die gesunden: s/t

Die Gesunden (translated to 'the healthy ones') was mostly the duo of Mabel Aschenneller and Eschi Rehm (who sadly passed away on November 12, 2008). They were also joined on drums by Thomas Wydler (who later became known for his membership in Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds). Taking influences from Kraftwerk, Roxy Music, and Eno/Bowie (who were coincidentally recording Low in Berlin at this time), Die Gesunden was one of the first Neue Deutsche Welle outfits. The self-titled LP was released in 1982 on Innovative Communication which was the independent record label formed by Klaus Schulze in 1978 after Klaus became very interested in the earliest Berlin Neue Deutsche Welle bands (such as Ideal, etc). Mabel was very involved in the Berlin scene such as promoting local gigs for the early Einstürzende Neubauten in 1981 and shows at the Exxcess club (with shows by the Cure amongst other bands in their infancy) which also inspired the birth of Die Gesunden. Die Gesunden did fairly well around Germany with one of the highlights being a tour in 1981 supporting DAF (Deutsche Amerikanische Freundschaft). The LP is a diverse collection of songs that display a jagged electronic quality showcased throughout with hints of power electronics mixed with synth pop. The opener 'Die Gesunden Kommen' is an upbeat track with bouncing synth leads atop treated percussion with whispered lyrics. The second track 'Leutnant Miller' displays some of the aforementioned power electronics harshness with pleasant electronic melodies and commanding vocals. 'Sometimes/Manchmal' is a slow and minimal track with emotional vocals and mutated synth parts with monotonous tones that are quite entrancing. Overall, the record is a very diverse listen and will surely appeal to fans of early Neue Deutsche Welle (early Der Plan) as well as proto-industrial and experimental new wave. At the same time, it is definitely one of a kind and has no record that it can be directly compared. Contains bonus track of cover of 'Waiting For My Man'. This reissue is presented on high-quality 180 gram opaque 'baby pink' vinyl. Features slight alteration and reinterpretation of the original front cover and redesigned back cover. Limited edition