The Dark Villager likes to play…with sounds, with voices, with images, with perceptions. And with names. He is also known as “Dr. Dark”, and the equally elusive “Ant”. He is as comfortable performing a Medieval-sounding folk song, or a silly song and dance, as he is executing a complicated, highly technical piece.

Go to his YouTube site and prepare to be impressed. There is so much going on in his music, so many ways to become wondrously lost within its different layers of sound.

“System” is his most recent offering, his third full album, following the release of Disconnected” (February 2009), “Wanted” - EP (November 2008), and “Twisted” (October 2008).
The first track on this CD is it‘s namesake, “System”, and is a perfect first glimpse of what is to come. The message here is “Prepare for Take-off!”, and “Let’s get Funky!” I love his voice(s) in this one. .
An edgy feeling really comes to the fore on “Frustrated”, the second track. “In your face”, states it well. This is dance music with a driving beat, that makes you want to get up and move. I couldn’t keep still with this one.
“Robotica” is a percussion-driven piece, very structured, where Ant uses a digitized voice to enhance the feel of mechanization here.
“Acidized”, is a fun track, with a carnival feel to it; and a very techno/retro flavour. “Futurama”, dominated by a mechanical, futuristic voice, is a measured and evenly paced piece.
“Electronic” is imposing and complicated, and at almost six minutes long, the longest track on the CD - and what a ride! Ant layers the music here with the precision of a surgeon.
“Dr. Dark” is an ominous, eerie track, in which the conversation between man and machine is almost inexorably intertwined with the music. As the dialog continues, it becomes apparent that it is the mechanical voice that is exhibiting emotion, whereas the man’s voice is not. Nice twist.
“Charlie” reminds me of The Prodigy; Heavy techno, with a rave beat, and loud, arrogant vocals.
“One” is a nice, pop-style ballad. It has an innocent feel; fun, happy and upbeat. I am reminded of the Pet Shop Boys here. It’s a catchy tune, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming it, or absent-mindedly singing the chorus.
“Heroes” starts calmly. Ant’s masterful layering is again showcased, and no sound goes un-noticed. The feeling builds and swells, but always with an air of restraint, and with a very nice ending, not pompous or over-the-top.
“Today” is the final track. Another ballad, but not a ballad as you would imagine one to be. This is driving, pulsating, and loud, but with Ant’s very human voice as a nice contrast, keeping it real.

Overall, “System” is an excellent showcase of The Dark Villager’s many talents, moods and musical perceptions. Just what the Dr. ordered.

Many thanks to MC for this awesome review of the 'System' album :-)




Get the System album here (click)