If you’ve been pining to find a band that embodies the essence of the dark alternative sound, Zeitgeist Zero is the remedy you’ve been seeking. The Anglo-Irish group unites darkwave and industrial genres to create a listening experience that makes you want to move and puts you in a trance. Their new album, Meddling With The Forces, dropped this past Halloween and has been my formal introduction to the band. Let’s a take a closer peek at their latest musical endeavor, shall we?
A trio of talented musicians makes up the heart and soul of Zeitgeist Zero. They are lead vocalist Teresa Dead, Corin Zero who handles guitars and synths, and bassist and backing vocalist Ian Grimm. They have played at renowned goth festivals, such as Wave Gotik Treffen and Whitby Goth Weekend, and have worked with respected producers in the scene, including Steve Whitfield (The Cure) and John Fryer (Nine Inch Nails). Meddling With The Forces marks their fourth full-length studio recording and further solidifies their prominence within the dark alternative realm.
As I played the album, I was immediately drawn in by the assertive energy of the opening track. It delivers an enticing mix of electro and heavy rock beats, which are present throughout the entirety of the record. The album touches upon themes of the supernatural, horror, rejection and morbidity. Teresa Dead writes the lyrics and they’re spellbinding. Songs such as “Go to Hell,” “Psyche” and “The Unwanted One” express emotions of vulnerability and feeling like a pariah. “Night People” celebrates all creatures of the darkness and “Séance” beckons to spirits beyond the veil. Forbidden territory is traversed in “Satanic Sex Witch,” which captures primal elements of seduction and lust. Overall, macabre subject matter is brought to life in a captivating way.
“When those demons rise
And fly, fly through your mind
Don’t give up, you’re weird, you’re strange
You don’t ever need to change.”
-Excerpt from “Go to Hell”
In addition to the lyrics, Teresa’s voice in combination with the melodies and rhythms produced by her bandmates Corin and Ian establish a truly magical atmosphere that I enjoyed immersing myself in. As I listened to Teresa sing, I noticed something reminiscent of Siouxsie Sioux. They both possess vocals that have a deep, hypnotic style. I also recommend checking out the accompanying music videos for “Plastic Diamonds,” “Satanic Sex Witch” and “Toxic Twisted” on their YouTube channel. They’re like mini-films and show off the group’s imaginative storytelling abilities.
I feel that fans of Diva Destruction, Garbage and My Ruin will love what this new album has to offer. The last group is a female-fronted metal band and although that’s not a genre Zeitgeist Zero falls into, to me their sound shares a similar raw energy and edginess.
Meddling With The Forces is available for your listening pleasure on various streaming platforms. In addition, Zeitgeist Zero has released a limited edition CD that comes with a fold-out lyric sheet that also serves as a Ouija board! It’s available to purchase from their website’s store. I’m elated that I’ve been exposed to the band’s music and look forward to checking out more.
Where to Stalk
Zeitgeist Zero official website
Vamp Jenn's Corner 