When I read the name of this act I thought I might be in for some bloodthirsty metal-heads. It all sounded a little hardcore. What I actually received was a relatively unknown duo (DJ Rocca & Jukka Reverberi) hailing from Italy who are slowly making an impact on the mainstream scene. A three track EP entitled "Chorne More" gives a taster of their musical output.

‘Jurij’ represents a feeling of outer space during the introductory stages of the song building in more layered digital effects, before an arrangement of exotic drums builds the tempo. Then we get a somewhat cheerful keys section as the vocals enter. Critically this duo does not try and throw everything they own at this production. They are able to switch in and out of techniques to ensure each section is heard and holds some individual merit within the piece as a whole. The music tends to settle into a rhythmical pattern towards the mid-section and remains here with little input until the final stages. Pleasant to hear use of woodwind instruments at the end, a differing touch to the norm. This track extends well over the six minute mark and keeps enough pace to allow this to not be a struggle to reach.

‘Yarda’ provides the next input from Crimea X. This follows a similar path to the previous song, but focuses more heavily on melodies from keyboard style instruments, complimented by what appears to be an acoustic drum kit, over the electronic alternative. This gives the overall sound a much rawer and in many respects live, atmospheric nature. As the track moves into the latter sections, there is a unison of all contributing aspects, which provides a deep and bassy undertone whilst sharper melodies attack the foreground. In my opinion, the use of "real" drums takes this track from forgettable to memorable.


‘Liubov’ is the final offering from the powerhouse duo. With a short, muted instrumental beginning to the track, it builds into a more substantial piece with the return of the vocal sections. The vocals do add a certain human quality to these songs which otherwise only stand to represent digital arrangements. A foot-tapping nature is welcomed in the second half of the tune where rhythmic sections become more apparent. The duo do explore many avenues within ‘Liubov’ and this shows their diversity and experimental approach to making music.


Crimea X have done well to create these three tracks, all of which have different characteristics which identify them as a force within this genre. As an individual who often finds this style of music difficult to find enjoyment in, I have to say Crimea X do break the mould.