This terrific compilation, spanning the length of
Jo Zimmermann's career as
Schlammpeitziger, is the perfect introduction to his quirky, big-hearted music. All four of his full-length records are represented, in addition to a track from his split-LP with Master's Cosmic Music. While
Schlammpeitziger has occasionally experimented with darker shadings, the songs chosen for
Collected Simple Songs of My Temporary Past are generally upbeat and cheery, showcasing
Zimmermann's strongest and most accomplished work. The catchy "Mango und Papaja auf Tobago" is like a dreamy sock-hop instrumental transposed to a toy keyboard from the early '80s. "Konfliktfickfähig" is closer to a spazzy Nintendo soundtrack, with rhythmic electronic bubbles and a driving chord sequence ready for game play. "Honkytonk Schlickummpittz" has the retrofuturist feel of electronic music from the '70s, sounding like an unearthed rarity from
Kraftwerk's
Autobahn sessions. "Hallimaschbomba im Kreisverkehr" has an appealingly awkward gait, with slightly offbeat rhythms providing counterpoint to the luminous Casiotone gurgles. With 13 tracks and not a single dud,
Collected Simple Songs of My Temporary Past borders on essential for admirers of electronic pop.