Berlin (Art Zoyd album)

Berlin is a 1987 concept album by the French avant-garde rock group Art Zoyd. It is a musical interpretation of the city of Berlin, presented as a fragmented and unsettling soundscape. The album primarily consists of instrumental pieces, characterized by Art Zoyd's signature blend of chamber rock, progressive rock, and musique concrète. It utilizes unconventional instrumentation including synthesizers, brass, strings, and percussion to create a dark and dissonant atmosphere.

The album is structured as a suite of interconnected pieces that evoke the historical and cultural complexities of Berlin, touching upon themes of division, Cold War tensions, and the city's artistic and industrial spirit. Rather than offering a literal narrative, Berlin presents a more abstract and evocative portrayal, relying on sonic textures and jarring juxtapositions to convey its message. It is often described as a challenging but rewarding listen, requiring active engagement from the audience. While not as commercially successful as some of their other works, Berlin is considered a key album in Art Zoyd's discography and a significant example of their unique approach to experimental music.