OFFICERS – ON THE TWELVE THRONES
Released 17th October 2011 (Original Wall Of Death Recordings) 

Words: Tom Willmott

The first time Leeds four-piece Officers came to my attention was around early 2009 when they looked like a band with some potential, gaining moderate airplay and even scoring a support slot for Placebo. However, the next two years saw them slowly slip under the radar until now when they’ve returned, armed with a debut album. The question is have they waited too long for this unveiling or has the wait produced the perfect output that will satisfy their fans?

Their influences come from the likes of My Bloody Valentine, Depeche Mode and Nine Inch Nails, so it was obvious we would be hearing something atmospheric, and “Disarm” is a good demonstration of an electro/rock mashup. The trouble is the majority of the album comes across to me as a bit dated. Perhaps it would have fared better around the early 00′s but I suppose it’s not for me to say when they should release their music. Granted, there are a few tracks that lift it above the mediocre: “Good Day (To Die)” and “Say It Again” are gritty and engaging but “All The Ghosts Away” and “Soul Saviour (Mutations)” come across as soundtracks to a very dull night out.

There is still time for the band to grow and develop, but the problem is these days a number of bands fail even to get past their first EP, so the future is uncertain. “On The Twelve Thrones” is a record that might require multiple listens, or just an appreciation of industrial music but if the latter isn’t your bag, then maybe this isn’t the one for you.