To mark the 40th anniversary of their debut album, Laibach and Mute are releasing a limited Laibach 40 vinyl and CD box set. 

Label: MUTE

Originally issued in 1985 without the band’s name – as they were banned in Slovenia and Yugoslavia at the time – and with Tito’s speeches censored by a shrill bleep, this legendary first album now appears in a remastered facsimile edition bearing its originally intended name for the first time.

The box also features historic recordings from Laibach’s formative years. These include the cult live album Ljubljana – Zagreb – Belgrade, capturing their first concerts in 1982 across Yugoslavia, with some tracks originating from early rehearsals held in a practice space wedged between a mortuary, a dissection room, and a madhouse. 

Another highlight is M.B. December 21, 1984, documenting a semi-legal Ljubljana concert held exactly two years after the death of member Tomaž Hostnik. 

Adding to this is material from a recent performance at Ljubljana’s Cukrarna Gallery, where Laibach, joined by historical members, recreated the infamous We Forge the Future concert from the 1983 Zagreb Biennale – violently cut short by organizers with police and military intervention.

The set, housed in a specially designed box which enhances the original sleeve design, is accompanied by a booklet, a DVD film and a digital download code covering all vinyl tracks plus additional material.

With Laibach 40, Mute celebrates the uncompromising beginnings of one of Europe’s most enigmatic, provocative and influential music adventure through time and space.

And last but not least, here is a big thank you to all supporters who, with their donation, enabled us to create in relative peace amidst these chaotic times. Check the donor list.