severed heads: city slab horror

ltd repress. City Slab Horror was released in 1985 on UK-based Ink records. The LP, though coming two years after Since the Accident, continues to carry the torch illustrating the evolving transition between experimental structure and loops into the catchy pop hooks that would later define such releases as Rotund for Success. This LP seems to move slightly into darker territory in general with its synth textures and slower tempo tracks but overall has a nice 'continuation' feel from Since the Accident yet with obvious technological evolutions. The opening track 'Spasm' drags the listener down the Sev Head mental rabbit hole instantly with its heady samples and eloquent drum machine rhythm. 'Spitoon Thud' is a rambunctious affair with it's cacophony of samples and percussion. '4.W.D.' is a great sneak peek into the sound of the Sev Heads LPs to come with its treated vocals and pop hooks (perfected on later records such as The Big Bigot). Next to last is the amazing 'Goodbye Tonsils' track which is unstoppably catchy and features more of the creative use of samples which made this group so interesting. Though signed to '80s industrial label icon Nettwerk in North America and often classified in the same vein, these records are not easily definable and actually have a life of their own. Though commonly misclassified with a lot of the late '80s industrial/goth scene (as well as touring with Skinny Puppy at one point), Severed Heads would be more accurately in good company with acts such as Cabaret Voltaire, early Coil, Chris & Cosey (and CTI), and the like. Long out of print and a rarity on the collector's market, it is presented with original repro jacket. Remastered by Tom Ellard from the original source masters. Presented on high-quality 180 gram heavyweight bone white vinyl.