Birth Control

Label: Brain
Country: Germany
Released: 1977
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to Increase

Birth Control is a German rock band that emerged in 1968. Their album, Increase, was released in 1977 on the Brain label. This release marks a significant point in their discography, showcasing their evolution in sound and lineup changes. The album was recorded in July and August of the same year at Lerchenhof in Pohlhausen, using Delta-Studios' mobile recording equipment.

Lineup Changes and Musical Contributions

With Increase, Birth Control introduced new members to their lineup. Bassist Horst Stachelhaus and drummer Manfred von Bohr joined the band, taking over for Peter Foller and the previous drummer. The core trio of Bernd Noske, Bruno Frenzel, and Zeus B. Held continued to shape the band’s sound. Each member contributed to the album's diverse sonic landscape. Zeus B. Held played various instruments, including the Hammond organ, Mini-Moog, and clarinet, showcasing his versatility.

Track Highlights

The album features seven tracks that blend elements of rock, krautrock, and progressive rock. "Skate-Board Sue" opens the album with an upbeat tempo, while "Until The Night" stretches over six minutes, providing a more contemplative experience. "We All Thought We Knew You" stands out with its intricate arrangements and lyrical depth. The closing track, "Seems My Bike's Riding Me," presents a unique narrative approach, further highlighting the band's creative range.

Production and Artistic Vision

Produced by B.C.P. and David Hitchcock, the album reflects a cohesive artistic vision. The engineering team, including Hitchcock and Manfred Schunke, contributed to achieving a polished sound. Photography for the album cover was done by Jacques Alexandre, adding a visual element that complements the music. The artwork and production choices underscore the band's dedication to creating a comprehensive artistic statement.

Conclusion

Increase was released in 1977 and features tracks that highlight the band's blend of rock and progressive influences.

Tracklist

A1	Skate-Board Sue Bass Guitar – HorstDrums – ManfredGuitar – BrunoLyrics By – Zeus B. HeldMusic By – Bruno FrenzelSynthesizer [Mini- Moog], Electric Organ [Hammond C 3], Synthesizer [String] – ZeusVocals, Cowbell, Tom Tom [Concert- Toms], Percussion – Nossi*	3:55
A2	Domino's Hammock Bass Guitar – HorstDrums – ManfredElectric Organ [Hammond C3], Synthesizer [Polymoog], Vocals [Harmony] – ZeusGuitar, Vocals [Harmony] – BrunoLead Vocals, Vocals [Harmony], Tom Tom [Concert- Toms], Maracas [Maraccas] – Nossi*Music By, Lyrics By – Zeus B. Held	4:52
A3	Fight For You Bass Guitar – HorstDrums – ManfredElectric Piano [Fender], Grand Piano, Synthesizer [Mini- Moog], Synthesizer [String], Clavinet [Hohner D 6] – ZeusGuitar – BrunoLyrics By – Zeus B. HeldMusic By – Bernd NoskeMusic By – Bruno FrenzelVocals, Percussion – Nossi*	4:35
A4	Until The Night Bass Guitar – HorstGuitar – BrunoLyrics By – Zeus B. HeldMusic By – Bernd NoskeMusic By – Bruno FrenzelSynthesizer [Poly- Moog], Electric Piano [Fender], Electric Organ [Hammond C3], Alto Saxophone – ZeusTom Tom [Concert- Toms], Triangle, Vibraslap [Vibroslap], Percussion [Flexitone & Other Percussions], Bells – ManfredVocals, Drums, Vibraphone [Vibes] – Nossi*	6:25
B1	Get Up! Bass Guitar – HorstDrums, Congas – ManfredGuitar, Backing Vocals – BrunoLead Vocals, Vocals [Harmony], Triangle, Finger Cymbals, Tambourine – NossiLyrics By – Zeus B. HeldMusic By – Bernd NoskeMusic By – Horst StachelhausMusic By – Manfred von BohrSynthesizer [Mini- Moog], Synthesizer [Polymoog], Backing Vocals, Clavinet [Hohner D 6] – Zeus*	4:35
B2	We All Thought We Knew You Bass Guitar – HorstDrums – ManfredGuitar – BrunoMusic By, Lyrics By – Zeus B. HeldSynthesizer [Mini- Moog], Synthesizer [Polymoog], Electric Piano [Fender], Electric Organ [Hammond C 3] – ZeusVocals, Vibraslap [Vibes], Tom Tom [Concert- Toms], Percussion – Nossi*	7:50
B3	Seems My Bike's Riding Me Bass Guitar – HorstDrums – ManfredGuitar – BrunoLyrics By – Zeus B. HeldMusic By – Bernd NoskeMusic By – Horst StachelhausSynthesizer [Micro- Moog], Synthesizer [Polymoog], Electric Piano [Fender], Electric Organ [Hammond C 3] – ZeusVocals, Timpani, Cowbell, Other [Tubo], Tambourine, Tom Tom [Concert- Toms], Drums, Percussion – Nossi*	8:00