Sean Beavan (known for producing the likes of Marilyn Manson and Nine Inch Nails) and his wife Juliette began 8MM back in 2004.
In a somewhat unusual turn of events, fans themselves became intimately involved in the project by donating to the band in order to make this record possible and accordingly they have been holding out for the fruits of their latest labours.
The struggle to meet the financial needs for carrying out the recording of the album was met by overwhelming support of their fans. It’s no surprise there has been a large amount of anticipation associated with the lead up to the release of the Between the Devil and Two Black Hearts.
Beavan’s vocals make a welcome appearance in the opening track, also titled “Between the Devil and Two Black Hearts.” The opening hints at a country twang that reappears later in the album on the track “The Weight of You”.
The gritty power of his vocals offers a pleasant contrast to Juliette’s voice, that makes its response as the song progresses. Their different energies and qualities feed off each other and reining one another in, which is mirrored pretty nicely in the move between acoustic and electric guitar.
“Around the Sun” embodies quite a different vibe, as the haunting qualities of Juliette’s voice are played against the almost unnerving other worldliness of the accompanying music. It’s a strong melodic line and you’re immediately compelled to sing along, even before you know the words.
Any music capable of accomplishing that kind of response is worth checking out.
