The Passage- Degenerates LP (Reissue)

I just had the pleasure of being turned on to this record at this week's local Wierd Records party, and I've already spun it twice this morning. Why not upload it, n'est-ce pas?

The band in question is The Passage, a UK-based experimental synthpop band that formed in 1978. The band's first two records are truly dark, minimal records, but for their third, 1982's Degenerates, the band added a more polished synth shine to their shuffling experimental backdrop, a perfect marriage of both the catchy and the challenging. Some tracks remind me of Public Image Limited or latter-day Scott Walker (which makes sense, given that Tony Friel, founding member of The Fall, was a member), while other tracks are true synthpop masterpieces.

Though Degenerates was originally released by Cherry Red, this particular upload features several 7'' bonus tracks added to the limited CD re-release, which dropped via LTM Publishing in 2003. I believe the CD version is also out of print.

There's more to the Passage story kicking around online, so click here to check out an extensive tribute page to the band, complete with a full discography, lush bio, and a slew of goodies. Otherwise without any further ado, let's get to the details.



The Passage- Degenerates CD
1. XOYO
2. Fleck
3. Revelation
4. Love Is As
5. Born Every Minute
6. (Ourselves)
7. Go To Seed
8. Armour
9. Time Will Tell
10. Empty Words
11. XOYO (7")
12. Animal In Me
13. Born Every Minute (Flexi)
14. Taboos
15. Taboodub

*download it here*

*LINK UPDATED TO INCLUDE FINAL MISSING TRACK--> MY APOLOGIES!*

Otherwise, I still have a few requests and donations to tackle, sorry for the delay! Otherwise, in case I don't check back in beforehand, happy Halloween to those who celebrate!

Zwischenfall- Gestern Und Heute CD

As promised, here's a CD compilation of German new wave/minimal band Zwischenfall, who wrote some of the most underrated tracks of the '80s. Several of the cuts on this collection are dance floor destroyers, especially "Sandy Eyes" (more of an italo cut), "Sacred Time," "Atemlos," and two versions of "Flucht."

From what I gather, the Gestern Und Heute CD collects the band's entire discography, including a rather '90s sounding remix of "Flucht." The collection was released in 1995, and fetches a rather high price, even for a CD. I can't seem to find anything concrete on the band aside from the band members involved (Martin Urban, Michael Sass, & Stephan Kraemer), but google tells me that a prominent European club takes their name from the band.

Perhaps their legacy (like most of the bands featured here) is stronger overseas. On that note, let's get to the music.



Zwischenfall- Gestern Und Heute CD
1. Atemlos
2. Heimatlose
3. Millionen
4. Flucht '82 (German Version)
5. Sandy Eyes
6. Flucht '84 (English Version)
7. Polar Magazine
8. Sacred Time
9. Katastrophe
10. Tausend Jahre
11. Atemlos (Remix '93)
12. Flucht (Remix '94)

*download it here*

Teenage Brain Surgeon- Fatal Day 7''

I don't tend to buy into the whole "holy grail" aspect of the minimal synth/new wave genre, but I'm tempted to make an exception for today's post. In short, I was first clued in to Teenage Brain Surgeon's existence by fantastic fashion guru and DJ Jeralyn, who runs I'll Wear Any Color as Long as It's Black. We were only able to track down 2/3rds of their sparse discography, but I was fortunate enough to stumble upon the final, elusive track in my late-night travels. Huzzah!

There's virtually no information available about this German band, as this is their lone release. The limited edition 7'' (1,000 copies are said to be in existence) was self-released in 1988. Extremely rare, but extremely solid, all three of these tracks are ripe for the dance floor, chock full of infectious electronics and a stomping beat. The title track is especially choice, and never fails me in a DJ set.

If anyone out there has any information whatsoever regarding this band, feel free to chime in! Otherwise, let's get to the good stuff, shall we?



Teenage Brain Surgeon- Fatal Day 7''
1. Fatal Day
2. Years Gone By
3. Cold

*download it here*

Next up, we have a rare compilation of Zwischenfall as well as another generous donation from Jeff! Stay tuned for more over the next few days.

Fiction Technology- Mega/Phase EP

A friend of mine was recently requesting more from Fiction Techonology, so I've uploaded their entire EP for everyone's listening pleasure. Little is known about this particular minimal synth band, as this is their only release. No band credits, no info outside of its German label release in 1986. Coincidentally, it's the same label who released the coveted Nine Circles disc, another coveted slice of minimal synth, but that's all we've got. A shame, seeing as "In the City" is a perfect dancefloor gem.

Does anyone out there in the ether have any more light to shed on this particular band or release? Feel free to drop a line. Otherwise, on to the music!



Fiction Technology- Mega/Phase EP
1. Time In Vision
2. Delta X
3. Mega / Phase
4. In The City
5. Dancing Puppets

*download it here*

Bastion- Bastion LP

Here's a curious anomaly from Yugoslavia. As far as I'm aware, this particular eponymous LP, released in 1984, is Bastion's only release. A little schitzophrenic new wave/synthpop, in the vein of Pas De Deux, Sizike, and Borghesia.

I can't seem to find a ton of information about the band outside of a small blurb on Discogs, so if anyone knows more, feel free to chime in. Otherwise, here's the info:

Bastion- Bastion LP
1. Hollywood
2. Deca Sunca
3. A Hot Day In Mexico
4. Mesec U Šolji
5. Mister Kompleks
6. Lica U Ogledalu
7. Molitva
8. Boja

*download it here*

Beautiful Pea Green Boat- Still Life CD

Today's post features a collection by UK ethereal/post-punk band Beautiful Pea Green Boat, released on CD in 1989. Taking their name from The Owl and the Pussycat, a classic children's poem written by Edward Lear, the outfit were primarily a two piece, consisting of Ian Williams and Heather Wright. The band released a handful of 12'' and two full length recordings in the mid-1980s, splitting at the turn of the decade. Their material is often downtempo, melodic, and moody, with several repetitive synths grounding the material with an electronic/darkwave edge.

This collection is comprised of the band's best moments from their two prior LPs (1987's Obsessions and 1988's Get Religion). Perhaps I'll upload them too, should anyone be interested. Otherwise, here's the info for the compilation:



Beautiful Pea Green Boat- Still Life CD
1. The Powerhouse
2. Hammers Of Islam
3. Too Much
4. When Dreams Moved In
5. The Vase
6. Among The Ruins
7. Paper House
8. Danielle
9. Mirror Of Souls
10. The Screw
11. Nostalgia
12. And She Laughed Too

*download it here*

Various Artists- Reset Records 1983-1985 Comp.

Uploading this one for a friend and figured I'd toss it up here as well. This particular release is an unofficial collection/torrent comprising of all the Reset Records 12 and 7 inches. For those unaware, Reset Records was formed by Vince Clarke (Depeche Mode, Yazoo, Erasure) and Eric Radcliffe, a collaborator and famed Mute Records producer. The releases are synth-based, as one might expect from the interests of the label's founders.

Now for the contributors. Robert Marlow (real name Robert Allen), who released seven different slabs of wax for Reset, has a long history with Mute/Sire records. He played guitar with Alison Moyet in a punk band in '77, and also appeared alongside Vince Clarke and Martin Gore in French Look, before Depeche Mode was officially formed. Marlow still makes music today under various monikers, including Marlow.

Peter Hewson, who released but one 7'', was a member of seventies glam/pop band Chicory Tip.

Hardware is a pseudonym for Radcliffe's own music, and not much is known about Absolute, but I would love to hear more about them if anyone is in the know.

The compilation also contains a rare 12 and 7 inch release by Twilight. Twilight featured Erasure's tour manager Andrew Mansi and future Nitzer Ebb tour manager Steev Toth. Though the record was released on Polydor, makes sense to collect it here due to Clarke's production. Otherwise, without any further ado, here's the tracklisting for the compilation:

CD 1
1. Robert Marlow- The Face Of Dorian Gray (Extended)
2. Robert Marlow- The Tale Of Dorian Gray (Extended)
3. Robert Marlow- I Just Want To Dance (Extended)
4. Robert Marlow- No Heart (Extended)
5. Robert Marlow- Claudette
6. Robert Marlow- This Happy World (Extended)
7. Robert Marlow- The Face Of Dorian Grey
8. Robert Marlow- The Tale Of Dorian Grey
9. Robert Marlow- I Just Wanna Dance
10. Robert Marlow- No Heart
11. Robert Marlow- Claudette
12. Robert Marlow- This Happy World
13. Robert Marlow- Calling All Destroyers
14. Robert Marlow - In Retrospect

CD 2:
1. Peter Hewson- Take My Hand
2. Peter Hewson- Her
3. Absolute- T.V. Glare
4. Absolute- At The Thirdstroke
5. Absolute- T.V. Glare (Extended)
6. Absolute- At The Third Stroke (Extended)
7. Absolute- Can't You See
8. Absolute- Love In My Heart
9. Hardware- Dance
10. Hardware- Hey
11. Hardware- Dance (Extended)
12. Hardware- Hey (Extended)
13. Twilight- Just Me Alone
14. Twilight- Talk To You
15. Twilight- Just Me Alone (Extended)
16. Twilight- Talk To You (Extended)

*download both discs here!*

Invisible Limits- A Conscious State LP

Invisible Limits were a German synthpop/darkwave band who formed in 1985. The band was originally the brainchild of Thomas Lüdke, who departed after releasing two 12'' singles to form the Invisible Spirit. The band shed their then darker edge and employed a more poppy approach, releasing material well into the '90s.

Though the band seemingly split, an unreleased "final" album appeared in 2005, self-released by the band through their official site. The band has also issued a five disc box set comprising their entire discography and a handful of single remixes, so any curious parties might do well to pick one up via Amazon import. Otherwise, here's the information for their second full-length record, 1989's A Conscious State.



Invisible Limits- A Conscious State LP
1. Golden Dreams
2. No Tears
3. Love Will Tear Us Apart [Joy Division cover]
4. No Doubts
5. In A Dream
6. Kill Me Dearly
7. I Want You
8. Power To Survive
9. Natalie's
10. Kill The Remix

*download it here*

For your previewing pleasure, here's an old dusty "live" clip of "Golden Dreams," a favorite track and DJ staple of mine. Though the clip gives you an idea of what the song sounds like, it doesn't hold a candle to the crispness of the original track.

Bérurier Noir- Concerto Pour Detraqués LP/CD

Here's something a little different for you folks today... Up on the slab is a classic record by French punk band Bérurier Noir, a dirty, politically charged cult band who formed in 1983. Though the band went through several lineup shifts throughout the 1980s, adding and detracting members, the rhythm section remained a cheap, driving drum machine, giving them a more thin and aggressive edge.

The band, who refused to make any sort of profit during their tenure, split in 1989, reforming in 2003 to release a DVD. Since then, the reactivated Bérurier Noir has played several shows in Europe, and released a brand new record in 2006.

This particular release is the band's second album, hailing from 1985. This version was released on CD just a year later, tacking on the Joyeux Merdier 12'' at the end, and kicking off with a previously re-recorded single version of early standout "Nada," the original which appears on their debut record, Macadam Massacre. It would be the fourth version the band had recorded. Here's the breakdown:



Bérurier Noir- Concerto Pour Detraqués LP/CD
1. Nada 84
2. Petit Agité
3. Vivre Libre Ou Mourir
4. Conte Cruel De La Jeunesse
5. Le Renard
6. Les Rebelles
7. Porcherie
8. Commando Pernod
9. Les Éléphants
10. Fils De...
11. Hélène Et Le Sang
12. Il Tua Son Petit Frère
13. La Mère Noël
14. J'Aime Pas La Soupe
15. Vive Le Feu
16. Salut À Toi

*download it here*

Track 1 from Nada 84 7'' (1984)
Tracks 2-12 from Concerto Pour Detraqués LP (1985)
Tracks 13-16 from Joyeux Merdier 12'' (1985)

Noel- Noel LP

Here's a little classic and somewhat shameless synthpop record that's been a fun-filled favorite of mine for some time. The record in question is the debut album from Noel (Noel Pagan), a Cuban-born New Yorker with a powerful voice and some street smart credibility. Debut single "Silent Running" was released in 1987, but it took almost a year for his self-titled debut to appear in more readily available form on 4th and Broadway Records.

On listening, the record recalls mid-period Depeche Mode and various New Beat one-offs, with a more New York freestyle vibe. Though Noel would release a handful of dance mix singles into the '90s, his proper sophomore effort, Hearts on Fire failed to capture the same energy as the debut. He currently collaborates on recordings with the likes of Eddie Arroyo and Eddie Baez.

Without any further ado, here's the details for Noel's self-titled debut.



Noel- Noel LP
1. Silent Morning
2. Fire To Ice
3. To Be With You
4. Out Of Time
5. Change
6. Like A Child
7. Fallen Angel
8. City Streets
9. What I Feel For You

*download it here*




Though I can't embed the official video for "Silent Morning," here's a live performance of the track from 1988.

Choir Invisible- Sea to Shining Sea LP

As promised, here's the second, final, and posthumous record from Choir Invisible, recorded in 1982, but not released until 1984. It's far more bright and synthy then their debut record. I tend to prefer it, but it depends on your take on buzzing synths vs. brooding guitars. Opposite sides of a similar coin, if you will.

Let's cut to the chase, shall we?



Choir Invisible- Sea to Shining Sea LP
1. Grey At Present
2. Questions Never Spoken
3. With Dreams
4. I Walked Away
5. Shared By A Voice
6. Devoted To A Memory

*download it here*

Choir Invisible- Choir Invisible LP

Choir Invisible were a four piece post-punk band hailing from Los Angeles. The band formed in the wake of the Flyboys, a first wave LA punk band, who split after the death of bassist/keyboardist David Wilson.

Lisa Fancher, head of Frontier records (who released the lone Flyboys 12'' in 1980), essentially pieced Choir Invisible together after the Wilson's death. The band grew to local prominence, opening for the likes of Romeo Void, Depeche Mode, and Christian Death in the early 1980s, before releasing their debut record in 1981.

Though the band split shortly after their 1981 tour, a few straggling members recorded a follow up in 1982, which was released two years later on Passport records. I shall upload this one for my next post, but in the meanwhile, here's the info for the band's 1981 self-titled debut.



Choir Invisible- Choir Invisible LP
1. Quiet Place
2. Fatal Dream
3. The Other Room
4. Fixation
5. Chameleon
6. Side To Side
7. Private Life
8. The Key
9. Playing Cards
10. Portrait Of Charles
11. The Distance From...

*download it here*

Ohama- I Fear What I Might Hear LP

Today's post features the 1984 debut LP from Ohama, essentially a one man minimal wave project helmed by Canadian musician Tona W. Ohama, with occasional lyrical contributions by Johannes Halbertsma.

Over the course of three years, Ohama released two LPs and three singles. All of these releases (and more, including the 1986 Ohama Meets Dania LP) have been collected in an impressive 9xCD boxset, which may very well still be available by contact with Minimal Wave's site. Should you dig this release, and should it still be available, I encourage you folks to snap up a copy of the set posthaste! Otherwise, here's the info for the record.



Ohama- I Fear What I Might Hear LP
1. Of Whales
2. Sometimes
3. Feelings
4. Midnite News IV
5. Where Do You Call Home?
6. Midnite News II
7. Body Of Vagrant Waves
8. Part In Peace

*download it here*

Amin-Peck- Complete(?) Discography

After the latest Sequins and Spandex debacle, and failing to track down a skipless version of "My Frames" on my own (many thanks to Veronica once more for fixing up a proper version), I've decided to compile each of the Amin-Peck singles together for any interested parties.

Like most '80s electronic bands, Amin-Peck walked a fine line between italo disco and minimal wave throughout the course of the early 1980s, oftentimes incorporating shameless pop melodies and avant-garde leanings. The band was primarily a three piece (gaining vocalist Giorgio Fiorini to contribute vocals on their final 1984 12'').

As there's no official bio kicking around the net, let's allow the music to speak for itself, shall we? Here's all the proper info:

Amin-Peck- Girls On Me 12'' (1982)
1. Girls On Me
2. Anxiety
3. Coda

Amin-Peck- Love Disgrace 7'' (1982)
1. Love Disgrace
2. Singing In The Wind

Amin-Peck- Suicidal 12''(1983)
1. Suicidal (Disco Version)
2. Suicidal (Instrumental Version)

Amin-Peck- Running Straight 12'' (1984)
1. Running Straight
2. My Frames

*download all four here*

According to a few record collector sites, there are various dub and instrumental remixes of a few of these tracks kicking around, but I am unable to track anything concrete down. Should any of you out there have these rare and elusive remixes, feel free to send them my way and I'll happily post a follow-up. Otherwise, enjoy!

Sequins and Spandex: Parte Tre

Since it's been a regrettably long time since I've made one of these, I am pleased to unveil the latest addition to the Sequins and Spandex series. Unlike the previous installments, which featured a few modern cuts inspired by the original classics, the third in this series of italo, space disco, and hi-nrg dance traxx contains fourteen original tracks, dating from 1980-1987.

I had enough leftovers to make part four (and hell, maybe even a part five) in a few weeks time, so stay tuned! Otherwise, without any further ado, here's the tracklisting:



Sequins and Spandex: Parte Tre
1. Cybernetic Love- Casco
2. The World at Your Disposal- La Grotta
3. When I Let You Down- M & G
4. Bad Passion- Steel Mind
5. Telephone Computer- Crazy Gang
6. Never Ever- Peppermint Lounge
7. Love is Like a Game- Hot Cold
8. 'Cause I Need You, 'Cause I Love You- De De Mo
9. Voyage, Voyage- Desireless
10. Disco Band (Vocal)- Scotch
11. Young Men (Special Radio Version)- Nite Lite
12. Body Heat- Fockewulf 190
13. My Frames- Amin Peck
14. I Wanna Fly Away- Blue Russell

*download it here*

If you're new to the blog or missed the first two editions of Sequins and Spandex, click HERE to nab 'em!



NOTE: If you downloaded this earlier today (10am or so, EST), redownload this version, with a corrected version of the Amin Peck track, courtesy of Veronica!

Šizike- U Zemlji Čuda LP

Once more, sorry for the delay! I keep meaning to start back up with regularity, but this summer has proven to be a busy affair. I just had the honor and pleasure of playing bass for Mark Burgess (of the Chameleons), joined onstage in New York and Philly by some talented local musicians. It was a last minute affair, learning the songs the night before (and sometimes, that day), and playing them as best as we could under the most terrifying of circumstances. Needless to say, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life to date. I presume many readers are familiar with Burgess' work with the Chameleons, but if not, pick some up posthaste! Otherwise, to any readers who were there, both on stage or off- thanks for the good times!

Anyway, on a different note, here's an interesting treat that will hopefully get things back on track around here.

Šizike were a Yugoslavian dance/new wave band, known primarily in their home country for the slinky single "Don't Stop." The band was primarily an offshoot of the Master Scratch Band, who plucked three female vocalists to be the forefront of the project. The MSB played all instruments, while these three sirens provided the vocals for their lone release, 1984's U Zemlji Čuda LP, an interesting and curious anomaly in the new wave spectrum.

The record is primarily a collection of songs, remixed or altered in various forms on the B-side. The project reminds me of a slower and synthier version of Fuzzbox, though obvious differences are notable. A little fun and fancy free...mildly cheesy at times, but oh so satisfying.

That reminds me, I should probably put a rip of the Fuzzbox LP up in full, to flesh out the post I made a ways back, but more on that soon. Here's the details on this fine record:



Šizike- U Zemlji Čuda LP
1. Be-Bop-A-Lula
2. Ponavljačka Pesma
3. Don't Stop
4. Svemirski Čistač
5. Patricia Twist
6. Don't Stop (Remixed)
7. Hula-Hop Disco
8. Tužbalica
9. Čudni Ples
10. Mega-Mix Vol. 1.

*download it here*

To those of you who prefer to hear a track before taking the plunge, you're in luck today. Click below to peep the official video for "Don't Stop."

Turning Shrines- Face of Another 12''

Phew, sorry for the delay folks. Life's been a whirlwind.

To make up for my absence, I've since acquired and ripped the first Turning Shrines 12'' record, released in 1985 on Psychic TV's Temple Records. These four tracks are a bit more catchy than the full length EP I posted a few entries back, but are no less enjoyable, through and through. Click here for the release and more info on Turning Shrines, but otherwise, here's the scoop on this particular gem.



Turning Shrines- Face of Another 12''
1. Face Of Another
2. 1/4 Circle Black
3. Dirt Test
4. Waking Up In The Dirt

*download link removed by request*