Critical Mass - Critical Mass (CD)

All Music Guide

If you want to experience the state of the art in techno-industrial music, look no further than the Metropolis Records stable, home to such avatars of synthesized heaviosity as Wumpscut, Funker Vogt, Frontline Assembly, and Crocodile Shop. This fine sampler gives a good idea of what to expect from the label in general: well-produced, sometimes surprisingly complex and funky variations on the dark worldview and oppressive beats that typify the neo-gothic industrial scene. If you prefer the funkier stuff, take note of Rhea's Obsession, whose "Between Earth and Sky (Maximum Tabla Mix)" is one of the most attractive items on this album, or the always great Frontline Assembly, who checks in with the rhythmically intricate and texturally deep "Retribution." If oppressiveness is more your style, check out the charmingly fascist Crocodile Shop ("Without order there is no joy/don't be so lazy") or the ponderously Teutonic Decoded Feedback, whose "Endless Light" sounds like a cross between Wagne...r and Front 242. Recommended. - Rick Anderson, All Music Guide Read more Less