ÖPNV – +4917635713990

2nd full length of Berlins ‘out of it’ industrial post-punk trio ÖPNV have regressed. But not in the sense of the comic character who gets hit on the head with a hammer and then shits his pants; rather in the sense of a Berlin post-punk band that, with one eye, helplessly observes the band’s internal fluctuation while, with the other eye, processes the big-city hustle of Berlin and transforms what is seen and experienced—using hands and words—into avant-garde art set to self-installed drum-computer beats. I called +4917635713990 to bring the good news that ÖPNV have released a new album, but on the other end of the line I was told to go lick ÖPNV’s ass. They were one step ahead of me. ÖPNV make rudimentary post-punk in the broadest sense, with dangerous bass lines and drum machines. On top of that come two tons of over-spilled synthesizers and subway-driver-esque announcements disguised as vocals. The whole thing is decorated with seemingly stolen children’s instruments and samples from the depths of the heart of Berlin’s underground: the subway, answering machines, and nightlife. My tip for visitors to our beloved capital: don’t make friends there—stay home instead and listen to ÖPNV’s new record!