Honeymoon Cowboys ‎– Still CD / Siglo XX

Honeymoon Cowboys is the new band of Antonio Palermo (guitar) and Klaas Hoogerwaard (drums). Both men used to be members of the legendary Belgian cold wave act Siglo XX, known for the cult classics Individuality, Dreams Of Pleasure and The Art Of War. The band is complemented by Kris Dries (younger brother of former Siglo XX vocalist Erik Dries), Thomas François and Spiral Of Silence vocalist Tom Van Troyen.

Still starts with Time Is Not Our Friend, an ominous post punk track with delicious backing vocals (as if The Bad Seeds are singing along). The title song Still (A Song For V.) is less to my taste. Not so dark, less haunting. It’s a rather regular rock song, simply decent. But no worries, there are numerous gems waiting to be discovered.

The sinister Sea Without Mercy and the reworked Siglo XX song Everything Is On Fire with its lovely organ, also remind me of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. Broken Man is an excellent track with striking arrangements. Dynamic and dramatic.

The live part of the record starts with When The Sky Paints Blue and Up On The Hill. Both are songs in which Antonio Palermo’s guitar play sounds vicious and the piano adds a melodic touch. During Closed Souls, Tom Van Troyen impresses with an intense vocal performance. Broken Man also works well live. The propulsive rhythm section is more prominent. Then 3 Siglo XX covers follow A biting bass and an abrasive guitar dominate The Pain Game. Tom Van Troyen sounds accusing in No One Is Innocent. With Waiting For A Friend the album ends in style.

Label: Tracks And Traces

Country: Belgium

Media Condition: Very Good Plus (VG+)
Sleeve Condition: Near Mint (NM or M-)

Plays fine but has one large mark.