Alder & Elius
In October 1997 out of the depths of Detroit came Alder and Elius: two musicians whose sound caught the ears of Manchester's Skam records. Skam signed them on and released 1999's "Parental Advisory" E.P.., 2000's "King of Pop"single,and 2001's "Parental Guidance"L.P.
It was with this release Alder and Elius truely showcased thier varied moods,styles and twisted sense of humor. It is a unique collection of rapid fire beats,filtered down tempo grooves and orchestrated melodies. From the manic ice cream men on acid-esque opener "Sickness in Gandahar"to the sultry bedroom eyes glare of "Darkest Hour", Parental Guidance takes the listener on a digital electro mood swing assult. At times lush and melodic,at others harsh and abstract.
But it is in thier live shows where Alder and Elius truely put thier insanity on display. In thier attempts to break electronica out of its lap top screen gazing tedium, they go to great lengths to put on a different and intersting show, from bizzare covers of everyone from Prince to Journey, sung with a karaoke-esque fervor, to their anti rave anthem "Rave to Your Grave", A E strive to keep the crowds entertained. And, how could the crowds not be, when, on their recent european tour the grand finale included a dancing Bionic Vagina. A visual aid used to accompany thier booty song of the same name. Try to remember the last time you've heard an audience chant "vagina"while two kids in mullet wigs chase, trap and prod one with large pink dildos...you can't? Then surely its time to indulge in the madness!