Today’s video of the day is The Shamen – “The Thin Wall” released in 1990.
The Shamen, formed in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1985, transitioned from psychedelic indie rock to pioneering “indie-dance” by 1987. Their first album as The Shamen, “Drop,” marked the beginning of this evolution. Inspired by sampling and electronic beats, the band underwent lineup changes, embracing a new sonic direction. “Jesus Loves Amerika” (1988) showcased their fusion of electronic-rock, setting the stage for their relocation to London and collaborations with electronic pioneers like Paul Oakenfold.
The release of “Phorward” signaled a complete embrace of electronic sounds, leading to the internationally charting album “En-Tact” in 1990. Tragically, the untimely death of bassist Will Sin during the filming of “Move Any Mountain” added a poignant layer to their success. Following a hiatus to mourn their loss, The Shamen returned with “Boss Drum,” a platinum-selling album featuring hits like “Ebeneezer Goode” and “Pro>gen.” Despite continued releases in the mid-1990s with albums like “Axis Mutatis” and “Hempton Manor,” their popularity waned.
Nevertheless, The Shamen left a significant mark with fifteen hits in the British singles chart, including five top-ten entries. “Ebeneezer Goode” stood out for its transparent drug content, while “Pro>gen” (later “Move Any Mountain”) captivated audiences with its widescreen rave sounds. In the end, The Shamen’s journey epitomizes the evolution of electronic music in the late ’80s and early ’90s, cementing their place as influential pioneers in the genre’s landscape.
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