White Hex – Gold Nights

The second album from Melbourne’s White Hex – accomplished purveyors of dark wave synth pop – is a seductive affair that doesn’t quite subscribe to neat categories.

Fans of Siousxie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, Dead Can Dance, New Order, Depeche Mode and various goth bands will detect some kinship here but ultimately, White Hex have a sound of their own.

Highlights include the album opener Only a Game, the austere yet melodic Paradise, and the synth-laden and somewhat menacing United Colours of KL. (PH)

***  ½ /5