The Mystic Underground Stereosonic Recordings Performed at PIANOS on December 6th, 2004 Sponsored by THE ONION Written By Troy Tolley

My true introduction to The Mystic Underground was LIVE. I’ve always believed that if you like a band LIVE, you will probably love them recorded. I’m finding this to be true of The Mystic Underground.

Tears For Fears meets Clan of Xymox ( I trust some of you know to whom I refer) in this darkly and danceable synth duo comprised of Vladimir Valette and Benedetto Socci.

You know a band is destined to be hailed as pioneers when they force you to create a new genre description. The Mystic Underground, in my opinion (and to coin a phrase) can only be described as “Contemplative Dance Music.” There is Intelligent Dance Music, which is a different genre mainly consisting of sound designs and creatively-structured beats, but this is Contemplative Dance Music: cascading compositions of electronic synth power and beats of Benedetto (who would impress even the likes of Howard Jones!), while couching the heart, remorse, grief, introspection, light, and longing woven through the lyrics of Vladimir.

The Mystic Underground web site provides links to their current (VERY catchy) single, APRIL FOOL’S DAY, a couple of other songs from their debut, and a means to order that debut album, The Nameless and the Faceless. The Nameless and the Faceless is also available on iTunes!

The Mystic Underground will be playing next at THE SAINT in Asbury Park, NJ, January 8th @ 11pm. They are currently working on completing their untitled, second album and will be performing next in NYC at RARE for the New York Synth Pop Festival on January 14th, 2005. New York Cool will be watching and alerting you to any future dates!

On The Web | www.themysticunderground.com