The Wake

Strengthened by the infectious melodies of their self-professed electro/indie/disco-house songs, The Battle Royale has turned heads at Radio K and First Avenue, where they won 2005’s Battle of the Underage Underground competition. The win secured them a one-record deal with local label Afternoon Records, who produced their debut full-length, “Sparkle Dust Fantasy.”

The Battle Royale consists of four local high school students. Mark Ritsema covers keyboards, vocals, and beats, Sam Robertson’s on organ, Grace Fiddler contributes bass and vocals, and John Pelant sings and plays guitar. The group, named after a gruesome Japanese flick, has constructed a surprisingly dense album in “Sparkle Dust Fantasy.” The production is interesting, with edgy, though clearly articulated guitar lines, a plethora of synth and organ sounds, plus strong vocals and layering. The melodic structures are also worth noting: songs are overflowing with heavy dance beats and innocent, at times almost corny, sounding vocals.

Songs “Jackpot” and “Confessions” blend pop with dark harmonic elements, in opposition to the dance-oriented lyrics and beats. The memorably pervasive “Oh Martha” is none other than single-worthy. Musically, one of the most interesting tracks is “My Way,” with its epic, modulating sound. Also, “Folk Song,” the album’s closer, is a throwback to the bands pre-Devo days of supposedly exclusive folk styling. An all-around interesting listen, even for those who can’t dance.