Live Review: ALBUM REVIEW: PVT 'Homosapien'

Ever since PVT introduced vocals on their previous album Church With No Magic, a strong emotional presence started to exist in their music.

This is evident throughout Homosapien as Richard Pike again displays his talent as a vocalist, rather than solely an instrumentalist. After debuting some of their new songs at the Sydney Opera House for Vivid LIVE last year, many Australian electronic music fans have been anticipating the release of this album.

The slow-paced ‘Shiver’ is a haunting introduction to Homosapien, creating a mysterious vibe which attracts an interest in what is to follow. The next track ‘Evolution’ commences with the typical PVT sound we all love and then progresses into Pike’s deep voice with poetic lyrics.

‘Electric’, arguably one of the standout songs from their impressive performance at Vivid LIVE, takes a dark approach with the vocals beginning, “I left my heart on the railroad track, still waiting for the next train”. The chorus “I am electric”, along with some distorted guitar and eerie synthesisers mark another gloomy song that will encourage listeners to interpret hidden meaning.

One of the features of PVT’s sound is their ability to effectively combine electronic beats with live drums. The album's title track is a perfect example and will grab the attention of people who enjoyed Church With No Magic.

‘Vertigo’ is a down-tempo number with a groovy edge. Lyrics, “it feels like vertigo whenever we’re together” are simple yet strong, allowing the song to tell a story with a catchy bass line.

The first single ‘Nightfall’, officially released late last year, is fuelled with the sounds of drum machines. It is clear this will be an integral song in the set list for their upcoming Australian headline tour, scheduled for this year.

Homosapien is without doubt very different to PVT’s previous work, but this is certainly not a negative thing. Although some tracks contain a dark atmosphere, they include thought provoking lyrics and keep the electronic elements they are known for.

I wouldn’t say this is the band’s best album, but they have provided us with a quality listening experience and a heartfelt story.

Homosapien will be released on February 8th through Create/Control.

Words by Tony Kingston

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