SXSW 2012

The debut full-length album by LIGHT ASYLUM has been a long time coming, but not without rabid anticipation. As their self-released In Tension EP circulated and resonated with new leagues of listeners worldwide, the reputation of duo Shannon Funchess and Bruno Coviello sweltered via their intense live show, collaborations, and remixes. LIGHT ASYLUM marks Funchessʼ and Covielloʼs return to the recorded fray with renewed intent, emotion and visceral energy, all to powerful effect. Described as ʻable to hypnotize and hold an audience in a state of bondageʼ, Funchess has sealed a reverent status through her vocal breadth and captivating expression. Having shared recordings with the likes of Teengirl Fantasy, Telepathe, TV On The Radio, !!!, and Ford & Lopatin, the multi- instrumentalistʼs vocal talents stay in steady demand. LIGHT ASYLUM cements Funchessʼ reputation as a singular voice. From the guttural intonations and militaristic drills to the melancholic leading melodies and operatic tenor, Funchessʼ range remains wide but balanced and carefully controlled. Having spent years touring and performing as synth pop project The Dreamies, Coviello channels a different strand of influence and completes the LIGHT ASYLUM sound alongside Funchess. The result is an uncompromising, rugged mixture of coldwave, EBM and electro-industrial structured through pop of the toughest sensibilities. A LIGHT ASYLUM production straddles underground electronic club music and radio song culture - part introverted, aggressive vehicles, part bright, jubilant fanfares - passages of carefully devised harmony and melody bloom between stabs of driving keyboards and drum machines. LIGHT ASYLUM is a collection of ten songs that are contemplative and starkly necessary. From the heated synth punk of ʻIPCʼ, ʻPope Will Rollʼ and ʻAt Willʼ to the cinematic modesty of love songs like ʻAngel Tongueʼ, ʻShallow Tearsʼ and ʻA Certain Personʼ; the basement-found emotions of ʻHour Fortressʼ and ʻSins of the Fleshʼ to the melodic dramas of ʻHeart of Dustʼ and ʻEnd of Daysʼ, LIGHT ASYLUM have achieved an exhilarating, genuine and important moment.