With “The Inevitable Relapse,” their fifth album overall and third for Dependent, FIX8:SED8 (a paraphrase of the psychiatric terms “fixated/sedated”) take the final step from insider tip to established name within the electro-industrial scene.
“The Inevitable Relapse” is an almost prophetic title for an album that was largely created under the influence of a global pandemic. Their musical relapse consists mainly of a continuation of the course that Fix8:Sed8 set with their successful predecessors “Foren6” (2017) and “Warning Signs” (2019). Influenced by Canadian cult bands such as SKINNY PUPPY and FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY, among others, mastermind Martin Sane has developed his own distinctive style that oscillates between dark electronic harshness and gripping catchiness.
Similar to their colleagues from MENTALLO & THE FIXER and HAUJOBB, FIX8:SED8 have increasingly distanced themselves from their great role models and created their own soundscapes. Especially in terms of songwriting and production, which is almost as important in the electro field, the project from the Frankfurt area has audibly improved with each album, which is once again true for “The Inevitable Relapse.” This is just as evident in fresh bangers like “Prognosis” and “Within Cells Interlinked” as it is in complex, dark tracks like “Human Harvest.” On top of that, PYRROLINE bandleader Arnte had his skilled hands in the production and mix.
With “The Inevitable Relapse,” electro-industrial up-and-comers FIX8:SED8 really let it rip!
