ZEISTENCROIX – Gemini

Gemini, the 5 track debut EP from Industrial Metal act Zeistencroix, is a fine effort within the traditional Industrial genre that leans heavily towards stalwart acts like Powerman 5000, Rammstein, Orgy, Static-X, and Marilyn Manson. Front-man and band founder Orlando Draven’s vocals are focused and crisp, with a direct, deliberate sensibility that leaves a forceful impact on the listener.

Most of the tracks fall into standard mid-tempo Industrial territory, however on “Dantes” we get some heavier, almost Thrash influences which provides us with a nice change of pace. The instrumentation and production style stays consistent across all 5 songs, giving the album a very finished, decisive quality to it.

The good qualities of Gemini aside, this is still a standard-fare release in a genre that has not seen any major growth in more than a decade. Industrial Metal is currently in a similar position to Pop Punk, in that it’s not old enough to be nostalgic, but too old to be current. The audiences are quickly aging out of the live concert scene and there are no lucrative opportunities for any bands other than the few leading, major, established acts. That being said, for what it is, Gemini is a well-done and genuine album. Fans of the above mentioned acts will enjoy this heartfelt release.