Album Review: The Presets - Pacifica

Pacifica is the latest album from this iconic Sydney duo, and it is full to the brim with nostalgic, industrial and pretty filthy beats. In a manner similar to Plan B's Ill Manners, Pacifica parades current themes of a troubled society such as those in Youth In Trouble and Surrender. Julian Hamilton may not be praised for his melodic and ethereal vocals throughout, but the effect of his harsh tones ensure that this album is sinister, urban and downright topical in its day and time.

The classical backgrounds of both Hamilton and Kim Moyes is one of the reasons why this album is not just a face-melter but a deep, cultivated collection of synth blows, emotional lyrics and hard-hitting beats. Certain influences, whether intended or not, are noticeable all over including a Ramones hint during Adults Only. The creative voice of The Presets, however, remains the defining identity of this production as it is unlike anything else currently being released.

Similar to My People on Apocalypse, anthems will emerge from Pacifica in the form of Ghosts and It's Cool. Due to headline the Parklife festival in a few weeks, Moyes and Hamilton will have plenty to showcase and the only probable response will be a crowd with a decent degree of melted faces and autonomous limbs flailing about in the sky. After a forced hiatus of sorts so early in their career, The Presets re-introduce themselves to old friends with a firm handshake and a hug of, let's say it, awesomeness. All hail the originality of these guys; even if you are not a dance or electronic fan, this album again forces you to respect the recipe of inventiveness from which this is made.