Don Bodin and Leisel are the duo that makes up File
Underwater. Bodin sings and both play some guitar, program and write. The remaining
instruments on the album consist of electronic instruments, bass, and live drums. The
drums, while not extraordinarily complex or prominent, play a huge part in keeping the
energy of this album on edge. It is the live instruments that separate this group from so
many industrial acts. The result is the rarest of things: an industrial album that feels
like a live album and an electronic band that begs to be seen on stage. Don Bodin’s
vocals sound influenced by traditional industrial vocalists, though at times he can almost
sound like alternative popster Billy Corgan.
The tracks of Flu’id make for a good album. Each track maintains the duo’s
signature sound, but the tempos and textures vary in a way that makes the album listen
like a story unfolding. It’s no wonder Don Bodin once created a mock soundtrack album
of local bands including File Underwater. "Malificent’s Demise" is one of
my favorite cuts on this album. This song’s alternation between heavy guitars and
short sections stripped away of all but vocals and faint guitars drives home the emotional
energy of this group. "A Wake" is a beautiful and haunting ambient song. Faint
guitars with a pounding bass drum give this track almost a trip-hop feel. I only wish this
song were longer. It begins to fade away after only thirty seconds leaving the listener
chasing it in hopes of more.
File Underwater
