Released
May 1998

Label
Pendragon Records

Reviewed by
Matt Simpson

Visit
THD


Last Edit/Update
12 July, 1999

THD
Total Harmonic Distortion

Under A Statik Sky

Track Listing

1. I I OO
2. A Halogen Glow
3. Some Urban Myths
4. TR Generation
5. Check It Out
6. A Sad Low Bit World
7. Another Solvent Bath
8. Rusted
9. Metro
10. Under A Statik Sky
11. Clearbluechrome

    Considered a fusion of Haujobb and Future Sound of London, Total Harmonic Distortion (aka THD) presents their fourth album; the second effort released on Pendragon. Under A Statik Sky combines elements of trip-hop, industrial, and, most apparant, drum and bass to create a masterpiece of fresh work.
    Picking up where their previous release, "Watz Your Program?" left off, THD delves further into the programmed dark sound characteristic of Haujobb. The influences cited (which include Download as well) are definately audible, but THD is no rip-off. Rather than exploring variations on grooves and drum loops, this release consists of more skilled construction and production into unpredictability. The programming, in my opinion, is incredible. This is definately not a standard drum and bass/industrial hybrid - it's very well created with originality and talent bursting at the seams. Moods and essences erupt from the sounds, as the songs are very danceable yet somewhat dark and mysterious.
    I must say I was VERY impressed with this. Their previous effort was very good, but left something to be desired. The THD sound has matured incredibly in a short time. There is a definite sense of continuity in the CD - each track is distinctive, and standout songs could very well be the whole CD. I really like this.