Rebirth, and not so Horror

Immediately upon first listen and impression, The Horrors, once a band that embraced the eclectic goth-inspired punk of groups such as X and The Cramps, has taken a turn toward the artistic ethereal in their new 2011 album, Skying. For instance, in the first track, aptly entitled "Changing The Rain" warm Devo-esque synth replaces thin thrash guitar, diving head first into a post-modern 80s fabric. There's almost a wombedelia feel, treating us, musically to a sound reminiscent of the later Echo and the Bunnymen, or more recently, the Arcade Fire flare.

Maturity works well with them; clearly the emphasis has shifted to songscaping. The mood less black and letting in various shades of color. One heard glimpses of this on their former outing, Primary Colours, but never to the concentrated extent. It's a shedding of the garage band clank, but a new direction, and in the best possible way.

Definite cheers for this release.