CD Review: The Sleeps

Fuse (Girlfriend)

Wed, Jul 20, 2011 at 4:00 am

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This new electro-rock band has an obvious love for the '80s. On its debut EP, the Cleveland trio blends airy vocals, fuzzy synths, and classic drum machines with slick production that was handled in-house. The vocals are a little rough at times, but Fuse otherwise delivers a catchy slice of retro candy. It's easy to draw comparisons to groups like Depeche Mode and Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, but there's enough modern-day buzz and originality here to steer the band clear of the copycat label. The EP includes three songs, plus two remixes from labelmates HR and Gossip Culture. Fuse may be a too-brief introduction to the Sleeps, but it's enough to instill optimism for their future. — Eddie Fleisher

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