Laibach continues its year-long celebration of its classic 1987 album, Opus Dei, with the announcement of new interpretations in the upcoming project Opus Dei Revisited, slated for release on December 13, 2024, via Mute Records. This project will be available in both double vinyl and double CD formats.
As one of the pioneering bands from what was once Yugoslavia, Laibach's original Opus Dei album has left an indelible mark on the industrial music scene and is notably featured in Robert Dimery's 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. With Opus Dei Revisited, the band promises a radical interrogation of the original work, which includes famous reimaginings such as their rendition of Opus's "Live Is Life" as "Opus Dei".
The release will include two different versions; the first being a reworking by the band themselves, developed during their Opus Dei Revisited Tour, and the second resulting from a collaboration with Rico Conning, who produced the original album. The latter version is expected to explore new sonic territories utilizing the original master tapes, yielding fresh perspectives on Laibach's own cult classics.
To promote this upcoming release, a taster track titled "Geburt einer Nation (Rico Conning's Inner Ear RMX 2024)" has been shared, highlighting the innovative remixing process undertaken for this project.
The band has also announced an extensive touring schedule across Europe running from September 2024 through early March 2025, visiting cities such as Portoro, Budapest, Prague, and London, among others. Details for tickets and future events can be found on the band's website Laibach and through Mute Records.
Opus Dei Revisited further illustrates Laibach's dedication to artistic rebirth, as they delve deep into their historical context while also remaining at the forefront of contemporary music.