Artist: Cabaret Voltaire Album: Red Mecca

Year: 1981
Duration: 40:09

A Critical Review of Cabaret Voltaire's Red Mecca

Cabaret Voltaire is a British group formed in 1973 consisting mainly of Richard H. Kirk, Stephen Mallinder, and Chris Watson. They were a major influence in the post-punk and industrial genres and are credited with being pioneers in electronic music. Cabaret Voltaire has released a number of records throughout the years, and among them is the iconic album, Red Mecca, which we will be critically reviewing today.

Red Mecca, which was released in 1981, is considered by many to be one of Cabaret Voltaire's strongest albums. The album features a massive number of genres, including electronic, industrial, post-punk, and experimental styles, all blended together seamlessly. The album is deeply political, with many of the songs addressing issues like fascism, war, and dictatorship.

One of the standout tracks of Red Mecca is Nag Nag Nag, which is driven by a distinctive and energetic rhythm and powerful lyrics. This track showcases the band's incredible songwriting skills and is a testament to their talent for crafting memorable and infectious music. Another excellent song on the album is Landslide, which displays the band's ability to create moody and atmospheric soundscapes with ease.

One of the most innovative parts of Red Mecca is the way in which it blends traditional instruments with electronic ones, creating an entirely unique sound that sets Cabaret Voltaire apart from their contemporaries. The vocals on the album are another exceptional feature, with Mallinder's haunting and evocative voice lending a sense of foreboding to the album's already eerie atmosphere.

However, despite its many successes, Red Mecca is not without its flaws. The album's final track, Walls of Jericho, is a mishmash of noise and abstract sounds that comes across as more of an experiment than a fully formed track. Similarly, the album's production can be a bit uneven at times, with certain tracks sounding overly cluttered and chaotic.

Overall, Cabaret Voltaire's Red Mecca is an essential album that showcases the band's incredible talents and their groundbreaking innovations. With its political themes, intricate instrumentation, and haunting vocals, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the post-punk and industrial genres. While it may not be perfect, Red Mecca is a true classic and a testament to the incredible talent of Cabaret Voltaire.