Grotesque (After the Gramme)

Description

Grotesque is an album by the band The Fall released in 1980 on the Rough Trade Records label. It marks a key period for the band, featuring an expanded lineup and characteristic nervous energy. The album comes out just after the iconic single Totally Wired. The drumming of the very young Paul Hanley (15 years old), brother of bassist Steve Hanley, enhances the band's frenetic sound. The track Pay Your Rates opens the album with chaotic intensity, blending buzzing guitars and the authoritative voice of Mark E. Smith. New Face in Hell offers a strange and danceable take on post-punk, driven by a kazoo. The album also marks the first production collaboration with Mayo Thompson. It also introduces illustrations by Suzanne Smith. A vinyl reissue was released by Superior Viaduct.