Skyshaper (Limited Edition)

Once one reads the band's own bio and discovers that much of Covenant's music has been influenced by the film Blade Runner, it's difficult to avoid looking deep into the Swedish trio's lyrics to find references to the philosophical examination of man versus machine or God versus man. On their sixth record, Skyshaper, it's in there somewhere, especially with lyrics such as "We are the men/Silent and cold." The now-veteran band also continues its club-friendly EBM, which plays like new romantic artists Human League or Gary Numan at twice the tempo. Although there isn't anything as memorable and catchy as "Dead Stars" or "We Want Revolution," the vocals from Eskil Simonsson are immediately recognizable, while the seven-minute opener, "Ritual Noise," is strong enough to pull your body right into its dark synth and beats. Other highlights include the surprisingly cute "Happy Man" and "The Men," despite its minimal lyrics. "Sweet & Salty" is a misfire with its spoken lyrics and uncharacteristic title. They exit with the fitting "The World Is Growing Loud," where the lyrics "It's time for us to fade to grey/I wish they'll let us stay" again remind you of their debt to the new romantics. [This edition features three bonus tracks on an additional disc.]