Unzucht - Deine Zeit läuft ab (2012) (7,5/10)

Apart of OSTFRONT, UNZUCHT are right now probably the most promoted newcomer of the Neue Deutsche Härte genre that desperately needs some new names and a little bit of innovation. The German band had already recorded a couple of previous EPs but this one got better promoted and put them on the map of the German Gothic and Alternative Rock scene. The four tracks plus two remixes are in fact an appetizer for the full length release “Todsünde 8” that just came out a few weeks ago.

What I like about the band is the good use of melodic vocals instead of the rather martial and stereotypical performances by bands such as MEGAHERZ or RAMMSTEIN in some tracks. Even though the band employs some quite heavy Industrial riffs, the catchy moments clearly dominate thanks to a couple of danceable Darkwave sounds and the addicting vocals. Especially the title track “Deine Zeit läuft ab” won’t soon get out of your mind once you’ve heard it.

The band also shows its musical talent as in “Fleisch” where the sound varies between distorted vocals over quite chaotic beats and more laid back passages with dreamy piano sounds. From a purely technical point of view, this track is definitely the highlight of the EP.

“Laio” then shows a more Gothic Rock orientated touch with some Darkwave elements and could also please to fans of HIM, MONO INC., ROTERFELD, THE 69 EYES or THE RASMUS. During the next festival summer, this track should easily become a new fan favourite.

Finally, the band hymn “Unzucht” is the heaviest track on here and reminds more of a classic Neue Deutsche Härte sound that could also come from EISBRECHER, EMIGRATE or OOMPH!. There are though still some melodic vocals in the pre-chorus that makes this song stand out even though it’s not as unique as the other three ones.

In the end, each track is quite catchy and mixes heavy guitars with danceable Darkwave beats and quite variable vocals that are sometimes too traditional but at other moments melodic and unique enough to give the band an own identity. I would though rather recommend purchasing the full length release that includes the tracks “Deine Zeit läuft ab” and also “Unzucht”. It’s a little bit too expensive to pay ten bucks for two good but not outstanding remixes and only two real non-album tracks even though these happen to be quite solid. Try to download the bonus tracks on here legally and then lose no time and head for the main release “Todsünde 8”.

(Online October 19, 2012)