In 1980, Ilitch mastermind Thierry M ller released his second LP, 10 Suicides, on the French imprint S.C.O.P.A. Unlike his debut Periodikmindtrouble (also available from Superior Viaduct), which featured intricately layered instrumentals, 10 Suicides explores a more art-damaged pop sensibility. While distorted guitars and atmospheric synth workouts remain a part of M ller's signature sound, several songs credit the mysterious Ruth Ellyeri, who was not an actual person, but rather M ller's female alter-ego.
Opening track "Elle Voulait Que Je Sois Dr le" shows Ilitch's new direction with overloaded vocoders, driving Moog basslines and soft, Eno-like melodic flourishes. The androgynous vocals on "Waiting For Mabelle (Je Ne Viendrais Pas)" resemble an upbeat Gregorian chant bent through a 20th Century lens. 10 Suicides is a staggeringly personal album that still sounds years ahead of its time.
This first-time vinyl reissue comes with 16-page booklet and is recommended for fans of Gh dalia Tazart s, Chris & Cosey and Monoton.