Auto-Da-Fé

by John Bush The beginning of a more organized approach for SPK material, Auto Da-Fe presents an intriguing industrial-disco fusion, reminiscent of prime contemporary material by Cabaret Voltaire and DAF. An assortment of synthesizer stabs and progressive beats are the backing for lyrics best explained by titles like "Retard" and "Heart That Breaks." Although fans probably thought of Auto Da-Fe as an unconscionable crossover attempt, it's still quite experimental in retrospect. Mute's CD reissue of the album also includes tracks from SPK's 1978 single "Surgical Penis Klinik," 1979's Meat Processing Sektion EP, and 1983's Dekompositions EP.