The Sick Man Of Europe – S/T [IMPORT Red Vinyl] – New LP

Emerging from London’s underground music scene, The Sick Man Of Europe is distinctly monochrome in its outlook. Each note counts in this climate – economical but played with absolute precision and conviction. Propelled forward by machines and seeking solace in repetition. There are echoes of the post-punk and European art rock pioneers at the cusp of the 80s, but re-tooled for the present. The same fears. Looking for answers or something to believe in, but finding more questions in an age of absolutes.

Minimal, but with a strong eye for the right detail - on the eponymous debut album, that eye is focussed firmly on the battle between the internal and the external. TSMOE draws on the tensions between human identity, technological advancement and the pursuit of meaning in the modern world. The Sick Man Of Europe name connects the current post-Brexit landscape to the austerity of Thatcherite Britain and the social conditions that shaped the likes of Bauhaus and Joy Division. These are touchstones for TSMOE, but the influence and discipline of Neu!, Suicide and Swans are just as intrinsic to the sound. Produced as a reaction to previous musical projects, TSMOE was looking for clarity and complete control in its creative endeavours. It’s consciously anti-rock in its recorded approach - no low-end bass guitar, minimal effects and no live drums. Dedication to the craft of focused song writing rather than attempting to follow current production trends.

Written, recorded & performed by The Sick Man Of Europe 

Mixed & mastered by David Forcier

Front cover & label photos by Bella Keery
Design & layout by Robin Roche