PVT – CHURCH WITH NO MAGIC

PVT (previously Pivot) are an odd proposition: an Australian jam band signed to the UK electronic label Warp (home of Aphex Twin and Autechre). The three members are brothers Richard and Laurence Pike (guitar/vocals and drums respectively), and Dave Miller (lap top), and together they create a sound that combines the dynamics of rock with the alien textures of electronica. Hitherto an instrumental outfit, their latest album Church With No Magic highlights Pike’s sonorous vocal style. On album opener Community, layered voices and stark, fat synth arpeggios suggest a schoolboy choir sitting in with Tangerine Dream. Their love of chilly new-wave isn’t unusual of course, but where PVT diverge from the pack of 80s revivalists is their emphasis on art rather than pop. On title-track Church With No Magic Pike’s clipped, echoing vocals, riding a fuzzy riff and tribal drums, recall Suicide’s Alan Vega (and Jim Kerr, before Simple Minds joined the Breakfast Club). Fans of Berlin-period Bowie (and Scott Walker’s Tilt) will enjoy the dirge-like Crimson Swan and the epic Light Up Bright Fires. Essential listening.

****