Deflore – 2 Degrees of Separation

Industrial, electronic, metal – whatever the hell this record is – it’s a soulless journey that never revs the engine, let alone puts the foot down. 2 Degrees of Separation is such a downer it comes across as an emotionless and dated trip. Seemingly popular in Europe, Deflore’s blend of programmed drums and muddy guitars, coupled with some ghastly synthesized strings does nothing but infuriate.

Described as “six trips inside the sick minds of Deflore” it would make for a forgettable soundtrack to one of those awful, budget teen-horror films that go straight to DVD week-in week-out. When progressive rock, electronica, or metal really excels it can challenge a listener, pushing their tastes to the limit but delivering enough enjoyment to intrigue and warrant return visits. Sitting through such onerous and indulgent songs as these however proves to be more than a challenge, it’s a punishment. [Alan Souter]