About this album
Where they were
Released in 1981, 'Red Mecca' marked Cabaret Voltaire's third studio album and followed their influential work on 'Voice of America'. The album represents a pivotal moment in their evolution, as they embraced a more experimental sound while laying groundwork for the burgeoning electronic and industrial music scenes.
Why it matters
'Red Mecca' is notable for its critical reception, often cited as a landmark album in the industrial genre. It influenced subsequent artists and movements, particularly within the realms of electronic body music and post-punk aesthetics, earning praise from publications like NME and The Wire for its innovative approach.
Essential tracks
- "A Touch of Evil" — This track encapsulates the album's dark, atmospheric sound, blending unsettling samples with a mechanical beat that set a precedent for future electronic music.
- "Sly Doubt" — With its pulsating rhythm and layered textures, 'Sly Doubt' showcases the band's ability to merge dance elements with avant-garde soundscapes, emphasizing their experimental ethos.
- "Black Mask" — 'Black Mask' stands out for its hypnotic groove and haunting vocals, representing the darker themes explored throughout the album while pushing boundaries of traditional songwriting.
Release Date
January 1, 1981
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 A Touch of Evil 3:11
- 2 Sly Doubt 4:59
- 3 Landslide 2:08
- 4 A Thousand Ways 10:35
- 5 Red Mask 6:54
- 6 Split Second Feeling 3:47
- 7 Black Mask 3:19
- 8 Spread the Virus 3:40
- 9 A Touch of Evil (reprise) 1:33
