Single Review: “Civilization” – Justice

French duo Justice released Cross in 2007 and became almost instantly popular. Fans of electronic music praised the record endlessly, obviously in awe of its well-produced techno-funk sound. It definitely was one of the most interesting electronic albums released up to that point, and it was a breath of fresh air to hear something so unique and interesting. Most popular electronic music suffers from the same thing – repetitiveness, uninteresting song structure, and boring instrumentation – so it makes most of it pointless to listen to away from a concert. Justice transcended this musical barrier and made electronic music that was interesting to examine and enjoy outside of the dance scene.

“Civilization” is reportedly the new single from the duo’s currently untitled second effort – and it’s definitely a welcome evolution from Cross. The beginning of the song sounds like a rock song; a heavily flanged synthesizer whirls over the tapping of a hi-hat that British singer Ali Love sings over. The beat then drops out and the song’s chorus begins – and it’s got the trademark electro disco funk sound that Justice fans fell in love with on their last record. The addition of vocals, however, make it immediately more interesting, and the chorus is a memorable one: “The beating of a million drums/the fire of a million guns/the mother of a million suns/Civilization.” It’s a refrain that’s sure to have concert goers singing along loudly at festivals all summer.

The most unique part of the song, however, is its bridge. The instrumentation is almost reminiscent of The Who’s “Baba O’ Riley” and has a definite classic rock vibe. It’s certainly a unique spin on an electronic song, and it’s great to hear composers of that type of music take chances and move forward in a bold way to separate themselves from the rest of the pack, and it’s a good sign for the band’s new album.

Listen to the song here from 107.7 the End‘s soundcloud page: