Liv Kristine - Deus ex Machina (2024)

There is nothing like a re-release of an album that came out 26 years ago to make you feel old. We still remember picking up Liv Kristine’s solo debut back in 1998 and being weirded out at first about it. In “Deus ex Machina”, Liv explored a more electronic/alternative side to her, and we, at the time, just wanted another Theater of Tragedy-like release. Fast forward to 2024 and we have loved this release to the point our original digipak is quite worn down.

Usually not reviewed here, re-releases are mostly targeted at nostalgic fans as they usually include plenty of extra special tracks (one full disc worth in this case). However, we see this re-release as an opportunity for Liv to get newer fans with her charismatic voice and excellent songwriting skills. While the masterful “3 A.M.” is the best release of this album, we get five more versions of it featuring alternative mixes.

The same treatment for our favorite album title track, we get three more mixes in this release. A few special tracks include some demo versions from 1999 and even a live version of “Inamorata”. All of these bring back old memories and also showcase how far has Liv Kristine come musically with her latest release “Rivers of Diamonds”.

Featuring a brand new cover picture, “Deus ex Machina” is a very nice nostalgic trip for fans of Liv Kristine and all her bands. It also has the potential to get into new people as the physical copies of this release have been long gone, and for the vinyl lovers, this will finally be released as a vinyl LP with a new version of “Portrait: Ei Tulle med Øyne Blå”.

Label: Metalville Records (digital) / Allegro Talent Music (physical)

Release: March 1st, 2024

Genre: Alternative/Gothic Metal

Country: Norway