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    The Phantom Tollbooth 1999/Paradox
    Paradox — New Devotion cover

    Paradox

    New Devotion

    (2000)

    Reviewed by Sam Hagedorn

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    Label Seeing Ear RecordsThe Phantom Tollbooth1999
    darkwavenew wavesynth pop

    The first thing that grabs you with New Devotion is the cover (a gothic Shania Twain?), just by looking at it you get the feeling that you're in for a musical treat. And the disc itself doesn't disappoint.

    You pop it in the player and instantly you're listening to an impressive collection of Gothic/Euro/Retro Dance songs in the vein of Depeche Mode and The Cure. Popular in the underground scene in native Perth, Australia, Paradox's message is anything but vague. Loving Jesus, submission to God which releases the chains that bind us to sin, and God's commission to carry on his fight are some of the messages listeners hear. The final song on the disc "In My Dream" weaves us through the Apocalyptic events of Jesus' second coming.

    Ralph Dix and Lissa (no last name given) share both the lead and background vocals adding an intriguing touch to this disc and the resulting process flows easily with captivating results. The third member of this trio is Steve who adds the programming, guitars and keys to this project.

    Though the disc comes from the underground scene Down Under, it should not be pushed to the back of your listening choices. If you're into any of the genres mentioned this is one disc you will want in your collection.

    4 tocks

    Other coverage for this album

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