Arkam Asylum - Running With Scissors

British cyber punks Arkam Asylum follow up their landmark debut (Learn to Love Your Cancer) with this even more belligerent sophomore release. Often compared to Atari Teenage Riot, Ultraviolence, and old Ministry; Arkam Asylum prove to be more dynamic than any of the electronic masters. The trio of Zero (vocals), Angel (guitars), and Bug (keyboards) developed a reputation for putting on intense and chaotic live shows, reminding people of the late seventies, early eighties punk movement.

Running With Scissors opens with the in your face "Get Some," then settle into their traditional punk meets electronics sound on "Ground Zero" and "Nerve." "You Spin Me Round" (Dead Or Alive) gets a busier, heavier updated sound. "Slaves and Whores" is definitely reminscent of old Ministry, while "McFuck" is an experimental electronic extravaganza. "Gundam High" has the heavy guitars but Zero's vocals are more like the British pop stars of the early eighties. Running With Scissors is a nice substitute for the straight forward, non challenging rock punk is usually known for. The electronic elements work here, especially with Zero's charismatic presence.