Algebra Suicide, the Chicago-based duo of poet Lydia Tomkiw and musician Don Hedeker, emerged in 1982 with a distinctive fusion of spoken word and minimalist post-punk. Tomkiw's deadpan recitations, delivered in her Midwestern accent, intertwined seamlessly with Hedeker's atmospheric guitar and drum machine arrangements, creating a sound both haunting and hypnotic. Their work drew comparisons to artists like Laurie Anderson and the Velvet Underground, yet maintained a unique identity. Notable releases include the 1988 compilation "The Secret Like Crazy" and the 1991 album "Swoon." Their innovative approach continues to influence artists exploring the intersection of poetry and music. ([music.apple.com](https://music.apple.com/us/artist/algebra-suicide/275361392?utm_source=openai))