Album Review: Dark Outside by Sigmatropic
Sigmatropic’s Dark Outside, released in 2007, is a curious blend of genres that feels like it was stitched together from the late-night musings of artists who couldn’t decide if they wanted to be indie rockers, electronic pioneers, or something entirely different. And honestly, that’s what makes this album stand out—it doesn’t try too hard to fit into any one box. With roots in Greece and the UK, and labels like Tongue Master Records backing them, Sigmatropic delivers an eclectic mix of Alternative/Indie Rock and Electronic sounds that are as unpredictable as they are compelling.
The album features a sprawling tracklist, but two songs really stuck with me: “Crack In the Back” and “Red Across The Sand.” Let’s break ‘em down.
“Crack In the Back” hits you with a moody guitar riff right off the bat, courtesy of Panos Scourtis, before Anna Karakalou’s haunting vocals take center stage. It’s got this raw, almost unfinished feel—like they recorded it live in someone’s garage—but that roughness works in its favor. Akis Boyatzis layers on some subtle electronics that give the track a dreamy vibe without overpowering the core melody. There’s a moment near the end where everything drops out except for Yiannis Tryferoulis’ drums and Karakalou’s voice, and man, it sends chills down your spine.
On the flip side, “Red Across The Sand (feat. Carla Jorgenson)” leans more into the electronic side of things. This track is sleeker, smoother, and packed with atmospheric textures. Jorgenson’s guest vocals add a layer of soulful depth, while Kappa Mysta’s keys keep things moving forward. What makes this song memorable isn’t just its lush production—it’s how it builds tension. You can tell Akis Boyatzis (who wears so many hats here he might as well be running a one-man band) knows exactly when to pull back and let the silence speak.
One thing worth noting about Dark Outside is how collaborative it feels. From Theodore Pistiolas’ arrangements to Ian Caple’s mastering touch, every contributor leaves their mark without stepping on each other’s toes. Even the artwork, designed by Matt Dornan with illustrations by Rena Avagianou, has this understated charm that matches the music perfectly.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the album occasionally bites off more than it can chew. Tracks like “Ours At Least” and “White (feat. Howe Gelb)” show flashes of brilliance but don’t quite stick the landing. Still, these minor missteps don’t detract much from the overall experience.
Reflecting on Dark Outside, it strikes me as the kind of album that sneaks up on you. At first listen, you might think, “Yeah, it’s good, but not groundbreaking.” But then you find yourself humming “Crack In the Back” days later or zoning out to the hypnotic beats of “Red Across The Sand.” By the time you realize it, the album’s already burrowed its way into your brain.
Here’s the unexpected part: despite its flaws, Dark Outside feels refreshingly human. It’s messy, ambitious, and unapologetically itself—a reminder that sometimes, the best art comes from embracing imperfection. So yeah, give it a spin. Just don’t expect perfection; expect personality.
Rating: 8/10
Final Thought: If Sigmatropic ever reunites for another project, I hope they bring even more of that chaotic energy. Because honestly? We could all use a little more chaos in our playlists.
