VNV Nation — Genesis.1

First off all, I think that reviewers should be honest when they are biased. So I will have to cough up the confession that I think VNV Nation is the best thing since the invention of sliced bread. Secondly, if you're not already familiar with VNV Nation or enjoy their work, please move along. Nothing to see here. This single is only interesting for fans and I would never recommend it as a first buy. Check their stunning full lengths: 'Empires', 'Praise the Fallen' and 'Advance and Follow'.

As you might have guessed by the clever use of the number "1" in the title 'Genesis.1', this single is part one of two singles. Both were released as an appetizer for their upcoming album 'Futureperfect'. The other single carries the rather original name 'Genesis.2'. Like most of VNV Nation's singles, we are offered the title track in various incarnations (a single version and two remixes) and one previously unreleased bonus track. In this case the uninspiring mellow track 'Weltfunk'.

Now given VNV's great reputation and the fact that I simply adore them, you might think I would gobble this one up without question and gallop through the streets proclaiming its brilliance. Unfortunately, I can not do that. Somehow the main track 'Genesis' doesn't really connect with me as much as their previous work. I can't quite put my finger on it but something is simply lacking.

While the lyrics, as always, are absolutely stunning and thought provoking, musically I miss that highly emotional edge. 'Genesis' lacks the passion of songs such as 'Procession', 'Solitary', 'Dark Angel' or the sad emotions in songs like 'Rubicon' and 'Joy'. I expect VNV Nation to inspire me, to make me cry, to enrage me, to fill me with courage! Unfortunately 'Genesis' is severely lacking in that department.

Having said that however, 'Genesis.1' has grown on me and, just as with older VNV Nation, I can find myself listening to it over and over again. Also, know that I am extremely critical in my judgement over anything that VNV Nation does, I simply expect the best of them and no less. If any other band had written a song like 'Genesis' I would be raving about it. I am also still optimistic about the next album. Especially because they have been touring recently, playing more songs from their upcoming album and from what I have heard those songs are far superior to 'Genesis' and they remind people a lot of their previous absolute masterpiece 'Empires'.