Laibach, 07.11.23, Lëtzebuerg (LU), Den Atelier

A Unique Sonic Journey Beyond Familiar Genres

Gleich mit drei neuen Veröffentlichungen aus dem Jahre 2023 im Gepäck – der “Love Is Still Alive”-EP, der “Sketches Of The Red Districts”-LP und dem Soundtrack zur finnischen Mond-Nazi-Komödie “Iron Sky: The Coming Race” – machte das umstrittene wie legendäre slowenische Künstler-Kollektiv Laibach im luxemburgischen Den Atelier Station. Verstärkt durch die schwedische Gastsängerin Donna Marina Mårtensson präsentierten die Musiker ihre Kunst in einem Format, das in drei Segmente unterteilt war. Ein 45-minütiges Psychedelic-Set zwischen Space Rock und Country, während dem “Love Is Still Alive” am Stück dargeboten wurde. Ein zweites Set unter dem Titel “War”, bei welchem die Musiker dem klassischen Laibach-Sound zwischen Post Punk, Industrial und EBM huldigten. Und einem Zugabenteil, bei welchem Coverversionen von Leonard Cohen und The Rolling Stones gespielt wurden, bevor Frontmann Milan Fras und Donna Marina Mårtensson zum einem eindrucksvollen Duett ausholten und den Abend mit ihrer aktuellen Single “The Engine Of Survival” ausklingen ließen.

Die Eindrücke des Abends, in Worte gefasst von unserem kolumbianischen Gast-Autoren William Deaquiz.

Laibach, a band that emerged in 1980 in Yugoslavia, now Slovenia, became the surprise of my recent musical experience. Unknown to me before the performance, this group immersed me in a fascinating journey of emotions, blending the classic essence of a Western with futuristic nuances and the intensity of genres like industrial metal, post punk, and darkwave.

From the moment I arrived at the concert venue, I was surprised by the audience, mostly composed of fans over 40 years old, a living testament to Laibach’s legacy since its inception. The first part of the concert evoked the atmosphere of a classic Western but with an unexpected twist: voices and sounds reminiscent of sci-fi, as if Clint Eastwood found himself in space.

The real spectacle began after the first break, taking us on an amazing musical journey that explored darker and more experimental territories. Laibach skillfully blended elements of industrial metal with touches of experimental electronics, creating an immersive sonic experience. The second half of the concert became a carousel of emotions, from moments that incited euphoria and dancing to others thatnprompted reflection, accompanied by visuals that challenged and expanded perception.

In summary, Laibach is much more than a band; it is an intergalactic and post-apocalyptic experience that defies expectations and redefines musical boundaries. This sonic journey, accompanied by captivating visuals, is an experience that immerses you in an unexplored
world, leaving you wondering at the end: What just happened? But undoubtedly, you will have enjoyed every moment of this unique odyssey.

Text: William Deaquiz
Fotos: Prog in Focus

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Rezensionen:
“Love Is Still Alive” (EP) (2023)

Weitere Surftips:
Veranstalter: A-Promotions
Venue: Den Atelier