Gary Numan latest album release, "Exile", from 1997 proves that he is not only the most underrated musician in the field of darkwave, new wave, and electronica - but he is the reason all similiar bands reflect his ideas and cover his songs. Numan eliminated his Janet Jackson "R&B pop" style on his album "Sacrifice" and continues his dark, almost gothic sound on "Exile".

This album, a concept album follow-up to 1994's "Sacrifice", deals with a question Gary Numan once had. "What if heaven and hell existed and they were the same place?". Some would call this album religious blasphemy but others, including myself, call the tracks on this album pure masterpieces.

From track 1, "Dominion Day", to track 9 "Exile", Numan traces the effects of a single afterlife. Gary explores thing as God dancing in flames, angels urinating on graves, and the Three Wise Men raping the Virgin Mary. This is, by far, an exit from is futuristic musings on albums like "The Pleasure Principle", "Telekon", and "Machine & Soul".

This album is not only a reflection of Numan's great song writing and incomparable voice but it is also a sign of things to come. Numan is currently working on his new album, "Pure", and it should be in stores before the summer of 2001. If you are unfamiliar with Gary Numan or would like to hear what his new music sounds like, I highly recommend "Exile".





Recommended: Yes