Liquid Liquid emerged from New York City's vibrant Downtown scene in 1981. Formed by drummer Scott Hartley, bassist Richard McGuire, vocalist Sal Principato and marimba player Dennis Young, the group cut their teeth in underground clubs and street art circles before solidifying their trailblazing style—a fusion of irresistible basslines, junkyard percussion and urgent, free-flowing lyrics. Their three EPs, all originally released on legendary 99 Records, would heavily influence dance-oriented indie rock of the early aughts (LCD Soundsystem, DFA Records et al.).
Their eponymous debut establishes Liquid Liquid's uncompromising vision, from its startling black-and-white sleeve design to the minimalist grooves found within. While Principato's striking pitch-shifted shouts on "Bell Head" lead hypnotic circular rhythms, "Rubbermiro" brings in dub-inflected melodica and Richard Edson (Sonic Youth, Konk) on trumpet, closing appropriately in a locked-groove.
