NEU!, a pioneering force in the Krautrock movement, was formed in Düsseldorf, Germany, in 1971 by drummer Klaus Dinger and guitarist Michael Rother following their departure from an early lineup of Kraftwerk. The band's name, which translates to "new" in English, was a nod to their avant-garde approach to music, which sought to break away from traditional song structures and embrace experimental sounds. NEU!'s influence can be traced through genres ranging from punk to ambient music, with their propulsive, minimalist rhythms and innovative use of technology.
NEU!'s self-titled debut album, released in 1972, is a cornerstone of the Krautrock genre. It introduced the world to their signature style, motorik—a ceaseless, driving beat that became synonymous with the band. Following with "NEU! 2" in 1973 and "NEU! 75" in 1975, the band explored the extremes of their sound, from the ambient to the raucous. Although they disbanded after the release of "NEU! 75," NEU! continued to influence countless musicians and remained a touchstone in experimental music. A posthumous release, "NEU! '86," saw the light in 2010 and showcased material recorded in the mid-80s that had previously been unreleased. Their influence has been further cemented by contemporary remixes and tributes from artists across the musical spectrum, celebrating NEU!'s indelible impact on modern music.
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