Blixa Bargeld

Prepare to be inspired as we bring you an electrifying conversation with Blixa Bargeld, the visionary behind Einstürzende Neubauten and a former pivotal figure in Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Discover Blixa's groundbreaking approach to music, from the inventive use of found objects to his rigorously disciplined writing techniques. He shares fascinating, lesser-known anecdotes involving music legends like Jimmy Page and John Lydon, all while combining his signature intensity with moments of humor and profound insight.

Journey with us as we unravel the vibrant musical connections between Berlin and New York, delving into how the unique conditions in both cities fueled a wave of artistic experimentation. Learn about the impact of urban decay and affordability on Berlin's underground culture, drawing parallels to New York's creative flux during the same era. We also explore Neubauten’s latest album "Rampen," delving into its live improvisational essence and the playful genre term "Alien Pop Music," emphasizing how creative constraints can spark unparalleled innovation.

Lastly, we dive deep into Blixa's cryptic and non-linear writing style, understanding how he values the resonance of his work, even if it touches just one person. Blixa reveals his approach to improvisation and how the band's music serves as a medium for intellectual and artistic exploration. Through personal stories about Berlin's music scene in the 70s and 80s and his evolving writing process over the decades, this episode offers an intimate and compelling look into the mind of an avant-garde musical legend.

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Listen and buy Einstürzende Neubauten’s “Rampen” here.

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Lost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-Technica

Paul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.

Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. 

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Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins