While the concept of unlikely musical team-ups is always interesting, the results are often unpredictable. For every Bowie and Bing there’s a Metallica and Lou Reed: the experiments usually yield more misses than hits.
D.A.R.K., featuring the Cranberries’ Dolores O’Riordan, ex-Smiths bassist Andy Rourke and DJ/producer Ole Koretsky, buck that trend with their ‘80s steeped debut Science Agrees and, while there are a few wobbles (‘Steal You Away,’ ‘Underwater’), it’s a strong offering.
There’s a huge New Order influence throughout (‘Curvy’, ‘Watch Out’); the Bowie-informed ‘Gunfight’ is superb; and the record is crammed with hooks and slick studio trickery. O’Riordan’s vocals are understated but effective, and much of the material sees her sing alongside Koretsky (‘Miles Away’), while Rourke’s basslines steer the ship.
The ghosts of The Cranberries and The Smiths rarely make an appearance on Science Agrees: all concerned have created a project that genuinely stands on its own.