Oppenheimer
Oppenheimer
Bar None/Shock


When I first picked up the Oppenheimer CD I didn't know what to expect. Although the band has picked up a following on both sides of the Atlantic, they are just beginning to gather momentum down-under.

The artwork gives the listener their first clue; dreamy synthetic designs which act as an introduction to the carefree disco-pop lying within. Kicking off with This Is Not A Test, Oppenheimer waste no time in creating the album's mood; with moog synthesizer and keys pounding out an upbeat and catchy melody. The music has a unique feel and, though hard to compare, does elicit the spirit of Kraftwerk, but Oppenheimer's pop sensibilities keep the music closer to Earth.

The album's single, Breakfast In NYC, along with the artistic clip, has been a cult smash in the US. Its pulsating rhythm and driving bass keep the song together; which, upon a second listen, seems to be a hallmark of the entire album.

The band also gets serious on 'My Son The Astronaut; with the lyrics expressing the band's legitimate views of the world and giving the listener an idea of where Oppenheimer are reality at.

Oppenheimer are what you would hope for in disco-pop and a little bit more - dreamy artificial sounds with grounded melodies; faraway vocals that sometimes have a message. It will lighten a dark day. Good - but they haven't split the atom yet.

Petria Smith