What makes Extended Play by Cabaret Voltaire notable?

Extended Play is significant for its early demonstration of industrial and electronic music elements, paving the way for future acts in these genres. The EP received positive critical reception and contributed to Cabaret Voltaire's reputation as pioneers of the experimental scene, influencing subsequent artists in the electronic and post-punk realms. Released in early 1978, Extended Play marked Cabaret Voltaire's first significant recorded output after their formation in 1973, establishing them within the burgeoning post-punk movement. This EP followed their transition from live performances to studio recordings, showcasing their evolving experimental sound that would influence electronic music.

How many songs are on Extended Play?

Extended Play has 4 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

Extended Play

Cabaret Voltaire · 1978

15 min · 4 tracks · electronic music

Industrial rhythms intertwine with surreal samples and disjointed vocals, crafting a disorienting yet captivating soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Do the Mussolini (Headkick!) — This track encapsulates the EP's raw energy, combining provocative lyrical themes with aggressive beats that highlight the group's avant-garde ethos.
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Here She Comes Now — A reimagining of an earlier Velvet Underground track, this version infuses a unique industrial edge, showcasing the band's knack for reinterpretation.
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The Set Up — With its rhythmic experimentation and layered sounds, this track exemplifies Cabaret Voltaire's innovative approach to structure and texture in music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases early industrial sounds with a unique approach, marking its significance in electronic music.

What we noticed

The first track features a repetitive industrial beat layered with disjointed samples that create an unsettling atmosphere.
Tracks two and three introduce more melodic elements, but maintain a stark, mechanical rhythm that contrasts with the surreal soundscapes.
The final track shifts to a more ambient texture, gradually fading out with minimalistic instrumentation.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Talkover 3:22
2 Here She Comes Now 4:30
3 Do the Mussolini (Headkick!) 3:03
4 The Set Up 4:47

What to play next

Listen next

Mix-Up

1979

Go back to

Live at the Y.M.C.A.

Full Cabaret Voltaire discography Where to start with Cabaret Voltaire Artists like Cabaret Voltaire

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