Belgian dance act Sylver (Wout van Dessel & Silvy de Bie) releases their fourth full album with Crossroads. I must say 'boo!' however, about opening with a cover of "Lay All Your Love On Me," (purchase/download) (not to mention the title's typo on the tray card). This song has been covered too many times. While it is decent, it desperately needs some background vocals to thicken up the choruses. I think my favorite version of this Abba hit is a remix of Erasure's take on it from the late 90s or so.
But on to better things. "Dance With Loneliness" (purchase/download) is the best track on the project with its energetic attitude-laden vocals, effects, and catchy melody. The message of "One Night Stand" (purchase/download) is exactly what you'd think, but interesting to hear from a female singer ("It was just a one night stand; don't call me anymore.") An upbeat tune with some hot thick synth.
Sylver has matured, and it's refreshing to see this growth in cuts like "Half as Much" and "Keep Your Hands." The former incorporates almost a gypsy-like fiddle through the intro and choruses, still maintaining its stance as a dance song. The latter is a driving dance number with some colorful midi-driven electric guitar work. Lyrically to the point (like "One Night Stand"), this one warns "keep your hands off my man"—I can see this being a big gay club favorite if a video is produced and catches on.
Finally, "The End," which you'd think would be some throwaway ballad in last position, is actually one of the tastiest cuts. This groovy mid-tempo song has an almost sneaky feel that will have you moving immediately. Its infectious trippy beat is laced a quirky sound and stabs of "ah" pad… almost an updated Expose' sound. Bravo, Sylver! Keep up the progression.
Released November 6, 2007 on Toucan Cove Records
