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Laibach
Divided States of America / Laibach Tour 2004

Mute

Posted: Friday, February 09, 2007
By: Ilker Yücel
Editor

The Laibach Kunst Machine follows up their latest album, Volk, with a DVD documenting their last tour in America, conducted in the wake of the tragic 2004 election. It was this which led them to name it the Divided States of America tour. What distinguishes this DVD from others of its ilk is not so much the concert footage, of which there is little aside from a bonus document of a Paris show the following year. The DVD is primarily a documentary featuring various interviews not with Laibach, but with an assorted group of fans and other individuals from all walks of life discussing their current views of America and Laibach's place in their social consciousness. Naturally, one can expect that most of these people hold Laibach in high regard and view their message as an essential voice for sociopolitical change, though at times the band seems to mock this view. It's not without an element of humor, such as in a scene where Laibach spokesperson Ivan Novak points out to an interviewer that the "Nazi imagery" he was referring to in his question... were actually American uniforms, not Nazi. Even funnier, though substantially more interesting, is that the most insightful dialogue comes not from a political figure or even a longtime fan, but from a cab driver who relays an anecdote about the lack of common ground, and thus the lack of communication between those on the right and those on the left. Always the group to question society's sense of values, ethics, and actions, the documentary is interspersed with shots of the band during their time in the states; intriguing as such commentary on the state of American society is given through passing billboards for the Red Cross, graffiti preaching Jesus, and cigarette and alcohol advertisements, all indicating a simultaneous fascination and scorn for American values. The footage focuses mainly on vocalist Milan Fras, whose presence is as intimidating and powerful as ever, even as he simply walks down city streets, sits alone in a near-vacant coffee shop, or even waiting outside the venue of their next show. To cap things off is a live clip of Peter Mlakar, the representative for the Department of Pure and Applied Philosophy branch of NSK, delivering a written speech expressing disdain for American imperialism and totalitarianism, given in a vocal tone even more decrepit and frightening than Fras' trademark growl. The actual concert film is entertaining to watch if nothing else, though it is little more than a bonus feature since a Paris show has little to do with the Divided States of America. Still, to see Laibach perform is always an event unto itself, and while it's certainly not the most dynamic show the group has performed, they are undoubtedly at the top of their game as they belt out such classics as "Opus Dei," "Geburt Einer Nation," and "God is God," as well as several key tracks from WAT. Those whose sense of blind patriotism shields them from the concerns of their own hypocrisy and tyranny would do well to put aside their pride and their zeal, and to open their minds, their eyes, and their ears. Ever the question and never the answer, Laibach takes a good hard look at America and its people, and turns our gaze inward, beckoning us to look into a mirror and question what we see. Is this a free, just, secure, and tranquil nation? After watching the Divided States of America DVD, one has to wonder.