Subsource - Tales from the Doombox

Subsource
Tales from the Doombox

Nearly two years ago, Subsource were described in the Metro as “the best cyberpunk riot since The Prodigy”. That rings true a little with these guys, though it’s not entirely heartening to see them using a quote from that long ago, as if nothing good’s been said about them since.

Nonetheless, Subsource’s newest effort Tales from the Doombox is genuinely enjoyable in a number of ways. It embraces a unique mix of electronica, dubstep, hip-hop, metal and rock to create something that is edging into the realms of impressive originality.

You see, The Prodigy always leaned more towards a filthier bass, a stronger dance beat and in many cases, were heavier with rock than anything else. Not a bad thing, might I add… quite the opposite. Meanwhile, Pendulum were a metal band with strobe lighting for the most part, and had to largely lean on a remix of ‘Voodoo People’ by the aforementioned British groupmaestros to make a proper name for themselves. Not a great thing on CD, though they still remain a fantastic live act.

Subsource, however, take many elements from their predecessors and – perhaps most importantly – remain consistent in their use of crashing drums, production values and great vocal talent. What’s more, the lyrics actually mean both things and stuff, which is pretty impressive.

Sadly, Tales from the Doombox is an effort which will likely not be recognised. If/when this kind of stuff makes it to the radio – probably with late-night Radio 1 shows – it’ll fall into a category that is rarely tracked for big names; a land filled with remixes and EPs. If a tune’s popular, such as the truly doom-filled single ‘The Ides’, it may do well, though I honestly think that most people will assume it’s a B-side from the likes of the already oft-mentioned Prodigy and Pendulum.

Which is a shame, I guess, though after reading the remarkably self-aware press release from the band themselves – one where they say that they are “representing the underground UK music dance scene” and that “no treaty will be signed” between the genres they fuse and that “occupation will be total” – they lose a little credibility.

After all, they’re not that good. They stray from the formula enough to be different though not enough to be truly unique. I reckon another album should do these guys justice, and I can guarantee their heady mix of musical styles will come off particularly well live, so get yourself checking the dates.

By Matt Gardner

Tales from the Doombox is out on Doombox Records on April 5th.