KILLING JOKE — What's THIS For...! (review)

KILLING JOKE — What's THIS For...! album cover Album · 1981 · Non-Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3.5/5 ·
UMUR
"What's THIS For...!" is the second full-length studio album by UK post-punk/industrial rock act Killing Joke. The album was released through E.G. Records in June 1981, only little over half a year after the release of the band´s eponymously titled debut full-length studio album from October 1980.

There was no reason to wait any longer to release new material though, as the material on "What's THIS For...!" is a natural succession of the post-punk style of the debut album, and in regards to the quality of the material it´s on the same high level as the material featured on the debut album. Killing Joke already had a rather distinct sound this early on. An energetic hypnotic groove, busy basslines (although a completely different sounding artist, I´m hearing references to the bass playing on Japan´s releases), powerful almost tribal influenced drumming, jagged distorted guitar riffs (twisted punk riffs), and Jaz Coleman´s distinct sounding voice and intense shouting vocal delivery. Synths are used too, but only on occasion to enhance atmosphere. An atmosphere that is predominantly bleak. This isn´t happy music and you´ll most likely leave depressed.

Like the debut album "What's THIS For...!" is a self-produced affair, and Killing Joke have managed to create a powerful sound which suits their material perfectly. The hypnotic repetitive nature of the music can sometimes feel a little tedious, but it´s a means to an end and helps build the above mentioned bleak atmosphere. While the tracks aren´t exactly hook laden, there are still catchy moments here and there, which make "What's THIS For...!" an engaging listen throughout. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.
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