The story goes that Katsen formed after music lovers Chris Blackburn and Donna Grimaldi met at a craft market in Brighton.  Grimaldi was there to sell her boldly colourful covered mixtapes and caught the eye of Blackburn.  Blackburn couldn’t resist the covers and a partnership was formed.  A little while later, the pair were sat round at Grimaldi’s listening to excerpts from her extensive record collection when they decided to dispense with the already recorded and make some musical magic of their own.  Out came Blackburn’s synth and they would let their musical souls run wild for the night.  The result It Hertz, 12 tracks of occasional electronic interest.

Neither Blackburn nor Grimaldi offer strong vocals, however they do not let this get in the way.  A credible record does not always need at its helm a strong voice, as long as the finished product is diverse and interesting then what difference do the vocals make?

Katsen’s influences are easy to see.  Once again the 80s is back with a passion and the pair draw on their love on Human League and OMD to inspire their sound.  However, unlike the very mainstream La Roux, Katsen are unafraid when it comes to taking inspiration to spark creation.  Though the electronic sound is still very era defined, Katsen refuse to stay in that box.  Their passion for 50s chic and 70s krautrock add interesting dynamics to the likes of “Chequered Flag” and “What You Want”.

Katsen are not afraid to re-work past classics, however they are determined to put their own stamp on any work they do.  Le Tigre transformed ‘I’m So Excited’ and so Katsen attempt The Pixies’ “Cactus” and The Passions’ “German Film Star”.  Though Katsen clearly admire The Pixies bass heavy stylings, it is their working of the lesser known “German Film Star” which really stand outs.  A laid back Grimaldi purrs her way through what is easily the album’s really success story.

With the music market dominated by 1980s influenced artists, it is refreshing to finally hear an act who take the sound and really own it.  It’s Hertz is by no means a complete success, but there is enough to entice and interest on a competent debut.