Formed by Alex Akers and Tom Henderson in 2011, Forces have quickly established an impressive following, based on a reputation of bold live performances, and a touring schedule that has already included a gig at the Sydney Opera House.
At only four tracks, their debut self-titled EP is little more than a sampler, yet it still contains enough to suggest big things are to come from the Melbourne duo.
Channeling the 80s electronica of bands like Severed Heads, Forces move smoothly between straight-up club bangers and more airy techno soundscapes.
Lead single ‘Overland (In My Mind)’ is a clear standout, combining a thumping dance beat with flashy synth lines and catchy lyrics to produce a sharp and pulsating dancefloor-filler.
‘Specialize’ showcases Forces’ creative range, as the heavy bass takes a step back and gives the echoing percussion elements room to breathe.
Unfortunately, the remaining tracks highlight the duo’s limitations.
Forces often lacks the lyrical catchiness that artists like fellow Australians The Presets use to force their way into the mainstream, while simultaneously isn’t varied or subtle enough to attract the attention of dedicated fans of techno and dance music.
Akers and Henderson also seem afraid to let a simple ‘intstrumental’ track slip by, and after a promising start, closing number ‘Altered States’ is robbed of all momentum by the baffling inclusion of some nonsensical vocal samples.
Four tracks isn’t much to work with, however, and it remains to be seen whether Forces can, in the future craft a full-length album to match their undoubted talent.
