Severed Heads – Under Gail Succubus

This is a kick ass severed heads album. I'm one of the lucky ones that was able to buy it when it was offered in 2006. Hopefully it will receive a proper reissue! My cdr is looking a little scratchy!

The final Severed Heads studio recording, the final word in the history of this Aussie pioneeristic and influential electronic outfit. This is a goregous work, with a first part in which the classic sound of the late 80's comes back completely transformed, updated and sharpened, free of any retro-cheesiness and in service of a modern yet immediately recognizable style. "Inside The Girl" is the top notch tune here, the last true SH classic. Tom's vocals return on the scene, but they sound distant, somehow colder and more mature, perfectly matching the music.

"Bruise Vienna" and, most of all, "Over Barbara Island" are soundtracks for installations, the latter being definitely the most interesting. Severed Heads go back to their more experimental and even noiser side in this very last output. Headphone listening recommended.

Unfortunately, the limited quantity pressed at the time of its release by Tom himself at Sevcom and sold directly to customers through the website won't make it easy to track down a copy. It's definitely worth the hunt, especially for those who know nothing of what Severed Heads did put out after "City Slab Horror".