Schlagenheim

'Schlagenheim' is classified as experimental rock and post-punk, heavily leaning into math rock and noise rock. The London-based band's debut album features angular guitar work, irregular time signatures, and constantly shifting dynamics. Produced by Dan Carey, the record sounds chaotic yet highly structured.

The debut studio album was released in June 2019 on Rough Trade Records. Black Midi had generated massive hype in the UK music press prior to the release due to their intense live performances. The album immediately cemented them as leaders of the new wave of British rock bands.

The album features the distinctive, theatrical vocal delivery of frontman Geordie Greep, though bassist Cameron Picton also sings lead on a few tracks. Greep's frantic vocal style is a defining characteristic of the band's early sound. His abstract lyrical style often tells dark, character-driven stories.

The word 'Schlagenheim' is a German surname, though the band members have claimed it doesn't have a specific deep meaning. Geordie Greep has explained that they simply liked the way the word sounded and felt it fit the aesthetic of the album. The name appears in the lyrics of the opening track, '953.'