FrightDoll declares that she wants to make the difference in the so-called "Future Pop", namely the contemporary Electrogoth scene. She describes her music as containing "minimal electronics, enriched with subtle arrangements, floating impressive songs, seductive melodies and demanding beats." And only the fact that she plays a sort of Electrogoth/Electropop is by definition restrictive. The performed typical samples, beats and keyboard dummies are indications of limited musical inspiration. She might have a real talent in writing music, which is not obvious from this specific release.

In fact, the majority of the album sounds boring and flat. I will quote some characteristic examples: "Marionette" is dominated by a typical German Industrial beat, like marching soldiers; "Unit" sounds like a children song; "Neutrino Glaze" tries to say something but the overlapping "touf-touf" sample literally destroys any good willing intentions. At some songs the situation becomes even worse and almost intolerable ("Tension," "Version").

Luckily there are some exceptions, some pleasant glints such as "Questions" or "Gravity," which are sensual, mysterious songs with some interest. However, these inspiration oases suffocate in the general mediocrity. Briefly, Reference Version is an indifferent release not only for typical Metal fans, but also for Gothic Rockers. Only the hardcore Electro-Industrial and so on Dark Wave fans might find something interesting in it.

written by Panayiotis Papandreopoulos

Playing time: 37:54