Ciam - Anonymous [CD]

June 17, 2008, 04:51 PM

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Ciam (pronounced See-am) are an incredibly interesting band. Certainly the first band that I’ve ever heard of that is made up of members from London, Tel Aviv and (latterly) Scandinavia. Now that has to be a logistical nightmare!

However, their album, Anonymous, released in November 2007, clearly proves otherwise. It has taken approximately 12 months to produce (mainly by the band with but with help from Paul Corkett and John Fryer) and is (as the band themselves denote on their myspace page) an interesting blend of alternative/emotronic/experimental sounds.

The first track, Here I Am, has the most beautiful introduction – long, slow and, combined with the echo of the lyrics, almost a little eerie. The harmony of the violins adds delicate layers to the arrangement which I loved, but I’ve got to tell you, it was just a tad depressing as an introduction to the whole album.

Life Goes On, track number three on the album, at first reminded me very much of an electronica era, with synthesised sounds and great drums in the middle. I felt that the vocals were a little weak in relation to the song, but I can imagine this being a fantastic track to hear live.

The Call is most definitely, without a shadow of a doubt, my favourite song on the album. Peppered with political messages this track is lyrically beautiful with great guitar riffs.

Looking for Love, towards the end of the album, is a beautiful track; soulful, melodic, plain and simple – all the ingredients that can make a hit record.

Overall, I thought Ciam’s album is really beautifully written, with captivating lyrics and great arrangements. On the down side, I did feel that there was a lot of similarity track to track, and did find the album a little too sombre for everyday listening. It would make a great break-up album though…

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