FLUXEUROPA: SHADOWDANCE

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SHADOWDANCE

SHADOWDANCE is a 'New Romantic'-influenced goth duo from Liverpool. Formed by Paul Shaw in 1994, the project was later joined by Corrina Thomas and has issued three demo tapes. These are Black Rain Demos (1995), from which 'Break this Chain' appears on the Enlightenment Communications compilation, Luxuria 2; Decade of Sin (1996); and Dearest Departed (1996). The latter features Paul (vocals, bass, guitars, keyboards and percussion) and Corrina (vocals). They are joined by Lee (additional guitars), and all songs are written and recorded by Paul.

I was a great fan of New Romantic music in its time, but it does sound dated, so I think the best tracks are the least synth-poppy ones. The introductory track, for example, has a really good gothic-ambient sound but it's sadly all too short. Most of the other tracks feature a swirling and gurgling synth with a fairly driving beat, and the rather abrupt intros and endings one associates with synth music. The male and female vocals go well together, but it's difficult to comment on the lyrics because the voice parts are not given enough volume in the sound-mix.

'Love and Hate' has a more gothic feel and 'The Lords Madness' has a really good sound. The synth part is still strongly in evidence, but the folky tune and vocals show real promise. I also liked 'Through this Nightmare', a very pleasant pop ballad with good vocals from Corrina and a nostalgic feel.

Shadowdance are currently looking for more musicians, and, of course, to be signed. With some change of emphasis and better mixing they will no doubt succeed. Unlike some people, I am certainly not against synth music per se, but in the absence of organic instruments I think it can gain a great deal from a little more camouflage. Additional musicians would obviously provide this.

All the demo tapes are available for sale. Black Rain Demos and Decade of Sin are £3.50 each including p&p (£4.50 overseas), while Dearest Departed is £4 (£4.75 overseas), payable to J Renshaw.

Shadowdance can be contacted at:

Black Rain Productions
24 Sydenham Avenue
Sefton Park
Liverpool
Merseyside
L17 3AX

Black Rain Productions also organise an Attic Night (Goth/Industrial/Darkwave) and an Electric Night (New Romantic etc) at a Liverpool pub venue. Please contact them for current details.

Rik - 27 January 1996