‘Savage Times’ is the latest work from MARQ Electronica, with his ‘80s soul-edged voice laden with pop fest and anthemic dance.
Written in the aftermath of the artist having lost his father, he wanted to capture this moment in time, along with his own personal self-esteem issues and the state of UK Politics. It’s a lot to capture and can often feel quite dark – both musically and lyrically – but there’s a certain dichotomy that you can’t help but love.
Originally from Middlesbrough but based in Newcastle for most of his life, MARQ Electronica’s synth-heavy music has seen him perform with synth-rock band Sapien Trace and collaborate with The Last of The Fallen Angels. Establishing a dedicated following, his latest release looks to take him on another level entirely.
Produced by the legendary Harbourmaster, this album is a love letter to ‘80s electronica, with tracks like ‘Feeding the Fire’ and ‘Lifetime’ exemplifying the pop-dance credentials of ‘Savage Times’, laced throughout with funky synth bass and disco strings over a dance beat.
The track ‘You Do What You Want’ and its piano-led introduction struck me immediately as being an exceptionally well-produced sounding piece of music, something that could just as easily have been released in 1983 (remastered for modern speakers, of course). Vocally, whether in agreement or not, I felt strongly that there was a distinct hint of Marc Almond as well as that of Martin Fry of ABC in delivery.
At the same time, as energetic and motivating as this track is, lyrically it focuses on the UK Government’s recent actions regarding lockdown parties, the rises in the cost of living and the juxtaposition of those we lost and those who remain. This theme is repeated several times throughout the album, most notably on the track ‘Next to Nothing’, something which imprints on you with each listen and becomes stronger.
Imagery and iconography are a huge part of what the artist is about, so the presentation of their artwork and promotional posters catches your attention as much as anything else. It’s a distinctive piece which is no doubt loosely inspired by an Andy Warhol screen-print style and reminds me of Queen’s ‘Hot Space’ album of ‘82.
With appearances scheduled at several events this summer, including Northumberland Pride, no doubt you’ll be able to enjoy performances from MARQ Electronica very soon.
‘Savage Times’ will be streaming online from Friday 1st July and the CD will be available from Saturday 2nd July in HMV in Newcastle.
