Matthew Rothenberg | The Che Underground

Noise 292: “Sister Ray”

January 1, 2011July 2, 2008 by Mmrothenberg

Performing at the Che Cafe Nov. 17, 1983 (with Hair Theatre and 11 Sons), Noise 292 pays homage to two of its bedrock influences, covering the Velvet Underground’s epic “Sister Ray” and throwing in a few stylings from Joy Division’s version for good measure. (Check out Kristin Martin and me tearing into the “Good night” vocals at the end, à la mode d’Ian Curtis!)

“My first memory of witnessing a Noise 292 show has you screaming your ass off during a performance of ‘Sister Ray,’ incredibly cathartic and tribal,” writes Dave Fleminger. “I’d never seen anything like it … way scarier and more musically violent than Fairmont Hall fare. Ear-punishing.

Noise 292: “The Assassin”

January 1, 2011June 15, 2008 by Mmrothenberg

Here’s a prime example of the Noise 292 dark cabaret — and of Kristin Martin’s power as a singer and storyteller.

Recorded July 29, 1983 (when we performed with the Answers and Hair Theatre at the Che Cafe),
“The Assassin” showcases Noise 292 at its most atmospheric — it’s another facet of the modernist vibe of “Chanson Dada.” (Check out how the drums and scrap-metal percussion complement Kristin’s haunting vocals and David Rives’ spooky guitar work!)

Kristin Martin (rhythm guitar, vocals); David Rives (lead guitar); Hobie Hodge (trash percussion); Joanne Norris (drums); Matthew Rothenberg (bass).

Listen to it now!