Midnight Resistance is a German Synth Pop group comprised of three members: Nico, Gorden, and Gregsen. They have released their first full-length album, “Remote,” on the Different Drum label. First, by way of a disclaimer, I will admit I’m not much of a Synth Pop guy. There are exceptions, of course. Some of the Synth Pop experimentation by bands like Radiohead, Bjork, and Nine Inch Nails reaches me, but by and large it’s not my thing.

With “Remote,” Midnight Resistance has produced an album that could pass for new Depeche Mode to my ear. Nico’s vocal delivery is very reminiscent of Dave Gahan’s, the melodies themselves are pretty close, and the lyrics are typically bleak. Some of the songs have a slightly more industrial feel than Depeche Mode usually put out. 'Second Skin,' for example is danceable but has a mechanical sound. ‘House of Cards,’ is a slow and pensive song with industrial percussion and a little piano. It could almost pass for one of Trent Reznor’s (Nine Inch Nails) thoughtful, dark ballads. Most of the album though is up-tempo and dance oriented. ‘Edge of Time,’ ‘Wide Awake,’ ‘Phoenix,’ and particularly ‘Tear in Every Moment’ have a club music feel.

A definite point in this album’s favor is the high-quality production exhibited throughout the disc. Songs like the 7-˝ minute ‘Scars from Falling Down’ really jump out. A variety of effects and sounds rise and fall deftly at various points and the percussion pops, driving the song forward. ‘Remote’ is a beautiful instrumental piece that is simple but delicately crafted. Overall, this album doesn’t introduce us to anything new. However, if you like Synth Pop or dance oriented music then “Remote” is a well-executed, danceable take on the sound that you will probably enjoy.