Neu Klang: The Definitive History of Krautrock

Christoph Dallach's Neu Klang offers a fascinating and insightful exploration into the unique and adventurous sonic landscape forged by German bands like Can, Neu!, and Kraftwerk in post-war 1960s Germany – a genre now widely recognised as the influential blueprint for much of modern rock music, affectionately dubbed Krautrock. As Dallach reveals, the stream of creative admirers and inheritors of this sound, from early champions like David Bowie and Iggy Pop onwards, has only continued to expand.

In Neu Klang, Dallach wisely chooses to let the pioneers speak for themselves. Through a series of interviews with the key figures who shaped this groundbreaking musical movement, he crafts a compelling oral history that transcends the individual narratives of each band. Their collective voices paint a vivid picture of a specific time and place, revealing the cultural and societal forces that contributed to this truly original sound.

The book delves beyond mere band biographies, offering a deeper understanding of the creative impulses, experimental spirit, and often unconventional approaches that defined Krautrock. By allowing the musicians to share their experiences and perspectives directly, Dallach provides an authentic and engaging account of how these bands forged a new musical language that would resonate with artists across the globe for decades to come.

For anyone interested in the evolution of rock music, the spirit of musical innovation, or the cultural history of post-war Germany, Neu Klang offers a valuable and absorbing read. It's a testament to the enduring influence of a truly original musical movement, told directly by the individuals who made it happen. This is more than just a history of Krautrock; it's an exploration of how a unique cultural moment birthed a sound that continues to inspire.