Tax rate EU

Default:19

Supplier EU

375 Media

Total Cap

Format detail

Colour details

Discogs ID

Limited edition

Colour

Format Music EU

Extended format

Extended format: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Download code

Download code: No

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Release date

2004-01-08

Format multiplier

Catalogue number

5840282

UPC / Barcode

5014436407024

Artist

Xmal Deutschland

Label EU

Genre EU

Alternative / Modern

The influential 4AD label was started in 1980 by music enthusiasts Ivo Watts-Russell and Peter Kent with financial help from Beggars Banquet, whose record store chain the pair worked for. Originally called Axis, they released an initial series of four 7" singles before finding out that the name Axis was already being used by another label. They quickly came up with a new name, 4AD, inspired by typography on a flyer announcing their releases. Under Ivo Watts-Russell's guidance, drawing influence from other UK indie labels such as Beggars Banquet, Postcard Records and Factory, 4AD quickly established a unique identity thanks to both the cover designs of Vaughan Oliver/v23 and the label's unique numbering system.

In 1992, 4AD entered a highly publicized Stateside distribution deal with Warner Bros. Records, opening offices in New York headed up by Robin Hurley. The label was largely run from California for most of the decade after Ivo Watts-Russell moved to Los Angeles in the mid-90s. In November 1999 it was announced that Martin Mills had taken over as chairman and relocated its HQ to London.

Decoding their unique numbering system reveals various formats like mail-order only releases (4AD), LPs (CAD), MP3 downloads (EAD), posters (FAD), videos (VAD) and more. The numeric portion of their catalog numbers

Xmal Deutschland formed in Hamburg, Germany in 1980 as an all-girl band in the punk circuit. They gained recognition with their first single "Großstadtindianer" and later signed with 4AD Records after a successful UK tour opening for Cocteau Twins. Their debut album "Fetisch" and singles like "Qual" and "Incubus Succubus II" made waves on the UK Independent charts. Despite using German lyrics, they found success internationally. The band went through lineup changes but continued to release albums like "Tocsin", "Matador", and "Viva". However, their last release was the 1989 LP "Devils", which showed a shift towards mainstream pop. Xmal Deutschland disbanded in 1990 after a few scattered live appearances.

Xmal Deutschland's album "Tocsin (Reissue)" was released by 4AD/Beggars Group/Indigo, offering a captivating blend of post-punk and darkwave music. Originally released in 1984, this reissue brings back the band's haunting melodies and ethereal vocals for both longtime fans and new listeners to enjoy.

The album features a mesmerizing collection of tracks that showcase Xmal Deutschland's unique sound, characterized by atmospheric synths, driving basslines, and powerful drumbeats. Songs like "Augen-Blick" and "Polarlicht" draw listeners in with their brooding intensity, while tracks such as "Matador" and "Reigen" demonstrate the band's ability to create dynamic and evocative music.

With its reissue on 4AD/Beggars Group/Indigo, "Tocsin" allows listeners to immerse themselves in Xmal Deutschland's darkly enchanting world once again. The album's timeless appeal lies in its combination of moody instrumentals and enigmatic lyrics, making it a must-have for fans of post-punk and gothic music.

Tocsin

Music EU

Discover Tocsin by Xmal Deutschland on 4AD/Beggars Group/Indigo. Reissued album blending post-punk and darkwave music. Atmospheric synths, haunting vocals.