Sirenia
1977 – Napalm Records
Since forming in 2001, it’s been open sail for Norwegian/international act Sirenia. A constant evolution, in both personnel and sound, has been the key to their longevity, and studio album number eleven finds them shapeshifting some more. 1977 captures the band incorporating synthwave, along with ‘70s and ‘80s rock trends, and the result is Sirenia’s most accessible release to date. With the pomp of Floodland-era Sisters Of Mercy, things get off to a grandiose start with the atmospheric ‘Deadlight’ and the band rarely look back over 48 rumbustious minutes. Current vocalist Emmanuelle Zolden is in fine form and her words embrace the melodies like lovers in an illicit tryst, while original member Morten Veland hasn’t lost his knack for writing muscular riffs and ensures each song packs the requisite punch. That ‘80s influence comes to the fore on ‘Delirium’, a song that captures Depeche Mode at their darkest, and on closer, a surprise cover of Tanita Tikaram’s ‘Twist In My Sobriety’. The band tackle it head on, imprint their own indelible stamp on it, and claim ownership (which is surely the only way to approach a cover). While many bands of Sirenia’s vintage are happily ensconced on the heritage circuit, Sirenia have a desire to forge forwards. And long may that continue.
Review by Peter Dennis