REVIEW: KMFDM - ENEMY

Established in 1984, German industrial rock pioneers KMFDM are back releasing their twenty fourth album. Fuelled by rebellion and dance, KMFDM fights the world’s injustices with profoundly honest lyricism and bold instrumentation. The band’s brave commitment to their beliefs is an honorary achievement and should be listened to by revolutionary souls worldwide. 

Ripped from their eighties origins, ENEMY invokes an uprising from the dancefloor. The album has contrast, from aggressive riffs to fun, funky electronic elements to accompany the challenging themes of the lyrics. 

ENEMY sets the tone for the band's stance on current society. The song capitalises on the band's industrial roots with scathing vocals and traditionally rock instrumentals. The band pleads listeners to keep moving to make justice and see the change we want to see in the world. With lyrics such as "Weaponise, Unify in a world that wants us quiet” and “We don’t need no false leaders, no place for hypocrisy”. Those lyrics alone prove the compelling nature of KMFDM , one which demands change.

Sultry and alluring, VAMPYR captivates its audience with soft melodies that explode into a catchy chorus, underlined by an unmistakable groove. LUCIA CIFARELLI’s hypnotic vocals entice you to join her in song and embrace her demands. She is complimented by riot-worthy drumming and powerfully intricate guitar riffs. With Lucia exclaiming ‘be my vampire’, It gives gigantic 90’s dark romance vibes full of all the vampiric blade-esque blood rave energy you could ever ask for.

Heartwarmingly, daughter of LUCIA CIFARELLI, ANNABELLA KONIETZKO makes her songwriting debut with the band in YOÜ. She confesses her hatred of jealousy with cheeky lyrics such as “praying on your downfall” and “I hope your bitch-ass boyfriend cheats on you”. The song perfectly encapsulates feminine rage and competition. The song is backed with futuristic synths and bouncy beats sure to get you catching the desire to dance. She plainly states "jealousy doesn’t taste like sugar” showing the bitterness of rivalry, almost serving as a cautionary tale. This song is an absolute stand out and it’s sure to make listeners hope for more written by ANNABELLA KONIETZKO in KMFDM.

GUN QUARTER SUE is the album's stunning interlude, allowing the musicians to showcase their viciousness and aptitude with their instruments. Needing no lyrics, the song begins with chaotic guitars and transitions to a jazzy yet aggressive electronic beat that KMFDM are renowned for. The drums are saturated with rapid fills accompanied by a thrillingly powerful guitar riff and solo. No instrument feels overshadowed allowing each to get its time in the spotlight to create a flawless composition. Although it heavily contrasts with the rest of the album, this track definitely shouldn’t be overlooked.

Creating an ominous atmosphere, THE SECOND COMING relies on a dark bassy instrumentation and deep vocals. The song sounds reminiscent of ‘War of the Worlds’ and the video game ‘Doom (2016)’. The lyrics are chillingly stated over the backing with haunting words such as “Things fall apart, the centre cannot hold mere anarchy” and “Surely the second coming is at hand”. The song feels like a warning of the future of society if change doesn’t come about - it feels uneasy with even the guitars seeming to scream a representation of how the band feels in the current political climate. With this song ending the album it leaves you sat in contemplation and the yearning to listen again to reveal the song's deeper meaning. 

KMFDM are always sure to give you grooves and show their hearts on their sleeves through honest lyricism. Whether you're a long time fan of the band or interested in delving into the amazing genre of electronic industrial metal, this album does not disappoint. 

Score: 8/10

ENEMY will be released on 6th February 2026 via Metropolis Records.

Words: Alix England

Photos: KMFDM