Wassermann – “Die Schallplatte” (Singles Going Steady)

Pryor Stroud: Pounding, repetitive, and replete with an unwavering sonic concentration, “Die Schallplatte” takes the most basic elements of Kraftwerkian synthpop and integrates them into a strobe light-mimicking exercise in dancefloor hypnosis. The six-note-then-seven-note synth riff that anchors the track is particularly well-executed; its caustic, fizzling texture brings to mind a bio-mechanical attempt to animate a dying organism – you or, perhaps, something more sinister – through a dangerously high electrical charge. [7/10]

Emmanuel Elone: “Die Schallplatte” is a decent electronic song. The beat has a dancehall groove to it, but it seldom deviates, making it fairly one-dimensional. Wassermann’s computerized vocals are interesting, reminiscent of Daft Punk to a certain extent, and add a nice extra layer of texture to the song as a whole. While “Die Schallplatte” had some decent moments, it was also unmemorable to a certain extent, though (I must admit) its groove will be stuck in your head long after the song’s ended. [5/10]

Chad Miller: Really impressive electronic music. The instrumentation functions together really well, and there’s always a really successful driving rhythm created by the different pieces. The processed vocals sound right at home among the instruments too. [8/10]

Chris Ingalls: This is basically the most Teutonic thing I’ve heard in years. A martial drum beat and emotionless, German singing. Nice synths, it all sounds very professional — and cold. Perhaps that’s the point. Not terrible, but not something I can really listen to without picturing Mike Myers break into his “Sprockets” routine. [6/10]

SCORE: 6.50