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The Alternative IAMX Major Records Rocks Like: Sneaker Pimps, Radiohead out of

IAMX is the electrifying solo project of Chris Corner, the former front man and creator of the Sneaker Pimps.

Listening to IAMX's second album, The Alternative, is like stumbling upon a strange and otherworldly wonderland of new musical sounds. The album is primarily composed of '80s-inspired electronic music. Corner mixes the synthetic tones with haunting and raw vocals to create a unique soundscape.

Corner creates a dramatic and mysterious stage persona for IAMX. The singer's heroin-chic frame is usually adorned in skin-tight black leather and accented with bright yellow accessories, gloves and Victorian-style hats. The album's subject matter is provocative, usually dealing with drug use, sex, depression and feelings of alienation.

Piercing piano chords open the album's lead-off track, "President." Corner's eerie falsetto pulls the listener in, intoxicating them with its darkly beautiful sound. Corner generates some unusual music from a warped-sounding horn and string section. An ever-constant, deep and pulsating beat can be heard throughout the song. This beat blends with the instruments and haunting vocals to create the atmosphere of some strange, gothic carnival.

The title track is a fast-paced, electro dance number. Corner's strong voice echoes throughout the piece, making the song something more than just an experiment in computerized music. The chorus is appealing and very rock inspired. Occasionally, Corner uses the higher parts of his vocal register, making the song sound like a dark and gritty modern opera.

"Nightlife" seems to draw heavily on the album's '80s electronica elements. Digital percussion accompanies Corner's intense vocals. Later on, a fantastic electronic breakdown occurs. Electronic music can sometimes sound very irritating and dated. Corner's musicianship shines through, however, as he's able to create beautiful and interesting sounds with his computerized instruments.

"Lulled By Numbers" is a very reflective and chilling song. Strange noises blend with chiming bells to produce a raw and abrasive sound. These notes mix in with Corner's soaring voice to create a unique and brilliant moment. Sue Denim, a member of the electro-pop band Robots in Disguise, provides backup vocals for the number. The harmonies of Corner and Denim sound otherworldly and are the perfect backdrop for this bleak song of romance.

The mystical "Song of Imaginary Beings" begins with bagpipe-like droning. A driving beat mixes with Corner's voice as he sings about a frigid woman who creates her own lover. The entrancing chorus repeats a list of devilish mythical beings and their demands on the woman. A hypnotic whispering and a high wailing provide an eerie backup sound. All of the musical elements blend together to create a stunning song.

The Alternative moves away from its electronic sound with the final number, "This Will Make You Love Again." The mostly piano-driven song tells a heart-wrenching tale of romance and depression. Corner delivers a dazzling performance as he sings this desolate and beautiful song.

Overall, The Alternative is a rare and unique musical outing. Corner creates a world of striking new sounds. Each song is a gem, filled with beauty and passion. The songs are intricate and interesting, making it hard to listen to the album just once.

Surely, IAMX's The Alternative is destined to become a classic.

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