Taylor Hoodlum Stevenson - Daeva

Canadian based italo disco/EBM producer Taylor Hoodlum Stevenson marks his label debut via Giallo Disco Records with "Daeva", a four track digital EP that's as psychedelic as it is funky. There are a lot of people who will scratch their head trying to wrap their mind around an italo disco/EBM crossover, but the best way to really learn of it is to just listen to these explosive dancefloor bangers. There's even a slight bit of synthpop influence that finds itself in with the mix. Think of music that would play at an 80s high school dance in a cheesy horror flick where a mutant is about to run rampant as the kids are locked behind the school's walls, and you'll have a good idea as to what "Daeva" sounds like. 

Both the title track and 'Baby Doll' are the two vocal tracks on the album. While I sit here and think to myself that if Elvis Presley were instead born as an electronic musician this is exactly how he'd sound, Stevenson has an irresistible sound and aura about him. Taking the best of 80s pop and sticking it in a blender with softer EBM basslines, Stevenson has created a sound that I don't think I've ever heard before. 'Baby Doll' showcases Stevenson's more rock-like vocal set, with a slight strain on his chords that works well. 

The next two tracks are 'Slob Commandos (Traumatize)' and 'Subway Stalker'. This is where a genre shift occurs; you won't necessarily be hearing any major pop references or even EBM styled beats. If anything, these two instrumental tracks dive more into the witch house field. I'd say that they are more rhythmic and less dragged out than the standard witch house beat, but they still fit well within the circuit. Either way, both tracks are well produced and Stevenson hit the nail on the head. 

I also highly recommend you get the vinyl version before it's sold out over the digital, as the vinyl will hold a fifth, bonus track. But, still, if you only manage to pick up the digital release it will do you know wrong. "Daeva" is a wonderful showcase of Taylor Hoodlum Stevenson's varied styles and production skills. 
Nov 28 2015