

Homing in Sydney, this duo consists of one known as SHE on vocals and The Tormentor coming across with sounds. At one time being romantically pleasant with gorgeous vocals and shimmering noise, these two can also work up a diabolical scheme to absolutely darken and destroy all that stands in their path. And their four track, self-titled release is nothing short of brilliant.

Sunday Mourning is the first track to kick off the EP; taking no time to introduce us to the payers behind the instruments, SHE's vocals hit off nicely, almost moaning, but dragging at the same time to great effect. The Tormentor's instrumentation serve to heighten the overall experience, as rock like drums pair with synths that glitch in and out; it's a simple formula that's pulled off very well, perhaps even more so than other veterans of the genre.

Infatuation hit in next, this time a bit of ambience and electronic, sort of desolate sounds coming through. I imagined myself on a space ship that just crashed in an Alien-esque type movie; the haunting vocals from SHE soon comes in to pair alongside it. When the bass drops and the beat really forms, the overall sound is even more glorious than before; little piano twangs play out in the background, and the creepy effects present in the beginning never go away; they lurk in the background just to remind you of the roots of this track.

Genesis has a bit of an Asian accent to it, utilizing a sort of Samurai like sound to it in order to create a fairly ritualistic, maybe even tribal feel to it. The blend of slower electronics with the ancient sounds and chantings make for a pretty good atmosphere. By far, my favorite sections of this song came during the more quiet, instrumental parts that played out right before SHE came right back in with more of her wickedly sung chords and lyrics. Again, I have absolutely no complaints about this song.

Lastly, Count the Dead slammed in last, and had a faster rhythm than the previous songs. Definitely more catchy and much more dance worthy, this track showcased a new side to the act. Not completely new, but it showcases what they can do with something different. From The Tormentor's devilishly spun out sounds, to SHE's screams, whispers, and just overall cries of agony, this track served well to end off the album.

And, well, Blind Mice did a fantastic job of picking these guys up. An amalgamation of love from various genres and influences were stuck in a blender to create one of the most drinkable industrial-based smoothies that I've had the pleasure of downing in quite some time. Doused with some hard liquor for that electrifying taste and a naughty feeling, I am definitely looking forward to a full length from these two demented beings. Check them out. Aug 27 2014