Text & Images; Caren Spitler |
|
| Marching to the beat of their accomplished electronic drummer since 1990 -VNV Nation have become a mainstay in the EBM genre. VNV Nation is a powerfully dynamic musical vehicle aptly driven with Ronan Harris at the helm, and powered by Mark Jackson on drums. With a huge body of work to choose from they selected a set list that encompassed their journey from the mid-ninety’s to present. Entering with the ‘Intro’ from the new album dissolving right into the second track ‘Chrome" also from their recently released Matter + Form automatic intensity reverberates through the room. Electro-waves pulsate through the air while the bass tones of Mark Jackson’s drums vibrate within every living and inanimate thing in the room. As they merge in to the second song of the evening everyone is witness to what makes this band special and unique from other artist of their ilk. |
| Singer/songwriter Ronan Harris' singular vocal and stage presence is what sets VNV Nation apart from the myriad of EBM artist out there. Ronan’s vocal-tone, lyrical sense, and energetic stage persona captivates. He is tireless, to spite looks that might cause you to mistake him for a more sedentary person. Rich tones with slightly raw edges escape his lungs as he franticly crosses the stage in efforts to have his words reach into each member of the enthusiastic crowd. This intensely kinetic delivery draws you further into their world. Melodic croons of meaningful and poetic words laced over the intricate electronic sonnets woven beneath. All the while the beats and rhythms sending tremors through flesh and bone. By the middle of the set they segue into ‘Entropy’ and Harris’ temperate tones command attention body and soul. The words to the song carry the weight of its title forecasting a steady and inevitable decline of society. "In the face of grave defeat are heard cries for mercy," Ronan wails in reassuring dulcet tones. |
  |
The bands long set was scattered with songs from their previous albums as well as Matter + Form including the electronic dance floor standards "Standing" and "Darkangel" from Empires. Late in the set they mixed things up a bit and gave the fans a show to remember. During "Perpetual" they were joined on stage by androgynous rock-heartthrob Davey Havok of A.F.I. This isn’t the first time Havok has made a guest appearance with this band, obviously he can be counted among the many fans of VNV Nation. A little extra entertainment for your hard earned buck the opening act Soma’s dancers came on to the stage to add a bit more flare to the electronic grind. There is no doubt that the fans would have left happy dancers or not. VNV put on quite a show. If this suites your taste then it’s highly suggested you catch them live the next time they roll into town. Also pick up the new disc Matter + Form in stores now. Visit the bands site to find out more about what’s next for VNV Nation. |
| © 2005 TheSceneLA.com |
