Los Angeles-based duo Zeistencroix return with Psychotronic, an album that dives deep into industrial rock, electronic textures and darker atmospheres.
Across eight tracks, Orlando “OD” Draven and Santi Rivillas create a world filled with tension, heavy riffs and cinematic moments. It perfectly matches the album’s themes of control, manipulation and the uneasy relationship between individuals and the systems around them.
The album opens with “Get It On” and there is no slow introduction. Industrial sounds appear first before the full weight of the instruments kicks in. I found myself focusing more on the beat than anything else. The rhythm feels powerful and physical while the chorus brings a heavier metal influence that fits naturally with the industrial side of the song.
“Subliminal Intentions” brings a completely different energy. It is more upbeat and takes the album somewhere unexpected after such a strong opening track. The distorted vocal effects were not entirely for me but that is purely a personal preference. The production is still interesting and I can see how that processed vocal style fits into the atmosphere Zeistencroix are creating.
“Blame The One Behind” continues with similar energy and I preferred the second half of the track. When the vocal effects become lighter, OD’s voice comes through more naturally and it gives the song another dimension. It is a good reminder that underneath all the production choices, there is a strong vocalist at the centre of the project.
The opening of “Deceiving” immediately caught me off guard. The sound reminded me of helicopter blades spinning overhead. It creates a feeling of tension before the song explodes into full industrial-rock territory while the entire track carries a sense of urgency.
“Decadence” is probably the song where the title and the music match perfectly. Everything about it feels dark and heavy, creating exactly the kind of atmosphere you would expect from a track with that name.
If I had to choose one song from the album, it would be “Animals In Denial”. The combination of the instrumentation, the different vocal tones and the overall mood really works here. The small quieter section around 1:40 was a great addition because it gives the track space before bringing back the heavier elements. That change in dynamics makes the whole song more memorable.
“So Long” was another interesting surprise. It starts with a soft, almost hypnotic introduction that immediately creates a different feeling. I almost wished the song stayed in that space fully because that atmosphere was so captivating but the heavier sections still work well, especially thanks to the excellent riffs.
The album closes with “My Love” which, surprise, begins with acoustic guitar and creates a completely different expectation. I liked hearing this more stripped-back side of Zeistencroix after so much intensity. Personally, I preferred the quieter moments of the track and connected less with the heavier ending.
One thing I appreciated throughout Psychotronic is how often it changes direction. Even though the album has a strong industrial identity, Zeistencroix are not afraid to experiment with different textures, vocal approaches and moods. This is definitely an intense and ambitious record.
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