Crystal Castles

The long-awaited “(III)” scratches a two-year itch for loyal Crystal Castles fans.
Newcomers to the band, however, might be scared away.

After taking the EDM world by storm in 2008 with their chipper video game sounds, Ethan Kath (synth) and Alice Glass (vocals) have since pursued darker subject material.
“(III)” is downright nihilistic in addressing themes of oppression and global violence.

Singles “Wrath of God” and “Plague” exemplify the band’s more abrasive sound and attitude, but their formula is essentially still the same. Kath writes catchy hooks and then femme-fatale Glass sings haunting lyrics with them.

Crystal Castles’ live shows are explosions of light and sound, masses of sweaty people rioting and raving to goth-club anthems.

Compressing this madness into an organized 12-track release does not accurately represent why they make music. Kath and Glass could far and away be described better as performers than musicians, and it shows on this album.

Nevertheless, “(III)” is perfect for listeners who don’t mind an unsettling new wave tone.

At least this album might make people who enjoy Depeche Mode and Nine Inch Nails smile for once.

By Jeff LaFave