45 years of The Voice Of America by Cabaret Voltaire!

Released in July 1980, 45 years ago, Cabaret Voltaire, initially composed of Stephen Mallinder, Richard H. Kirk, and Chris Watson, released their second studio album ‘The Voice Of America’ following their 1979 ‘Mix-Up’ LP. The Voice of America stands as a seminal work in the post-punk and industrial music landscape. This album by Cabaret Voltaire, a band hailing from Sheffield, England, showcases their innovative approach to sound and their critical perspective on socio-political issues. The album's mix of abrasive electronic sounds, tape manipulations, and dystopian themes firmly established Cabaret Voltaire as pioneers in the industrial music genre.

The album opens with "The Voice of America/Damage Is Done," immediately setting a tone of disquiet and urgency. The track's layered electronic textures and dissonant rhythms create an unsettling atmosphere, reflecting the band's discontent with contemporary socio-political climates. Richard H. Kirk's guitars and electronics, Stephen Mallinder's vocals and bass, and Chris Watson's tape manipulations combine to produce a sound that is both jarring and captivating.

Throughout the album, Cabaret Voltaire employs a wide array of sonic techniques that were groundbreaking at the time. Tracks like "Premonition" and "News From Nowhere" feature heavy use of tape loops, found sounds, and experimental production methods. These elements contribute to a sense of fragmented reality and media saturation, themes that are central to the album's conceptual framework.

The lyrics throughout The Voice of America are often cryptic and fragmented, mirroring the chaotic soundscapes. Stephen Mallinder's vocal delivery ranges from detached and monotone to aggressive and urgent, emphasizing the album's themes of alienation and dissent. The band's lyrics critique mass media, consumer culture, and political propaganda, reflecting their disillusionment with the state of the world at the time.

The track "Obsession" delves into themes of control and surveillance, a reflection of the growing concerns over government and corporate monitoring. "Messages Received" and "Stay Out of It" further explore these ideas, painting a picture of a society inundated with information yet disconnected from reality.

Produced by the band themselves, The Voice of America is characterized by its raw and unpolished sound. The use of rudimentary recording equipment and unconventional production techniques gives the album an edge that many contemporary recordings lacked. This DIY approach was not only a necessity due to budget constraints but also a deliberate aesthetic choice that aligned with the punk ethos of the time.

The album's influence can be seen in the works of many subsequent artists in the industrial and electronic music scenes. Bands like Nine Inch Nails, Ministry, and Front 242 have cited Cabaret Voltaire as a significant influence, particularly for their pioneering use of electronics and tape manipulation.

Upon its release, The Voice of America received mixed reviews. Some critics were put off by its abrasive sound and unconventional structure, while others praised it for its innovation and boldness. Over time, however, the album has come to be regarded as a classic, with its influence on the industrial genre being widely recognized.

The album's exploration of media manipulation, surveillance, and socio-political control has proven to be remarkably prescient. In an era where these issues are more relevant than ever, The Voice of America continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.

The Voice of America is more than just an album; it is a statement of resistance and a call to awareness. Cabaret Voltaire's use of abrasive electronics, found sounds, and experimental production techniques created a soundscape that was both innovative and reflective of the band's critical view of society. Despite its initial polarizing reception, the album has endured as a crucial work in the history of industrial music, influencing countless artists and continuing to challenge listeners with its uncompromising vision.

The Voice Of America - LP/CD ROUGH 11

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