The Presets

Dance music and concept albums aren't two themes you'd normally associate together. Unless you're The Presets that is. Having already released the sprawling 'Apocalypso' four years ago as a celebration of the end of time, 'Pacifica' takes that same concept one step further. Heralding a new world beyond the apocalypse where paradise and tranquillity loom, 'Pacifica' acts as The Presets' adventurous soundtrack. Or Desert Island discs for the post-rave brigade.

It's been a busy couple of years in between records for the Sydney based duo of Kim Moyes and Julian Hamilton. Since the release of 'Apocalypso', both have become fathers and there's no doubt that such pressing matters as parenthood helped augment the more mature sound of this record. Certainly when compared to 2004's 'Blow Up' EP, released at the height of the media accentuated new rave fad, it almost feels like a different band. Whereas then it was all about sleep depriving tales of hedonism, now they're more likely to be found trading atmospherics like an older, wiser Friendly Fires. Or for those old enough to remember, early nineties indie-dance crossover specialists The Beloved.

Comprising ten tracks in total, 'Pacifica' isn't aimed at the all hours clubbing crowd its predecessors were indebted to. Instead, its textured beats and occasional dips into ambient waters make a refreshing change from the relentless pounding beats that many of The Presets' contemporaries continue to peddle out. Opener 'Youth In Trouble', a six-minute long epic that recalls Hot Chip around the time of 'The Warning', offers a deceptive introduction to what's really at the heart of 'Pacifica'.

Continue reading: The Presets - Pacifica Album Review