The Marble Index Reviews

It is telling that a documentary about Nico was dubbed Nico Icon. Not only is it the easiest anagram to make, but it succinctly describes her career and presence. Never really a chart-topper, or large presence in any list of the greatest outside of her work with the Velvet Underground, Nico still found a way to influence an entire generation with her stark, minimalist avant-garde chamber-pop.

The Marble Index is the album that Nico intended Chelsea Girls to be: the absence of studio tinkering, the baroque compositions and her haunting, disturbing vocals engulf you in her depression. This kind of droning art-rock is not for everyone, but from its pitch-black head sprung the gothic music genre. “Facing the Wind” and “Frozen Warnings” sound similar to what Siouxsie and the Banshees or the Cure have spent their entire careers cooking up. Once more, a case of low-sales/huge-influence/underground-icon, a phenomenon that I have to come realize means the most to me. DOWNLOAD: “Frozen Warnings”

The albums atmosphere is dark but beautiful. Sad but somehow comforting. Very intimidating. There is a glimpse of hope in the between. Some of the songs are like twisted lullabies. I can’t imagine many singers who would do a record like this but Nico keeps everything in a neat package. Nicos voice guides through the album. I like to listen this album when I’m alone. The album comforts me in a strange way. And she was a great visionary.