Grauzone, Grauzone (side A)

Swiss-German trio Grauzone are of course best remembered for their German club hit, "Eisbaer", which does not appear on their self-titled album.  Stephan Eicher is also remembered in France for his 90s pop albums that cross French cabaret traditions with Matthew Sweet-tinged power-pop.  Grauzone, from 1981, features a similar palette to Eisbaer but less overt melodies.  Some songs are more accessible and at times almost sentimental, while others feature a harshness and aggression that hints at early Cabaret Voltaire.  Everything uses a palette of analog electronics alongside muddy recordings of electric guitar and vocals.  The low-end is nicely defined and the general balances are great.  The distinctive and blurry cover images remain incredibly distinctive even as they reflect their age.