Monstrum Sepsis- Movement

Artist: Monstrum Sepsis
CD Title: Movement
Label: WTII Records
Reviewer: Matthew Johnson
Date: 5-22-05

Rob Wentz, the man behind Monstrum Sepsis, is one of the EBM scene’s most interesting artists simply because his music reveals no particular enthusiasm for any sort of club play. His work, instrumental but for the occasional well-placed sample, is made up of the basic stuff of EBM – drum machines, string pads, and layered synthesizers – but defies convention. You won’t find any quotes from Clive Barker films, and though his latest release is plenty rhythmic, it doesn’t seem to ingratiate itself particularly to the futurepop club kids on one side nor the power noise fans on the other. Danceable though it might be, it seems intended more for listening than for club play. “Less Is More” layers emotive keyboards over old-school breakbeats, while “The Total Cost” and “Corona Dissolve” explore more ambient cinematic territory. “Wasted and Shaven” offers a nod to rhythmic noise aficionados before dissolving seamlessly into the metallic drum ‘n’ bass onslaught of “Green River,” while “Moving Backwards to Proceed” and “A Place In Time” take a less harsh, almost pleasant tack into the waters of experimental techno acts like Autechre and Aphex Twin. Stylistically diverse, it’s all held together by a willingness to take risks in a genre in danger of becoming stagnant. For a look at the cutting edge of modern electro – not to mention a welcome diversion from Suicide Commando clones – give Monstrum Sepsis a listen.

For more information, visit Wentz online at www.monstrumsepsis.com