banque allemande: willst du chinese sein...

A couple years ago, this fine label released the debut album by a mysterious Berlin band called Banque Allemande. Trapped in a city more known for dance music than two chord rock 'n' roll, Banque Allemande's live shows were restricted to a few underground spaces and Berlin's subway system. They recorded for themselves but outside of a small circle of friends they were unknowns. Well, now comes album number two, Willst du Chinese sein musst du die ekligen Sachen essen. Like their first, Willst du Chinese mixes marathon riffage with shorter blasts, centering on a two chord fung set to a galloping beat; a sound that brings to mind the Gordons, early Leather Nun, and even Big Black. However, it sounds like our German pals have been listening to a little Velvet Underground too. Like Eddy Current Suppression Ring, Banque Allemande take VU's pop rock side and punk it up a bit. Oh, the Banques also spare a moment or two for getting heavy. This one is a little more diverse than their first album but fans will be pleased, and those new to the band will be searching for the debut. Limited to 400 copies.

Banque Allemande - Schwarz Von Schwarzer Wand (excerpt) by S. S./ Sol Re Sol Records