THE CLOUDS OF DEATH LIVE IN TILBURG 
Concertpodium Noorderligt, 16 May 1985

It was an unforgettable evening at Noorderligt Tilburg. The band The Clouds of Death gave a spectacular show full of energy, emotion, and experimentation. I was one of the lucky spectators who witnessed their musical magic.

The band started with "We are the Stars," a powerful song that immediately set the tone for the rest of the evening. The singer, Doc Star, showcased his versatile voice, ranging from whispers to screams, melodic to raw. He also played the guitar and piano with great flair and passion. He was the undisputed leader of the band but also made space for the other band members to shine.

The bassist, Joyce ‘hypnotic’ Strange, was a feast for the eyes and ears. She played her bass with a hypnotic groove and occasionally sang along with Doc Star. She had a mysterious aura that perfectly matched the band’s atmosphere.

The keyboardist, Brother Flint, was a master at creating atmospheres and sounds. He used various synthesizers, organs, and effects to enrich the songs with color and depth. He alternated between subtle accents and overwhelming solos.

The drummer, Mr. Misfit, was the engine of the band. He played his drums with incredible power and precision. He gave the songs a solid rhythm and dynamic variation. He was also responsible for the humorous interludes between the songs.

The band played a mix of old and new songs, all well-received by the audience. Highlights included "Sunday Underpants," a sarcastic song about the dullness of bourgeois life, "The Moonstruck Clown," a melancholic song about loneliness and longing, "Born Cloudy Devotional," an epic song about faith and doubt, and two new, unreleased tracks: "Mr. Lee." a swinging song about an eccentric figure, and "Nosebleeding Children," a gripping song about a red cloud causing nosebleeds in children, a metaphor for pollution and the threat of war in the world. The singer repeatedly states that it is just one word: Cloud. He contrasts this with famous songs by David Bowie and Bob Dylan, which he considers too romantic and idealistic. "Nosebleeding Children" showcases The Clouds of Death’s rebellion and critique of society.

The band played with great pleasure and conviction. They showed that they cannot be pigeonholed. They captivated the audience with their original compositions, virtuoso playing, and charismatic presence.

It was an evening to never forget. The Clouds of Death proved they are one of the best bands of their generation. I can’t wait to see them again.

© Jan Hoop, May 1985