Suicide - Suicide (1978)
Suicide’s self-titled album Suicide is an album that marked a revolutionary step in the way keyboards were implemented in rock compositions. Inspired by the violence of the punk movement and the energy of rockabilly, the arrangements on Suicide are dangerous anthems of anarchy that encourage rebellion and evoke a Nietzschian sense of empowerment.
The fantastic punk rhythms of Ghost Rider, Rocket USA and Johnny are compositions that rebirth the iconic American rebel of the fifties. Martin Rev’s keyboard, backed up by Alan Vega’s ghostly vocals are together so intimidating that their arrangements can still sound frightening thirty years later. However there are also moments, such as Cheree, Girl, and Keep Your Dreams where themes of love and happiness are introduced very effectively.
Like a lot of albums from this period, the record climbs to a dramatic height on Frankie Teardrop, a story of a man who murders his wife and child. This is a composition illustrated so intensely that it is a testament to the power of Suicide’s music, and remains one of the most unsettling and disturbing aural experiences ever. Suicide is an excellent punk album, and one that will continue to intoxicate its listeners for decades to come. Note: The 2002 reissue of this album does not retain the original track listing, and also adds some bonus tracks. Make sure you remedy the song listing to the original 1978 version, as it makes a huge amount of difference.
- Jim Harris
