Reviewed by Tim Lawler
It is now 2007, 23 years since the inception of KMFDM, and they show no signs of stopping! On August 21st, KMFDM releases their latest opus “Tohuvabohu”. “Tohuvabohu”, an Old Testament word meaning “wild and chaotic” is a blistering example of why KMFDM have stayed strong and true to form throughout the years. The opening track, “Superpower” is a prime example of why, after 23 years, KMFDM have such a strong and loyal fan base. Earlier this year, KMFDM set up a phone line and invited their fans to call and leave a message, telling them – “What does KMFDM do for you?” After sifting though these numerous messages, KMFDM inserted their favorites into the track, making a handful of their fans part of KMFDM history! As the album progresses, we are treated to such standout tracks as “Looking For Strange”, “Headcase”, “Spit or Swallow” and the title track “Tohuvabohu”. Each of these tracks exemplifies the guitar heavy and drum beat driven sound that KMFDM fans have come to know as “The Ultra Heavy Beat”. Furthermore, including at least one track on the album in German seems to now be a standard practice. “Saft Und Kraft” is that track. Since I don’t know German, I can’t tell you what they are saying. What I can tell you, is that musically this track is somewhat reminiscent of an earlier track “A Drug against War”, from their 1993 album “Angst” which is something that may help in making “Saft Und Kraft” a fan favorite. But what would an album be without a cover song. In true industrial fashion, KMFDM has put their own spin on “Los Ninos Del Parque”. “Los Ninos Del Parque” was originally done circa 1982, by the German group “Liasons Dangereuses”, who pioneered what, came to be known as electronic body music. Overall, “Tohuvabohu” is an album that never really lets up and is sure to impress even the most die hard KMFDM fan. I know it sure as hell impressed me, but then again my opinion is somewhat biased, I have KMFDM on the brain!
