The Mekons are a prolific post-punk band that remained underground for most of their career. While they don't have the same name recognition as Gang of Four or Delta 5 they were formed in Leeds around the same time and have been together without interruption since the late 70s.
The huge number of musicians involved results in an ever-changing sound ranging from straight punk to highly experimental conceptual music.
This album is a compilation but even despite that, it's incredible to think that it's the same band throughout. It has the feeling of a post-punk variety hour.
Despite the minimalist nature of the genre there's a playful psychedelia. Songs like "Not a bitterman" combine growling punk bass with echoing vocals and velvet underground guitars. "1st guitarist" is equally psych. "Car-Men" and "I'm so Happy" take the weirdness even further. The album is truly unpredictable.
But then at times the band goes back to straight punk in a Wire like configuration. Like early Wire, and even late for that matter, the record contains over a dozen shorter songs rather than tightly arranged standalone tracks. The album cover cheekily proclaims that there are over 20 great songs in 60 minutes of play time. An open mind is absolutely required to appreciate The Mekons Story.
Even for post-punk it's odd. There are Mark E Smith-ian ramblings, haunting bouts of music concrete, and absolutely no songs I'd call singles. If you enjoy this album you'll definitely get a kick out of Ohio post-punk group Pere Ubu but that review is for another week.
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