Artist: Front 242 Album: 05:22:09:12 Off

Year: 1993
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Front 242's Album 05:22:09:12

Front 242 is a legendary Belgian electronic music group that first surfaced in the early 1980s. They have released numerous albums throughout their career and have contributed significantly to the development of industrial and electronic music. In this blog post, we will be taking a closer look at their 2011 album 05:22:09:12 and offering a critical review of its contents. We will also provide some background information about Front 242 and the music genre that they belong to.

The album 05:22:09:12 is a significant release by Front 242, marking their return to music after a long hiatus. The album is a tribute to their hometown of Brussels and was released on September 5, 2011, which is the exact date when the city was hit by a terrorist attack. The album contains 10 tracks that combine industrial, techno, and electro elements. The album's opening track Lovely Day introduces the listener to a soundscape of grinding synth riffs, distorted vocals, and pounding drums.

One of the album's most innovative parts is the use of vocal samples and effects. In tracks like Together and Take One, the group uses samples of political speeches and protests, adding a layer of socio-political commentary to their music. The track Slaughter is another standout, featuring a driving bassline and eerie atmospherics that create a sense of tension and unease.

Despite its strengths, 05:22:09:12 has some flaws that prevent it from being a perfect album. Some of the tracks on the album feel repetitive and lack the distinctive hooks and melodies that the group is known for. The track Kinetics is an example of this, as it drones on without much variation. The album's closing track Leitmotiv 136 is also a bit of a letdown, as it fails to offer a satisfying conclusion to the album's journey.

One of the best songs on the album is Tactical Neural Implant - an anthem that perfectly captures the group's signature industrial sound. The track features distorted vocals, pounding drums, and crunchy synth riffs that will get any dancefloor moving. Spray is another standout track, featuring a catchy synth hook and an infectious rhythm that will stay in your head long after the song is over.

Overall, Front 242's album 05:22:09:12 is a solid release that showcases the group's versatility and ability to experiment with different genres and sounds. While it may not be their best work, it still contains some memorable tracks that demonstrate why Front 242 is still relevant today. The album's socio-political commentary and use of vocal samples add a layer of depth and meaning that further enhances the listening experience. If you're a fan of industrial, techno, or electronic music, this album is definitely worth checking out.