John Came - Rhythmicon (1995/2023)

John Came is actually Erasure. This offbeat release is an instrumental affair, with the music sounding like a cross between classical and dance. In that sense it works and it is quite an interesting CD. Vince Clarke is one of the few synth players who can make the instrument work like an instrument, and as such is able to create very melodic tunes buried under the electronic noise. Andy Bell's (known on this release as Nick Cope) involvement is vague, as there are scant lyrics and vocals. However, the titles of the songs are brilliant, for which he could take some credit. The liner notes are quite amusing and the overall packaging gives the sense that this is an underground release full of mystery. There is no mystery: electronica and Erasure fans will thoroughly enjoy this CD.