The Ever-Evolving Journey of Stephen Mallinder and Cabaret Voltaire
A Forward-Thinking Approach to Music
Stephen Mallinder, cofounder of the pioneering UK electronic group Cabaret Voltaire, embodies a relentless drive forward, much like a shark constantly swimming. For over five decades, since the band’s inception in Sheffield, Mallinder has embraced innovation and change, arguably refusing to linger in the past. Surprisingly, he admits to never consciously listening to any of his influential group’s output after it is released.
Mallinder reflects, “I’m one of those weird people where when we made music, up until the point of release, it was mine. But for every Cabs record that we’ve ever done, the moment the record becomes released, I never listen to it again.” This unique perspective reveals his understanding that once music is released, it transcends the individual and belongs to the audience.
A Legacy of Influence
Cabaret Voltaire’s legacy is far-reaching, impacting a myriad of genres such as techno, electro, EBM, acid house, industrial, and post-punk throughout their active years from 1973 to 1994. Their innovative sound and method have positioned them as a major influence on contemporary musicians, with notable names like Trent Reznor and Skinny Puppy openly acknowledging their debt to the band’s work.
While Mallinder maintains a forward-looking approach, the pervasive influence of Cabaret Voltaire is hard to overlook. He finds humor in the rare moments when he accidentally stumbles upon his own music, often expressing surprise at his unrecognized role: “I’ll go, ‘This track is really good. What is it?’ and people will go, ‘It’s you, you dickhead.’”
The Revitalization of Cabaret Voltaire
In an unexpected turn, after more than three decades away from the stage, Mallinder reunited with original band member Chris Watson to embark on a farewell tour of Cabaret Voltaire. This resurgence followed a sold-out series of shows in the UK, seen as both a test of their audience’s loyalty and an opportunity to revive the band’s mission.
Reflecting on this decision, Mallinder reveals, “They were really just to test the water because we had no idea.” The emotional connection forged between the band and their fans during the performances reaffirmed the relevance of their music. “We could tell straight away that it was working,” he notes.
A Rich Emotional Experience
Mallinder’s recent gigs have been poignant reminders of the long journey the band has taken. “When I came off, I was quite emotional… to see people there and play some of those songs, which are familiar to them, it was quite moving,” he expresses after a show in Seattle. Such moments highlight the deep bond shared between the artists and their audience.
The performances, characterized by a journey through various eras of the band’s discography—from the experimental sounds of their 1978 debut to the house-infused tracks of 1990’s Groovy, Laidback and Nasty—demonstrate a dedication to authentically reconstructing their classic pieces. “We built all the music back up from scratch with the original, now-vintage tech,” Mallinder says, emphasizing the care taken to ensure their work resonates with contemporary listeners.
Paying Tribute and Moving Forward
While the resurgence of Cabaret Voltaire is bittersweet, it serves as an opportunity to honor the memory of fellow founding member Richard Kirk, who continued the project as a solo act until his passing in 2021. Mallinder believes that this farewell tour provides closure, allowing them to respect their shared history. “I thought it was respectful that the Cabs has a narrative arch. I thought it needed a final chapter,” he explains.
Despite the emotional weight of this journey, Mallinder maintains a clear outlook on the future. “I think I’ll be ready to move on. It will be quite emotional… I’m really enjoying it,” he states. His commitment to ensuring the band’s legacy does not fade into obscurity underscores the importance of meaningful endings in creative careers.
Upcoming Performances
For fans eager to experience the revitalized Cabaret Voltaire, the band will take the stage alongside I Speak Machine on May 10 at the Summit in Denver. This show is notable not just for the music but for the emotional culmination of Mallinder’s journey in a city where memories and new experiences will intertwine.
Through these performances, Mallinder and Cabaret Voltaire invite both long-time fans and new listeners alike to celebrate a musical history that continues to evolve, reminding us all of the timelessness of artistic expression.
