Almost eight years have passed since the release of "Nemesis". Shaun Frandsen has started recording new music again, but he has changed with time, he has aged and started reflecting on the music of his youth. He has been going through a nostalgic period and "Phoenix" is clearly a very personal album for him, almost an autobiographical journey: "I wrote it as an ode for those who have inspired me the most. I didn't hide my heart at all," he says.
This album begins rough, dark and chaotic, sometimes sad. On "Phoenix", GLIS have taken a bit of BOWIE and ENO and a classic-era 4AD sound to create the overall ambiance, then grabbed some inspiration from NINE INCH NAILS, UNDERWORLD and JOY DIVISION for the body of the music. It's the moment when female vocalist Lauren Krothe is introduced on the album that ushers in the transition from darkness to light, lo-fi darkwave with an ethereal hint of the COCTEAU TWINS. Then comes the anthemic and hooky "Crush" and the instant hit "Stars in the Sea", both of which help to end the journey on a hopeful positive outlook. The opening and closing groovey track "Apocalypse Parties" will remind you of the early WaxTrax electro/industrial sound with a touch of melodic modernity.
By writing it with his heart, Shaun Frandsen has definitely accomplished something personal and meaningful with this album, giving integrity and soul to "Phoenix", a chef d'oeuvre which falls down and rebuilds itself in a way that follows the fabled cycle. The track-list is set up in the same way. It's an ode to GLIS' past but also a nod to the future...
The deluxe carton box edition of the album holds an additional extended booklet and a bonus disc with exclusive bonus tracks...
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