Zucker by HOLZKOPFKINDER: Album Review

by Gabe Finch February 17, 2023

February 17, 2023

Zucker by HOLZKOPFKINDER: Album Review

Stony Sugarskull, a Berlin/LA-based musician, and German producer LeLeander have collaborated on their first album, ‘Zucker’, a compilation of 10 songs that takes listeners on a fascinating voyage through a sonic environment that most people wouldn’t dare to explore. Featuring Monika Demmler’s eerie and otherworldly vocals, the album is a wonderful combination of ghostly sounds and monochromatic rhythms, suggestive of Roni Size DJing in an underground Berlin S&M sex dungeon.

The album opens with ‘Bentlej’, a tune that quickly sets the tone for what’s to follow. The rhythmic music is almost trance-like, while Demmler’s vocals slash through it like a Bowie knife. ‘Zeit’ follows, and it’s another great tune that highlights LeLeander’s producing abilities. The mix of creepy noises and throbbing rhythms generates a sensation of discomfort that keeps the listener on edge. ‘The Beat Gogo’ distinguishes itself owing to its more upbeat and danceable character. The song has an unmistakable funky groove, and it’s easy to imagine it being played in a dark club in the early hours of the morning. ‘Wachsblume’ is a notable piece that contains an eerie melody and Demmler’s mysterious voice. ‘Telefon Skit’ contains a spoken-word interlude that adds another layer of complexity to the record. The spoken-word portion is strange and unnerving, contributing to the overall tone of the record. ‘Future Baby’ is a notable song where distorted vocals meet erratic pulsing music. The album concludes with ‘Hittenstein’, a tune that is as eerie as it is lovely.

Overall, it’s safe to say that HOLZKOPFKINDER made an album that takes listeners on a voyage through dark and fascinating worlds.