Mute is one of our greatest labels and its contribution to electronic dance music deserves some kind of lifetime achievement award. In the so far unjustifiable absence of such, it’s given one to itself by commencing the re-reissue of all its singles plus selected album tracks. The first four volumes cover between the label’s birth in 1978, when label boss Daniel Miler needed a outlet to release his own ‘T.V.O.D’ single as The Normal, until 1984 when they were riding high as a major chart force thanks to astutely picking up Depeche Mode and consequently Yazoo. Mute defined the post-punk independent label spirit as Miller started signing artists like Fad Gadget, D.A.F. and Silicon Teens who impressed him with their mischievous electronic foraging before Depeche Mode came in from Essex. Then along came ferocious blues-wailers Nick Cave and the Birthday Party. Since then the label has gone from strength. These first four two-CD volumes [each to be released separately] chronologically represent the 45s, with live tracks and radio sessions on two bonus CDs. It’s not only heaven-sent for Mute obsessives but provides a fascinating glimpse into the label’s growth during a truly exciting period for music as technological developments were embraced by both pop and underground while laying the groundwork for the acid house revolution. Accompanied by extensive notes and visuals, names include the above-mentioned plus Einsturzende Neubauten, Bruce Gilbert, Boyd Rice, Frank Tovey and many obscure delights. A towering monument to one man’s vision, collector’s dream and essential document showing that machines can be fun at the same time as being dangerous.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: KRIS NEEDS
