Simply Amazing
Justin Mcmahon | 01/23/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The VSS were an amazing collective of gents from the San Diego scene who existed from 1995 to 1997. In their short lifespan they released three seven-inches and the album you have come about. "Nervous Circuits" set new ground for music in the end of the 20th Century and updated what individuals with instruments are able to accomplish. Sonny Kay's vocals stand out as reason enough to listen to The VSS; combined with the musicianship of the other three members, it becomes nothing short of amazing. Gone are preconceptions of what one is able to do with a keyboard, Joshua Hughes (now in Pleasure Forever) turns his Juno 6 into a living robotic emotion, clashing with Sonny's vocals and setting the backdrop for most of their songs.
While each song is spectacular, "Sibling Ascending" is the stand out track for me: a song that completely obliterates convention and remains one of the most futuristically hostile songs I've ever heard. This song captures The VSS in their truest form; it manages to be cryptic, primal, innovative and threatening all at once. Countless bands have no doubt taken a few ideas from The VSS but it's all good as far as I'm concerned. The VSS should be credited for making the first "futuristic punk album". This is probably one of the best albums ever recorded. Simply put, this album is a work of art and is a must have!"
San Diego?
Justin Mcmahon | So Cal, USA | 06/28/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The VSS were NOT from San Diego, they were from Colorado. Most people think this because all the mid to late 90's San Diego bands aped their sound. Sonny needs to remaster and reissue this on GSL, but I guess he can't because of licencing issues. This albums is great, but 21:51 (singles collection) is even better. Still one of the best live bands I've ever seen."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1