The Contrast

Another pretty good review for God of Malfunction

It’s hard to fault a band like the Contrast, even if they blatantly retread an oft-used retro rock formula that bears witness to ‘60s and ‘70s influences and betray an unrelenting enthusiasm that finds practically every tune elevated larger than life. Now signed to Little Steven’s Wicked Cool Records, this cheery British band has been given full license to let their ambitions run wild, affirmed by the fact that the person who procured the producer’s chair is none other than Little Steven himself.

As a result, six albums on, the Contrast offer little contrast from their previous MO. Effusive indulgence turns songs like “Underground Ghosts,” “Take Me Apart” and “Gone Forever” into celebratory soirees chock full of rousing melodies, jangly guitars and gushing sentiment. The lavish production slate is further fleshed out by an arsenal of cellos, mellotrons, theramins, treated keyboards and an array of instruments well suited to their epoch ambitions. Even the occasional odd encounter – “I Am An Alien” comes specifically to mind – manages to retain an effervescent sheen. Which makes God of Malfunction a benevolent presence indeed.
–Lee Zimmerman

[From AMPLIFIER: THE CONTRAST]