Memorabilia of the Week: 12 Days of A Selective Retaliation

"A Selective Retaliation" is another one of the "Holy Grails" of Front 242 items to collect. Available in the 242 Propaganda Unit catalogue for the meager price of 40 BF (Belgium), 70 BF (Europe), and 100 BF (Other Countries), it is described as: PORTFOLIO "A Selective Retaliation" 12 Computer Graphics, Limited Edition (700 Copies), Black Plastic Sleeve photos of the slides used Live by Front 242, Quadrichromy, Size 21 X 29.7 cm (Note Quadrichromy is a four-colour process).
Today this item is very hard to come by, and it is especially hard to find it in good condition, as the black sleeve is prone to scuffs and bends. I have seen this item go for well over $100-$250.

To me, this is the quintessential Front 242. This is the era from which I discovered the band, and these are the images that I will forever associate with 242. I am very glad that the latest website version and releases, such as "Moments" seem to hearken back to these early days.

These images are even more extraordinary due to the limitations of the computer techniques of that day. These images predate much of the ease of use of modern computers that we take for granted. Today everyone is a Photoshop expert, but Front's ability to manipulate images and graphics have always set them apart, above and beyond their music talents. Art & Strategy indeed!

To do them justice and spotlight each one, I will take a break from the usual routine and present a sort of "12 Days of Selective Retaliation". Today we begin with "zero".

The folder for this collection of prints features the artwork that is visualized from the Official Version album. This image also featured prominently on the Official Version poster as well.

Front 242 Logo

Detail