Battery Operated Orchestra are a Newhaven, East Sussex-based duo consisting of Brigitte Rose and Chris Black. Hailing from Tasmania, Australia, and Scotland, the pair met in London before migrating to the south coast. They’ve just released their fifth studio album. Packed full of thumping electronica, it’s called Compulsory Games.
By Graeme Smith
The album opens with Cut Off The Head. It’s a slow-burning start, with eerie textures and driving percussion. It sets the perfect tone for a collection released on Halloween, especially when descriptive, visceral lyrics come in, delivered devilishly by Brigitte’s vocals.
Title track Compulsory Games lightens things sonically without taking any of the depth out of the album’s lyrical story. A simmering first verse gives way a heavy, expansive chorus. Dead News is lively with a relentless melody and poetic lyrics. Service Economy keeps things upbeat, and has a fiery, defiant message. Killing Girl bounces along with a dance-inducing beat before Rainhead rounds off the first half of the album with a moodier moment. Its hypnotic ambience makes it a highlight.
Nightclub Mishap opens the second half of the album with a quirky composition of art electro. It’ll have you moving along while the characterful vocals will bring a smile to your face. Confession is a brooding, layered number. Unbecoming pairs delicate percussion with rich bass to great effect.
Lead single Always On is a late album highlight. A gentle opening quickly gives way to a compulsive beat and groovy electro pop arrangement. Its lyrics cuts through the anxiety of modern life, giving a cathartic outlet that invites you to the dancefloor.
The album then closes with the a return to the macabre in Lullaby and the expansive All That Rises Must Converge. The latter unfolds over seven and a half minutes of breath-taking atmosphere building. It’s a final highlight.
I feel like I’m a little late coming to the party with Battery Operated Orchestra but I’m glad that I’m finally here. Speaking of parties, if you’re looking to soundtrack your spooky festivities tonight, then Compulsory Games is perfect. You can check it out below.
