Neu Mode Moderne

When your musical style requires pulsating basslines and deep, emotional vocals to be part of the package, you’re bound to be lumbered with comparisons: it’s difficult to interview Mode Moderne without going gung-ho with the “who are your influences?” questions. Their response is quite refreshing; “actually the comparisons are encouraging,” says Clint, “the bands people reference such as Joy Division are great, we love them.”

I’ve seen that question put to Editors / White Lies – two British bands constantly accused of harbouring a similar sound to Joy Division. Their response is usually shy and withdrawn. Phillip and Clint cite images of Ancient Greece, Knut Hamsun books and the Factory back catalogue amongst their genuine influences; “and throw in some Scott Walker for me, we’ll be alright.” But they also welcome comparisons to Joy Division and Crystal Stilts with open arms.

In 2009 the Vancouver-born band brought out a self-released LP, ‘Ghosts Emerging’. Still firmly on the agenda, the group plan to put it out as a limited-edition re-release through a proper label. “The band is proud of that LP,” says Phillip, “though it seems nostalgic for me to hear those songs I’m excited that people are discovering it.”

One song that stands out in particular is ‘Les Neuf Soeurs’; a classic blend of beauty and darkness, which makes sense when you consider Phillip’s mentioning of Knut Hamsun’s ‘Pan’, the “isolation, cyclical seasons, sudden changes and irrational decisions.” All these, he says, had some bearing on the LP during recording. Influences, it has been proven, can be a wonderful thing.

Mode Moderne - Les Neuf Soeurs by Music Fan’s Mic