In 2003 dance music producer Alodis teamed with vocalist Katy D to form Holland-based eurodance act Kandystand. Watch Out Here I Come is their debut release, and an impressive one at that.
It's refreshing to hear a group cover something that's not been done to death. Opener "Sanctuary" (The Cult) is a good example and features effects-heavy vocals on the robotic tip and some kickin' programming. "Alone" (Heart)--although it could use some vocal overdubs to thicken up the chorus--is a fun eurodance romp and a skillful interpretation. The intro of "Electric Dreams" sucks you right in and keeps the energy pumping, however I prefer Outta Control's version of this Giorgio Moroder & Phil Oakey song.
Not a Le Click cover, "Call Me"'s arrangement works like some Lasgo songs where a strong catchy instrumental section plus some minimal lyrics come together as a chorus. "Everybody" undulates with a galloping bassline and some hot thick synth, a late 90s keyboard melody, and some solid vocal effects. Probably the most compelling track on the disk, "Empty Rooms," grooving at a slower tempo without being a ballad, sizzles with fresh programming and a top notch almost 80s-kissed melody.
Upbeat "Black Pearl" is a catchy shout out to all those girls who haven't been in the limelight but have something to offer. The music and melody of "On Another Planet" is reminiscent of Alice Deejay while also featuring an additional male vocal that I assume (due to the minimal credits) is Alodis. Katy has a pleasant effective vocal (for instance in fun tune "Disco Queen," even through the effects, sounding like Madonna with a dash of Lene from Aqua), making me long for a cleaner sound on more songs on any forthcoming projects. It's purchasable via iTunes, cdbaby.com, or kandystand.com.