Big Black

Big Black was an American noise rock band led by Steve Albini, active in the 1980s and known for abrasive guitars, confrontational lyrics and a prominent drum machine.

Formed and led by Steve Albini; early members and contributors mentioned in reviews include Jeff Pezzati (early bass), Santiago Durango (guitar) and Dave Riley (bass on Atomizer). The band used a drum machine as a defining element. Steve Albini later worked in projects Rapeman and Shellac. Atomizer (1986) is widely cited in reviews as the group's masterpiece.

Big Black is consistently reviewed as a seminal 1980s noise/post-hardcore band led by Steve Albini. Atomizer is frequently called a masterpiece; the group's sound is abrasive, drum-machine driven and influential. Reviews highlight tracks such as "Kerosene", "Bad Houses" and the cover of Kraftwerk's "The Model".

For:Fans of abrasive 1980s underground music, noise rock and post-hardcore.