If you want to experience the state of the art in techno-industrial music, look no further than the Metropolis Records stable, home to such avatars of synthesized heaviosity as
Wumpscut,
Funker Vogt,
Frontline Assembly, and
Crocodile Shop. This fine sampler gives a good idea of what to expect from the label in general: well-produced, sometimes surprisingly complex and funky variations on the dark worldview and oppressive beats that typify the neo-gothic industrial scene. If you prefer the funkier stuff, take note of
Rhea's Obsession, whose "Between Earth and Sky (Maximum Tabla Mix)" is one of the most attractive items on this album, or the always great
Frontline Assembly, who checks in with the rhythmically intricate and texturally deep "Retribution." If oppressiveness is more your style, check out the charmingly fascist
Crocodile Shop ("Without order there is no joy/don't be so lazy") or the ponderously Teutonic
Decoded Feedback, whose "Endless Light" sounds like a cross between
Wagner and
Front 242. Recommended.