Various ‎– The Tyranny Of The Beat - Original Soundtracks From The Grey Area

This is an absolutely fascinating way to get yourself started into abstract/industrial music of the late 70s/early 80s (exluding Can, whose track is a good bit older). SPK delivers some dark gothic ambience, much preferable to their later synth-pop stuff for Nettwerk. Throbbing Gristle is pain, as expected. Cabaret Voltaire, the longest lasting and possibly best of the Industrial bands, gets things moving with their trademark make-you-dance while disturbing you sound. DAF gives some insight into where EBM really came from, as do Die Krupps on possibly the most surprising track for anyone who's ever heard their more recent stuff. We also get absolute classics from Neubauten and Fad Gadget, who delivers the most charmingly revelation of the ridiculousness of industrial club culture before most of its current denizens were born. The more "rock"-esque acts serve as the completion of the lesson of how current industrial and experimental music evolved, the best offering being from Wire. Fans of the Birthday Party may be disappointed by predecessor The Boys Next Door, who have yet to realize their power. Overall, a great record for newcomers as well as anyone looking for some standout tracks from all the favorites.