Album Review: Gideon Bensen - Cold Cold Heart

5 February 2016 | 12:40 pm | Cameron Cooper

"Bensen manages to conjure both Bowie and Nine Inch Nails, while also having one foot firmly in the '80s-inspired, synthwave movement."

Given the indie rocking nature of The Preatures, the synthpop, vapourwave vibes of guitarist Gideon Bensen's solo outing might come as a bit of a shock.

A mellow, neon-light soaked, cyberpunk shock. Coming in at just under 14 minutes, Cold Cold Heart is little more than a taste of Bensen's electronic side, but showcases an impressive range. Bensen manages to conjure both Bowie and Nine Inch Nails, while also having one foot firmly in the '80s-inspired, synthwave movement currently kicking off. There's definitely enough hooks for chart fodder, but repeat listens reveal something a little more ponderous going on as well.