Red Mecca cover

Red Mecca

Cabaret Voltaire · 1981

40 min · 9 tracks · house · new wave · synth-pop

A gritty amalgamation of industrial noise and hypnotic rhythms that challenges conventional song structure.

Why this album works

Best for
long, immersive listening sessions layered, dense sonic textures dynamic emotional journeys
Context
Released in 1981, 'Red Mecca' marked Cabaret Voltaire's third studio album and followed their influential work on 'Voice of America'. The album represents a pivotal moment in their evolution, as they embraced a more experimental sound while laying groundwork for the burgeoning electronic and industrial music scenes.
If you like
house, new wave, synth-pop

Red Mecca is an album by Cabaret Voltaire, released in 1981. A gritty amalgamation of industrial noise and hypnotic rhythms that challenges conventional song structure. 'Red Mecca' is notable for its critical reception, often cited as a landmark album in the industrial genre. It influenced subsequent artists and movements, particularly within the realms of electronic body music and post-punk aesthetics, earning praise from publications like NME and The Wire for its innovative approach. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Red Mecca sound like?

A gritty amalgamation of industrial noise and hypnotic rhythms that challenges conventional song structure. Rooted in house and new wave.

What makes Red Mecca by Cabaret Voltaire notable?

'Red Mecca' is notable for its critical reception, often cited as a landmark album in the industrial genre. It influenced subsequent artists and movements, particularly within the realms of electronic body music and post-punk aesthetics, earning praise from publications like NME and The Wire for its innovative approach. Released in 1981, 'Red Mecca' marked Cabaret Voltaire's third studio album and followed their influential work on 'Voice of America'. The album represents a pivotal moment in their evolution, as they embraced a more experimental sound while laying groundwork for the burgeoning electronic and industrial music scenes.

Who is Red Mecca for?

Red Mecca works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, layered, dense sonic textures and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Red Mecca?

Red Mecca has 9 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Tracklist

9 tracks·40:08

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

  • 1 A Touch of Evil Standout 3:11
  • 2 Sly Doubt Standout 4:59
  • 3 Landslide 2:08
  • 4 A Thousand Ways 10:35
  • 5 Red Mask 6:54
  • 6 Split Second Feeling 3:47
  • 7 Black Mask Standout 3:19
  • 8 Spread the Virus 3:40
  • 9 A Touch of Evil (reprise) 1:33

Release Date

January 1, 1981

Genre

new wave, synth-pop

More albums in new wave

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

40 min 8 sec