Formed in England in 1978 and redefining the term ‘uncompromising’, Killing Joke really took the sound of the British post-punk world somewhere it hadn’t been before.
With their tough, aggressive sound, they have also inspired a multitude of bands that have followed over the decades, such as Lamb Of God, Korn, and Rammstein. The track “Wardance” still sounds like it was recorded yesterday, such is its ferocity and anger.
The Singles Collection 1979-2012 is a staggering document of the way that this band have shaped the evolution of music over time.
Nowadays, the band features a revolving lineup, with original members, singer Jeremy “Jaz” Coleman and guitarist Kevin “Geordie” Walker ensuring the band remain a confrontational act that really challenge the listener on both a sonic and personal level.
Coleman possesses a voice that can freeze your blood; such is its intensity and power. Couple that with the sonic mayhem the rest of the band, and you have something utterly unique that will divide people wildly.
What is truly remarkable about the band is that, with their latter material, the fire in the collective belly still burns as bright as it did in the early part of their career. Recently, they put on some utterly blistering shows in our country, of which many punters are already making the ‘gig of the year’ call.
This is an utterly essential purchase for those who want to discover one of the cornerstones of what has helped shape and mould the music that they have held close to their hearts for the better part of four decades.
