Faust

Introduction to "So Far"

"So Far" is the second studio album by the German band Faust, released in 1972 on the Polydor label. This album followed their self-titled debut, which garnered attention for its innovative approach to music. Recorded in March 1972 at Wumme, near Bremen, the album continued the band’s exploration of electronic and rock sounds, which are characteristic of the Krautrock genre.

Album Artwork and Presentation

The album was notably packaged in all-black aesthetics, a stark contrast to the clear vinyl of their debut. It features a black outer sleeve, inner sleeve, and labels. Accompanying the album are inserts that include illustrations for each track. These paintings were created by Edda Kochl and reflect the band’s avant-garde approach to both sound and visual presentation. The design was overseen by Uwe Nettelbeck, who also produced the album.

Musical Composition

"So Far" contains a blend of experimental sounds and structured musicality. The opening track, "It's A Rainy Day Sunshine Girl," showcases a mix of melodic and abstract elements, setting the tone for the album. Other tracks like "No Harm" and "Mamie Is Blue" further demonstrate the band's ability to fuse various musical styles, creating a unique listening experience. The album features several shorter pieces, including "Picnic On A Frozen River" and "Me Lack Space...," which contribute to its eclectic nature.

Production Credits

The album was engineered by Kurt Graupner, ensuring a distinct sound quality that complements Faust's experimental style. The band members—Gunther Wusthoff, Hans-Joachim Irmler, Jean-Herve Peron, Rudolf Sosna, and Werner Diermaier—each brought their own influences into the recording process. Their collaborative efforts resulted in a work that reflects the innovative spirit of the early 1970s German music scene.

Release Information

"So Far" was released in 1972 and is available on vinyl as an LP album. The album reflects the band's ongoing experimentation and development within the Krautrock movement, showcasing their distinct sound through a combination of electronic and rock elements. Faust recorded this album at Wumme, a location known for its significance in the German music landscape.