Friday, September 10, 2010

I’m Unsatisfied - Review - The Cambodian Space Project

Single Review

The Cambodian Space Project
I'm Unsatisfied 7"

Article written by Ged M - Aug 8, 2010

The label claims this is the first vinyl single by a Cambodian band since 1975, when the Khmer Rouge killed all the singers (and the teachers, and the doctors and…) in the Killing Fields. There are diaspora bands like Dengue Fever but this is a Phnom Penh-based outfit put together by an ex-pat Australian and including Cambodians and French players, and fronted by the incredible voice of Srey Thy. It's a culture clash of sorts – they play like the 5,6,7,8s but their sound is faithful to the spirit of the 60s/ 70s music that itself was a fusion of traditional Khmer songs and the rock'n'roll imported by GIs. 'Knyom Mun Sok Jet Te (I'm Unsatisfied)' is staggering, from its warped psych-rock to the unearthly vocals of Srey Thy, who stays true to the spirit of singers like Ros Sereysothea and Pan Ron (who originally wrote this). 'I'm Still Waiting For You' is another mindfuck, with lyrics by another dead Khmer pop legend Sin Sisamouth played over the tune to 'House of the Rising Sun'. The incredible picture disc imagery just rounds it off nicely. If you've ever heard any of the Cambodia Rocks compilations, or just want an out-of-body experience, you'll find this perfect.

Links:www.myspace.com/thecambodianspaceproject
7" maxi-single I'm Unsatisfied available on
Metal Postcard www.metalpostcard.com