Damian Robinson discovers a smart pop album from Crack Cloud
Meat Machine
Released: 17.07.20
Driven by the type of meaning that only arrives courtesy of intense back stories, the Crack Cloud collective have cultivated a heady reputation in the underground music press not just as a relentless group of artists but also for their interesting new-wave/post-punk sound. Whilst their 2018 live, seven-piece, outing at The Cluny showcased more of the post-punk/guitar sides of their music, Pain Olympics, their debut album, provides an opportunity for more of their keyboard/loops/electronic/hip-hop elements to shine.
Driven by a Devo meets Bad Audio Dynamite ability to combine intelligent pop funk with interesting samples and layered textures, Pain Olympics is a master work in production and combining smart pop with interesting art.