Perfecting the Synthesizer: Soulwax’s Masterpiece “All Systems Are Lying” Marks 2025 Return
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All systems are a go for Soulwax, the Belgian electronic band born from the creative prowess of brothers David and Stephen Dewaele. Years of impressive musical evolution culminated in their cliff-hanging 2025 album, “All Systems Are Lying,” transforming our musical landscape with a single stroke. The ground-breaking record, the group’s premier studio album in seven years, was materially constructed from modular synths, robust live drums, processed vocals, and tape machines substituting for electric guitars.
Since their formation in 1995, Soulwax has made waves in the music industry, earning acclaims for albums like “Much Against Everyone’s Advice.” Their renown heightened with their DJ sets under the alias 2manydjs, a name that echoes within the dance community. The Dewaele brothers brought a refreshing sound that reflected in their “As Heard on Radio Soulwax Pt. 2” project, a compilation that stole the 2002 spotlight.
Stringing together a lineup of distinguished artists including Igor and Laima Cavalera, and Stefaan Van Leuven, Soulwax has created remix paradigms, remixing for astounders such as Daft Punk, LCD Soundsystem, and Gorillaz. Their innovative flair was further established in their remix album series ranging from 2006’s “This Is Radio Soulwax” to “Part of NYE Never Dies” in 2008.
In between these releases, their kinetic energy drew them to Tiga’s album and the formation of the band, Die Verboten alongside Shane Doran and Fergadelic. Around the same time, they launched their brainchild app, Radio Soulwax, a charmingly eccentric project offering a kaleidoscope of visuals paired with the duo’s DJ sets.
Throughout their career, Soulwax hosted colossal Christmas parties with guest appearances by Erol Alkan, Boys Noize, Justice, and even Riton. They have also extended collaborations to fellow Belgians Das Pop, Peaches, and Crookers, displaying their versatility while cutting across musical genres. Additionally, Soulwax has made significant contributions to the Film industry, composing soundtracks like the stirring music featured in the 2016 film Belgica.
Exploring the depths of electronic music similarities with acts like Klaxons and Daft Punk, Soulwax has also injected their signature grit into Grand Theft Auto V’s soundscape through their in-game radio station “Soulwax FM”. Their virtuosity in incorporating punk elements into electronic compositions have made them architects of club anthems and the adored remixes that followed.
“All Systems Are Lying” seems to point out a critical commentary on our modern society, where truth seems more malleable amid the constant hum of filters, noise, and algorithms. This introspective course marks a new era for Soulwax, who continues to experiment, innovate and push the boundaries of electronic music. They remain iconic figures within the electronic music landscape, boasting a celebrated discography that echoes a unique ability to create pensive yet exhilarating club anthems.
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