Industrial Revolution, a long overdue site inspection of industrial music, sweeps broadly across the entire history and diverse offerings of this genre. The early art noise assemblages of Throbbing Gristle and Einstuerzende Neubauten, the hardened electro-funk dance of Nine Inch Nails and Die Warzau, the torturous metal of Ministry and its spawns, and the cyberhorror of groups like Skinny Puppy are covered in short histories, discographies, and photographs. Band lineup changes and the migrations of group members are cross-referenced. A brief chronology of industrial music is included, beginning with the introduction of electronic instruments in 1928 to the release of Psychic TV singles and 12-inch mixes in 1994. Author Dave Thompson also bravely attempts to chart the influences on industrial by such artists as Stockhausen, Kraft-werk, Can, and Brian Eno.
The only disappointment here is that industrial fanzines, artists, writers, and clubs are not listed. In an incestuous subculture like this, these aspects are as vital as the music that fuels the scene. A double CD companion, containing over two hours of music, is also available.
Industrial Revolution, by Dave Thompson, US$18.98. CD Companion, US$19.98. Cleopatra Music: +1 (310) 305 0172, fax +1 (310) 821 4702.
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