Search - David J :: Etiquette of Violence

Esteem deserved for a David J classic.

05/09/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album remains the essential David J solo work. With a sound expanding on his previous work with Bauhaus, especially the prefiguring Who Killed Mister Moonlight?, Etiquette is also touched with a wit reminscent of, but darker than J's work with the Jazz Butcher, especially evident in the cutting Joe Orton's Wedding. Common J themes, e.g. musician poised ambivalently on threshold of success, combined with brilliant poignancy and bleak sensuality define the album as a David J classic."

Intelligent Music

adawnrae | Portland, OR | 03/06/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Etiquette Of Violence is one of the most fascinating albums I've heard. Yes, it is young and obviously so. Yes, it is a developing style, one that is stripped down to its essential elements. Previous reviewers have a point, if you are looking for a solo version of Bauhaus or Love and Rockets, you are likely to be disappointed. If that is what you want, let me recommend Daniel Ash's solo work. If, on the other hand, you are interested in hearing David J, specifically, and what he brings to those bands, Etiquette Of Violence is a good place to start looking.



David J doesn't expend much energy referencing other music, even that which he helped create, his voice is his own. He doesn't talk down to listeners, or try to make his music more accessible to a mass audience, which is a big part of what makes his work so appealing. There is a lot of experimentation on this album, sounds and styles you won't hear in his collaborations and later work, but even the pieces that come out a bit raw showcase the candidness and quality that mark his later, more polished work.



David J is an acquired taste, especially with regard to his early work, and casual listeners may not want to make the effort when more accessible alternatives are available. Songs From Another Season or Guitar Man are certainly a better introduction for the lazy or merely curious, Estranged might work for more intense people, but Etiquette Of Violence is perfect for anyone who wants to hear the artist, unfettered and uncluttered."

The Etiquette of Violence & Crocadile Tears & the VelvetCosh

Brian Pennington | so. CALAIFORNIA | 10/06/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If I were asked to pick my favorite 20 albums- these 2 would, without a doubt, be there. If only I could find them on record or CD. I owned both of these records when they first came out and did not realize that they would be out of print someday. I loved them so much that I played them til the records were ruined. David J, if you read this please talk to who ever has the rights to your music and have them make it available in the US. I certain it would not go gold because the average mind wouldnt understand your brilliant approuch to music but I'm quite certain there are thousands of fans that would appreciate your work. In the meantime, if anyone is interested in sharing these recordings with me, please let me know."