NEU! was one of the most influential krautrock bands of all time, and their self-titled debut album has recently turned 50 – just like the Goethe-Institut’s presence in Australia. What better way to celebrate than seeing the band's co-founder Michael Rother on tour in Australia!
Michael Rother started NEU! with Klaus Dinger after they had both briefly been members of electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk. The influence of the duo cannot be overstated – fans include David Bowie, Sonic Youth, Radiohead, Stereolab, Joy Division & New Order, Damon Albarn, Brian Eno, and countless others.
Decades after the end of NEU!, acts like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Iggy Pop still ask Michael Rother to join them on stage for a jam. Another staunch supporter is famous German pop singer Herbert Grönemeier who re-released all NEU! albums on his label Groenland Records. For the anniversary, the label recently released a box set including a tribute album featuring reworks and covers by The National, Idles, Mogwai, New Order, Hot Chip, Yann Tiersen and more.
Sadly, Klaus Dinger passed away in 2008, however Michael Rother kept up the legacy of their unique sound, making a career under his own name through solo albums, many collaborations and consistent touring. Even with so much history around it, his music sounds as fresh as ever to anyone who has a soft spot for psychedelic sounds and repetitive beats.
As the Washington Post put it recently: 'NEU! created a rhythm that’s still beating 50 years later.'
For this tour, Michael Rother will perform with long-time collaborators Hans Lampe on drums (La Düsseldorf), Franz Bargmann on guitar (ex Camera) and Vittoria Maccabruni on electronics & vocals.
Michael Rother + Friends is supported by Goethe-Institut.
Recent Michael Rother live show:
Kraftwerk live in 1971, performing as a trio featuring both NEU! members: Michael Rother & Klaus Dinger:
