"Gothics” - a time before the word goth had even taken shape - believed in the do-it-yourself punk ethos that anyone could pick up an instrument. Gray clouds were starting to form and in the unlikely city of Hamburg, a brazen and haunting gang of five women formed Xmal Deutschland. As any true punk would, Xmal Deutschland’s members Caro May, Rita Simon, Manuela Rickers, Fiona Sangster and Anja Huwe, started the band despite any previous musical experience.
Punk’s independence from the stiff grip of tradition allowed the band to find solace in anti-establishment art and music, far from the conventions of the past. With their peacocked hair and thick kohl-lined eyes, Xmal Deutschland’s music retained both a restlessness and delicacy, transcending any confines of the “Neue Deutsche Welle” movement (much like their colleagues and friends DAF and Einstürzende Neubauten) with the release of the “Incubus Succubus”single in 1982. It instantly became a post-punk classic. The guitar’s buzz ransacks through the melody as the ghoulish primitiveness of Huwe’s voice teases that maybe, just maybe, she is the nightmarish creature of which to be aware. The b-sides, “Zu Jung Zu Alt” and “Blut Ist Liebe,” keep strict militaristic dance beats as they teem in agitation.
supported by 20 fans who also own “Incubus Succubus”
It's uncanny just how good Actors is at emulating that Post-Punk synth sound from my younger days.
Each listen just gets better and better. I feel slightly ashamed for not having heard this album until a few short days ago. modestwriggles
supported by 20 fans who also own “Incubus Succubus”
Stunning album and artist. Dark love. The best dark vibes in genre. I prefer the first works because they are darker than the last. We're waiting for her come back. Get well soon. raulmori
Layering guitars and saxes over synths and drum machines, this Oakland duo's darkwave is as melodically potent as it is texturally rich. Bandcamp New & Notable Feb 1, 2024
Producer/songwriter Benjamin Schurr blends the medieval with the industrial in Rush, writing harrowing songs with a mystical aura. Bandcamp New & Notable May 13, 2023
supported by 19 fans who also own “Incubus Succubus”
I've always enjoyed Boy Harsher but I don't think they ever really clicked in my brain until I watched The Runner. Now I can't get enough. Gordon Skramzy (Nathan)