Formed in Sheffield in the early ’70s by Stephen Mallinder, Richard H. Kirk and Chris Watson, highly influential experimental UK band Cabaret Voltaire pioneered music for the 21st century back in the 20th century, blazing trails and innovating a variety of electronic musical styles including industrial, techno, synth-pop, acid house and New Wave. Now under the sole direction of Kirk, who has overseen a spate of reissues over the years, they’ll finally be able to present the futuristic music they created over four decades ago with their first gig in 20 years taking place in August at Berlin Atonal. According to Berlin Atonal, Kirk will perform solo using an array of machines and projections. An array of artists including Donato Dizzy & Nuel, Tim Hecker and Source Direct will also perform at Berlin Atonal. A full schedule and ticket information can be found on the organization’s site.
Those looking to catch up on this trailblazing band should check out CV’s most recent release, #7885 (Electropunk to Technopop 1978 – 1985), issued on Mute Records. It’s a good primer that’ll serve new and long time fans well.
Fun facts to discuss at your next cocktail party: Cabaret Voltaire was the first live act to play The Haçienda in Manchester and their name was taken from a nightclub in Zürich, Switzerland.