Punch Drunk Monkey - Number 1 Killer (song review) |self-released, Room 101, 2011| 
Punch Drunk Monkey is a musical duo based in Brisbane, Australia. The band was established in 2001 by founding artist Candellan and Erszabetta. The song "Number 1 Killer" is the opening track to their new album Room 101 that was released in 2011.
An atmospheric intro based on an electronica stylized prelude may at first suggest it to be an ambient song, but make no mistake, this track soon evolves with a viral rhythm which continues throughout the end of this track. The mood of "Number 1 Killer" can be considered dark in some spots, however the entire track is rather easy listening and danceable due to its pulsating, syncopated vibes. A careful listener may catch the distorted guitar riffs that interlace the beats and make this composition sound a bit feisty as well. Stretched, modulated and repetitive synth parts diversify the solid, yet uncomplicated structures quite interestingly.
When it comes to the vocal tracks, the male segments are slightly digitized and repetitive. However, the song structures seem to fill in extremely well when combined with the radio-esque female reports. Also, this is a good technique to utilize so that the vocal tracks do not stand out in an overemphasized manner beyond the instrumental arrangements, but appear to be mixed somewhere in-between the predominant track levels, making this song less organic in contrast to i.e. traditional rock songs.
Candellan and Erszabetta admit that their artistic inspirations come from musical genres popularized in the 80's and 90's. Their influences include artists such as Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Depeche Mode, Fields of the Nephilim and Inkubus Sukkubus. In this track, a listener may find connections and similarities primarily to the music of Depeche Mode or Orgy, although Punch Drunk Monkey creates their own sound and individual identity.
"Number 1 Killer" becomes immediately memorable from the first listening due to its marching rhythm as well as contrasting, modulated synth effects. This track has possible hit potential for listeners and the dance floor if marketed through proper channels and targeted demographics.
(Katarzyna 'NINa' Górnisiewicz, Fabryka Magazine, August 13th, 2012. Proofreading: Scott M. Owens)
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