KILLING JOKE

Since Geordie Walker passed away last year I’ve been wanting to pay tribute to Killing Joke, a crucial band for me. There are no other bands sounding like Killing Joke, and part of that is because Geordie’s guitar playing, his sound and style are recognizable in seconds, and that’s the holy grail for an artist.

«Extremities, Dirt and Various Repressed Emotions» (1990) is probably one of their least acclaimed albums but it has a unique oppressive vibe that sets it apart. I’ve always been crazy about «Struggle»: a weird song full of contrasts and driven by a frantic tribal drum beat loaded with lots of percussion arrangements that made a perfect choice for a drum cover. Hands down to Martin Atkins (Ministry, NIN, Public Image Ltd) for bringing this brilliant linear drum pattern that emulates a pummeling double kick.

In memory of Geordie Walker & Paul Raven.