Customer Reviews

Ethernaut

5 star:		(87)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

The Cruxshadows have been around for a little while, and have thus had time to perfect and hone their musical talent. This newest release shows off how they've evolved as a band, as well as how creative they can be. The Cruxshadows really have revolutionized the trip-hop genre by taking this musical style and molding it to be something entirely their own. They have taken an older, very characteristically 80's sound and added sumptuous layers that reek of eclecticism, but in a good way!

Omnipresent throughout Ethernaut are lushly rich textures complemented by outstanding lyrics and vocals. Aside from the characteristically "trip-hop"/EBM electronic and highly danceable beats, Ethernaut is sprinkled with the gorgeous sounds of violins and guitars. Though this combination seems like it would clash caustically, the Cruxshadows pull it all together quite well into a most delectable treat for the receptive ear.

A lot of the creative talent found in this group stems from Rogue (how very fitting a name for a group such as this), the lead singer/songwriter. His vocals tend to straddle the line between spoken word and singing, and his vocals are backed by the amazing, soaring vocals of both Rachel and Stacey. The lyrics on this album, as tend to be distinctive throughout most of the Cruxshadows works, are the Egyptian/Roman mythology themes. For example, this album covers the battle of Troy. Rogue does an outstanding job of mixing emotional, heart-wrenching lyrics along with history and mythology into a rather enticing and accessible array of danceable, artistic music.

Though this group might not appeal to every fan of trip-hop, or industrial/gothic music because of the fact that they are a slightly different, they do have a lot to offer to those willing to listen. Indeed, some might consider this style of music to be an acquired taste. However, the Cruxshadows do a wonderful job of making trip-hop/industrial/EBM/darkwave (as they really do overlap into all of these genres at various points) music more accessible. If you are new to the genre, or to the Cruxshadows, then this (and/or "Mystery of the Whisper") is a great place to start! This is a band that only continues to get better and better!

This album is so much more than just a CD. It is an exploration in history, mythology, philosophy, religion, and art, all combined to make a mind-blowing experience! The story of the Trojan War, with exciting twists and completely new interpretations and unique applications to religious and philosophical thought... Regardless of what you usually consider to be your favorite musical genre, this CD powerfully breaks through all boundaries to combine elements of electronic, dance, rock, classical, experiemental, folk, and many other kinds of music, to create a sound that is entirely unique and way better than anything else out there! The evolution of The Cruxshadows' sound is an incredible phenomena -- something to be treasured and studied.... I highly recommend this CD for any fans of intelligent and unique art. ...And it's great to dance to. :-)

This was the most gratifying purchase I have made this year!

I have been a fan of The CrüxShadows for a few years now, and I find some of the songs on this album will haunt me until I listen to them one more time.

There are only 12 tracks listed on the cover, but there are actually 15 musical scores and four blank tracks- not 100% sure of the reason for this, but i have heard mention of 'hidden' tracks [not very well hidden]. Awesome tracks on this album are 'Waiting to Leave', 'Flames', 'Cassandra' and 'Nothing Left But Me'.

Another track entitled 'German Esoterica' is only 1:30 long [with an additional 30 seconds of silence at the beginning] is also a favorite, but it is way too short; reminds me a lot of the game 'Startopia'

There are some samples on http://www.cruxshadows.com/ethernaut.html.

This album has been a miracle for me. It has been my inspiration, my motivation. The extremely profound and intelligent lyrics, and the other-wordly voice of singer/songwriter Rogue are gracefully brilliant. Equally as brilliant are the electric violin, electric guitar, as well as the synths and keyboards. It is clear that all who made this album truly put there souls into it. If I had to choose a favorite, it would be "Flame", the violin is extremely phenominal, and the beat makes me want to start dancing, no matter where I am! Buying this album was one of the best things that I've ever done for myself, I just wish that everyone could have the opportunity to feel this energy as well! Do yourself a favor and pick this one up, you won't regret it!

Ethernaut is by far the best album I've bought for years. Rachel's eerie violin/keyboard backed by the dramatic and unusually structured beats of Chris's synths gave me chills. Everything is topped off with Stacey's seductive and aggressive guitar and Rogue's beautiful, moving vocals. Each song on Ethernaut is so good, it's impossible for me to pick the best song. Although unquestionably dark, the Cruxshadows have continued with their genre blending, so Ethernaut doesn't fit into one catagory. And that's just what the music is like: flowing yet crunchy, ansty but romantic, beautiful yet sad. Rogue's presence through his vocals is so strong, it feels like he is singing directly to you. The sound feels much clearer and polished then their previous releases, the emotion a bit more direct. I can't think of anything wrong with this album. I say if you don't own it already, you have to buy it and support this incredible band. If you DO own it, then stop reading this and write your own review!

Looking forward to the next album-

Alyson

What can I say! The group just totally says it all with not just the words to thier songs but the music as well! One song will send my inner soul on a peaceful journey another will send it dancing into the Ether! Rouge's haunting voice and the bands mezmerizing harmony with each other makes this band one that I will follow for years to come! Keep up the good work and I cant wait to see you all again this year!

Words cannot fully express just how awesome this album is. It is definitely progress made by the Crüxshadows' limitless talent. Ethernaut is an exquisite, existential exploration. It seems that Rogue's soul has no boundaries, and neither do his lyrics, as well as his haunting voice, with which you will have no choice but to sing and/or dance. Rachel never ceases to impress with her violin, you almost want to join it in it's tears. Chris makes sure that there is plenty of awesome sound effects and beats to keep you wanting more. Stacey puts a lot more backround vocals into this album, which adds a whole new dimension to Ethernaut compared to other albums. I would recommend this album to anyone who loves music. I would also recommend seeing this band live, they are the best live show I have ever seen, and they are always sure to make time to interact with their fans afterwards. If you are buying your first Crüxshadows album, this is definitely a great one to start with!

This rant against Ethernaut by "music fan from Rochester" is completely off-base. Where is his (or her) support for any statement they have made? If you are confident of your opinions why hide behind the "music fan" label? Nowhere on this disc does it claim to be "Gothic". And what the hell IS Gothic? I am a left over "1st generation "Goth"(though we, nor the bands really referred to ourselves with that label) who grew up on Bauhaus, Sisters, Christian Death, Joy Division, etc. Are these bands the real Goth? Or is it Switchblade Symphony, Siouxsie, or even early Adam Ant? (who toured extensively with Siouxsie and the Banshees)
Ethernaut, to me, is like a breath of fresh air in a very stagnent music scene, Gothic and otherwise. There are very few American bands who can break through the "American Music Machine" and bring us something that isn't hip hop. I had only vaguely heard of CXS before I went to see them live 4 months ago, that show was a real eye opener, I bought Ethernaut at that show and if it was old vinyl (you do remember that stuff right?) I certainly would have worn the needle right through it. It still rarely leaves my CD player and when it does, another CXS disc goes in.

If you are sick of "Clear Channel" dumbed out prgramming and the vibrating trunks of hip hopsters. Give Cruxshadows a shot, listen to more than once. It speaks to my soul with Rogues lyrics, and Rachels violin is a touch that tears at my heart.

You won't regret it.

If you have come far enough to read the reviews of this disc, then BUY IT. It's a purchase you will not regret, music that will grab your soul, lyrics that will grab your heart. Rogue, Stacey, Chris and Rachel are the best things to happen to the music scene in years. Their last record, Wishfire was good, but with Ethernaut Rogue has really found his voice. When they tour in '04 BE THERE!

The latest cd from the cruxshadows is fantastic. I have been to several of their shows, and they are even better live. If you've never heard these guys this is agreat place to start. You won't be let down.