There is something ultra cool about Ulterior, whether it be the goth-tinged electronica of the tunes, the striking, classy artwork or the dark poetic lyrics of main man Paul Anthony McGregor (aka Honey).

'Wild In Wildlife' is the debut album from this London four piece, and I can't help but make comparisons straight away. Those who remember the heady days of the 80s goth scene will surely hear the same as me, the driving bass lines and drum machines of The Sisters Of Mercy and the melodies and vocal similarities of The Mission.

Honey's lyrics are smart and personal, songs of love, sex and death. Interestingly set out in the booklet with no gaps between words encourages the listener to read the lyrics in depth and maybe scratch their head a bit.

The brilliantly titled opener 'Sex War Sex Cars Sex' sets the tone for the album, powerful stuff indeed. Songs such as 'Catherine' and 'Dream Dream' are dark, brooding, synth driven Sisters style. 'Sister Speed' steps the pace up a notch, the basic, repetitive drum track driving the song along nicely, just enough guitar to make it rock 'n' roll. 'Big City Black Rain' rides along on the bass line with a Wayne Hussey like vocal, if I didn't know otherwise I'd swear it was him singing; great song with some fantastic melodies.

'Tarantula' is a two minute 'fuck you' song seemingly over just as soon as it has begun, unlike the title track, an epic ten minute affair; hypnotic, wailing guitars fade after several minutes and I wonder what it's all about. Closer 'Shallow Brown' is set to an almost traditional folk melody and reads like a death note, "goodbye all has failed, goodbye mother, goodbye father, I am wrecked, I long for nothingness" - a stark, solitary end, stripped of the electronica it feels barren and bare almost like a sad farewell.

The contrast of the clinical, mechanical sound of the drum machines mixed with the dirty guitars and dreamy vocals make for a winning combination. There is an apparent buzz about this band in the music media, NME have featured them on the cover and they may be the new dark indie darlings in waiting. A startling debut that oozes dark goth pop from the depths of Ulterior's soul, just the right mix of dirty rock 'n' roll and polished electronic pop ensures that Ulterior cannot be ignored, so pay attention and join the uprising.

www.myspace.com/electricityisblood