Blackouts

Ministry's transformation from a synthesizer-driven dance act to a bone-smashing industrial thud machine was in part shaped by an obscure band from Seattle. Bassist Paul Barker and drummer Bill Rieflin were members of the post-punk group the Blackouts, experimenting with oppressive, detached rhythms. If it weren't for their affiliation with Ministry, the Blackouts probably would've faded from rock history, but they do represent a curious and often-overlooked part of pre-grunge Seattle. The Blackouts picked up where the Telepaths left off. In 1975, Erich Werner (vocals, guitar)...