AVANT GARDE - Basic
Songs: 12 Time:  49:53
Pop duo Avant Garde are back with their third release Basic.  Pelle Leandersson and Lars Walldén create wonderful synth-pop in the tradition of Erasure and OMD.  Quirky keyboards and simple, infectious melodies combined with excellently delivered vocals work together in highly catchy arrangements that easily hold up against their 1980s counterparts.  Basic is full of great dance hooks and strong melodic song writing making every track on this record an instant club hit.  Avant Garde definitely have the synth-pop formula down pat, and manage to take enough 80s influence without losing their own distinct sound.  This record is a must for any fan of Erasure, OMD, and early Depeche Mode. Basic is sure to gain Avant Garde the overseas recognition they deserve, hopefully future releases will be available for domestic purchase as records this good should be easier to find in the U.S.
 
reviewed by Ben Schingel
 
DION FORTUNE       
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Avant Garde is:
Per Ola Leandersson / Lars Wallden