SPK were an Australian Industrial group that allegedly met each other while working at a mental asylum. I don't know whether this story is true, but the music on this album certainly doesn't hurt its case.
Consisting of a mishmash of metallic clanking, tape loops, disturbing spoken word stories, breaking glass and women screaming, Leichenschrei is the stuff of nightmares. The influence of such pioneers as Cabaret Voltaire and Throbbing Gristle is heard throughout, although SPK clearly have a style all their own. There's never a dull moment, and I wouldn't hesitate to rate this up with Throbbing Gristle's D.O.A as one of the finest records of the genre.
Well said and reviewed! One minor inaccuracy: SPK were actually Australian, not German. Easy mistake to make, though!
ReplyDeleteI actually just stumbled on your blog today while looking for reviews of this album. Very nice work! Mind if I link to it from mine?
Thank you for the correction, and the compliment. Please feel free to link me anywhere you like.
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