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Illicit Eve
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Element Eleven
Mixmasters Records
Release: 5/31/2005
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Rated:
Review by:
Morley Seaver
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This is a really strong record from South Australia's Illicit
Eve. They are a three-piece outfit with a couple of girls on
guitar and bass. Emily Smart is the guitarist and vocalist
while Fliss Freeman handles bass duties. Drums are provided
by Cozmo Beregovsky on the record. He has since been
replaced by Mark Chewey.
The first cut, "Forgiveness Is Free," roars out of the blocks
with a crunchy guitar under a confident vocal. The song is
OK but I would not have started the record with it as there
are much better songs on the record. "Reborn" is a
tremendous cut with a great vocal by Emily that just draws
you in. The chorus is second-to-none, making the song
among the best of the record while a quirky synth line
towards the end of the cut helps punch it up.
"Malleable" is another excellent cut with its lazy vocal during
the verses. Another great chorus is offered up with Emily
and Fliss' nice harmonies. "Long Ago" has one of the best
melody lines on the whole record. This is a terrific song and
excellent vocal. The acoustic guitar that launches the rocker
that is "Dandelions" really helps show the band has a great
sense of dynamics. "Revolution" is another compelling cut
with a rhythm that just draws you in. This one has a nice
little funky break and a tasty bass line.
The title cut comes at you with an energy that is undeniable,
powered by a great melody line and honey-dipped vocals.
"Ordinary Angel" is a gorgeous song with a really strong
chorus. "Last Confession" mixes up a bit of grit with the
tunefulness.
Element Eleven is an excellent record that
bubbles over with melody and energy. Emily Smart's
arresting vocals are a centre-point of the record, especially
when combined with Fliss Freeman's, which is stocked with
really top-notch songs. The bass lines of Freeman really help
support each song, giving them muscle but never
overpowering the affair. Let's hope North American
audiences will get to see them soon. |
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