Let’s face it, most of the mainstream is looking for trendy, shiny music. A grim reality, the saddest part is many of the new artists promoted by major record labels seem generic and lifeless. Kind of deflating to true music lovers who appreciate the art behind songwriting and songs that are not genetically altered by auto-tuning and modern recording techniques, there is still hope to be had. In fact, there are some newer artists who are defying any of what is currently ‘in’, and Twin Temple is one such act.
A husband-and-wife duo consisting Alexandra James and Zachary James, Twin Temple’s sound is actually firmly rooted within the ‘50s and early ‘60s golden era of Rock-n-Roll. Compelling to hear – considering some of the most beautiful records ever recorded during this period from artists like The Ronettes, The Crystals, and The Platters, just to name a few – upon first listen to Twin Temples, you will immediately be transported back in time. Clearly influenced by R&B, Soul, and early Rock-n-Roll from the aforementioned artists, but also Buddy Holly, The Shirelles and so many more, the twist is Twin Temple’s occult theme.
Allowing you to process that for a moment, yes, Twin Temples are a modern Duo-Wop group that could fit right in back in 1962, but create songs centered around occult concepts. A bit unique, naturally, some take offense to this, but is it really any different than true Black Metal? The answer is probably not. Anyway, Twin Temple has been around since 2017, put out Twin Temple (Bring You Their Signature Sound…. Satanic Doo-Wop) in 2019, followed by a live record in 2020. Gaining attention with Metal fans, the group has toured with the likes of Danzig, Behemoth, among others. Preparing to go out on tour in 2024 with the more Industrial Rock VOWWS in 2024, just before Samhain (aka Halloween), they put out their brand-new studio album God Is Dead.
Released on Friday, October 13th through the duo’s own label Pentagrammaton Records, God Is Dead consists of 8 songs that are bound to bedazzle you. First introduced with the rather amusingly titled 2022 single “Let’s Have A Satanic Orgy,” it is impossible to think of any better way to grab attention. A song that is rather catchy, and possessing a retro Rock mixed with Flamenco style, it will make you smile, want to dance, or probably both. From here they put out the romantic sounding “Burn Your Bible,” followed by the also impossible to ignore “Be A Slut.”
Three songs that stick with you, it is also important to note that Twin Temple creates a truly authentic sound with their music by recording everything in mono; just like back in the day. So, with this knowledge, you should know you are not getting some pseudo retro sound, but something genuine. Doing a fine job with it, other songs that will mesmerize you along this listening journey would have to be “(Fallin’ For A) Fallen Angel,” complete with beautiful instruments and haunting, layered vocals, The Shirelles’ vibed “Two Sinners,” and rougher, yet still elegant “Spellbreaker.”
All in all, if you are a fan of classic Rock-n-Roll, then you are going to love Twin Temple. A very talented team, Alexandra sounds like a modern-day Ronnie Spector while Zachary matches her with delightful instrumentation and backing vocals. Moreover, this couple is doing everything themselves – writing, recording, and producing. That within itself deserves praise, because they do it with such authenticity. And as far as the occult thing goes, well, you are either going to be insulted by it, or you are going to understand the symbolism. Either way, Twin Temple is really a delightful listen, and that is why Cryptic Rock gives God is Dead 4 out of 5 stars.
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