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IAMX |
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By Marissa Bruce |
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IAMX released its first album, Kiss and Swallow, in 2004 and received lots of gratification from Sneaker Pimps fans, which were lying in the wake of the band’s apparent breakup. Corner reports, though, “Sneaker Pimps is not dead; it’s just dormant.” As producer, songwriter and vocalist, Corner carries the burden of keeping the sound pure enough to be meaningful to SP fans, but broad enough to intrigue a more varied audience as well. “I tried to keep the electronic nature of Kiss and Swallow and expand it with the open heaviness of a drum kit,” Corner explains regarding IAMX’s new album, The Alternative. “I stay pretty basic with the mixing, using Logic Pro and Reason - I don’t have the budget or time to be too geeky,” he laughs. “I just use what’s there and make it work. I know I’ll get something out of it.” When it comes to focusing on writing, Corner compares it to a child with building blocks. “I know I have something to say on a subconscious level,” he explains, “so I create the sounds and then develop the more specific language (the words) on top of it.” As for inspiration? “Sex, music, life, experiences,” he grins. But don’t let this rock star fool you - he’s acutely aware of his place in the world and remains grounded. He recalls touring in the past and not enjoying it as much, because there was so much ego and angst involved. “I grew up rather quickly in the last few years,” he confides, “and when you have such a steep learning curve, you really can gather your experiences and learn from them.” In addition to touring and recording, Corner’s love of film has inspired him to undertake a DVD project. Naturally, it will have a strong artistic vibe with videos, live images and interviews. So why haven’t you heard of IAMX? It’s certainly not for lack of talent. The band has elected to remain unsigned at present, keeping labels at bay. Corner says this musical rebirth has given IAMX, “a creative freedom that has resulted in an intense connection with the fans.” In fact, some of the tour venues were actually planned by the fans. Canada, for example, was not an intended stop - but after a few emails from salivating fans, there they were. “It’s refreshing to have the flexibility to go where we are wanted,” Corner notes, “instead of being compromised by a label.” Wisely, the band has utilized the Internet to keep that connection alive. They’ve engaged in public chats with fans and even auditioned bands to join them on this tour, via MySpace submissions. In Dallas, our own Hourly Radio landed the coveted opening gig. Just in case you’re wondering what the hell IAMX sounds like, an example is “Negative Sex,” which features pulverizing, hypnotic beats that would turn an altar boy into a porn star in seconds. In other words, this is not your momma’s disco - it’s beyond cookie cutter techno. Buy the new CD. Breathe it. You will not regret it. |
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FEATURES |
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