WAX IDOLS: Discipline & Desire (LP)

Format: LP
Genre: Post Punk
Label: Slumberland Records
Release Date: 23.07.2013
Order Number: AV4601841

It seems odd that the four-piece Wax Idols reside in Oakland, California. Especially considering the fact that the band’s sophomore LP Discipline & Desire out 3rd June on Slumberland Records, embodies a dark, full, twisted sound; something that feels more appropriate to the foggy, damp British climate than that of sunny California. Compare to Wax Idol’s debut LP No Future (a raw, hook heavy punk effort released on Hozac Records), Discipline & Desire is a more haunted and melodic affair, featuring co-production from Mark Burgess (of The Chameleons). First single “Sound of a Void” is a storming, full throated late night anthem, while “Dethrone” shimmers and throbs, Wax Idol’s take on pop. They are then accompanied by slower numbers like the feedback laced “AD RE:IAN”. These strands unify to create a balanced post-punk influenced album with gothic overtones. “Essential listening for anyone in a gothic mood” - Pitchfork