July 20 2006
Emilie Autumn – Opheliac
Emilie Autumn describes her sound on this EP as “victoriandustrial” and—surprise, surprise—it’s an apt description. Opheliac is composed of faux harpsichord, violin, eclectic programming, and steampunk rhythms that recall a fanciful nether-netherland where difference engines collide in the parlor over a cup of hemlock tea. Autumn’s vocals run the gamut from sweet evocation to growling threat; thankfully, she seems to have abandoned the overly soulful approach she took on previous outings. Interestingly, I detect a bit of a Morrissey influence in the downcast, yet witty, lyrics. Truly, Emilie Autumn is a mad scientist who knows how to coax some life out of her prima materia. Strap on your stomping boots and get ready for…a minuet.
