Description

Borghesia – Resistance – Cassette

Borghesia is a band from Slovenia that formed in 1982 and is noted for their provocative and politically charged approach to music, particularly within the electronic and industrial genres. The group is known for its pioneering use of multimedia and video art in their performances, reflecting the politically tumultuous environment of the former Yugoslavia during their early years.

Borghesia is a Slovenian electronic music / rock music group, created in Ljubljana in 1982. The band was formed by members of the alternative theatre group Theatre FV-112/15. Borghesia created its aesthetics using the imagery of prohibited, tabooed and repressed. Their sound is often compared to that of other groups in the period such as D.A.F., Manufacture and more notably Front 242, whom many cite as the chief instigators of the Electronic Body Music label used to describe such music.

Released in 1989, Resistance is one of Borghesia’s most significant works, capturing the essence of their artistic and political engagement. The album features a mix of industrial sounds, dark electronic beats, and spoken-word performances, often incorporating critical and subversive lyrics that reflect the band’s deep political engagement. ‘Resistance’ is emblematic of the late 1980s industrial scene, characterized by its harsh sonic landscapes and dystopian themes.

Resistance showcases Borghesia’s blend of industrial music with electronic dance influences. The tracks often feature heavy use of synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers, combined with aggressive vocals and politically charged lyrics.

Resistance was well-received within the industrial and alternative music communities for its bold thematic content and innovative sound. The album helped to solidify Borghesia’s reputation as a band unafraid to tackle heavy political subjects and experiment with new musical ideas. It is considered a significant work in the context of Eastern European rock and electronic music, particularly because it came from a region that was not widely recognized in the global music scene at the time.

Borghesia’s Resistance remains an important album for understanding the intersection of music and political activism during the late 20th century. The band’s use of multimedia and commitment to social and political issues set them apart from many of their contemporaries. The album is a testament to the power of music as a form of resistance and has inspired many artists in the genres of industrial and electronic music.

Resistance by Borghesia is more than just an industrial music album; it is a powerful statement about defiance, autonomy, and the human spirit. For fans of the genre, and those interested in music that pushes the boundaries of both sound and political expression, Resistance offers a compelling and profound listening experience. It serves as a reminder of the role artists can play in challenging the status quo and inspiring change.

Borghesia went on several Europe-wide concert tours, mainly in 1988-91, which were reviewed in large music magazines in England, Germany etc, like NME, Melody Maker, New Life, Zillo. They released four albums on Play It Again Sam, one of the more important indie labels, which were also licensed to Wax Trax in the USA and Canada. Further interviews and articles in the magazines above. Aldo Ivancic later formed the band Bast, and is famous in the Slovenian music scene today as a producer.

Borghesia together with Laibach were prominent representatives of Slovenian alternative pop music, and topped the bill on the compilation albums Trans Slovenia Express, released on Mute Records. Borghesia live show in Gothenburg, Sweden in October 1988 was the subject of an hour long broadcast on Swedish national radio network, on the show P3 Live.

Wax Trax Records

Song List
Theme One (Resistance Mix)
Message
If
Conflict
October
Rumours
Young Prisoners
Discipline
The Little Man (Mali Covek)
Pias
Police Hour
More Resistance