Propaganda – A Secret Wish: Deluxe Edition (Salvo)
An extremely welcome reissue from the Salvo label, marking the 25th anniversary of the album’s original release. Needless to say, as is the fashion, it comes with considerable extras: previously unissued remixes, out-takes, 12” mixes courtesy of Trevor Horn, and the much talked about but little heard 20-minute cassette-only version of “Duel”. All of which is very nice to have, but it’s the original 9-song album that really stands out. Particularly the singles, “Dr. Mabuse”, the fore mentioned “Duel”, and “p:Machinery”.

What strikes me instantly, after listening to the album for the first time in two decades, is that it’s aged very well. Considering we’re talking about a record made in the mid-80s by a German synthpop band, signed to ZTT with production overseen by Trevor Horn, it wouldn’t sound out of place on today’s Radio 1. In fact, if you like the idea of an edgier, European Le Roux or Lady Gaga, then A Secret Wish should be on top of your Amazon Wish List.
Rob F.

PROPAGANDA – DR MABUSE

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