When looking into electronic music from the 80's there is frequently reference to Kraftwerk. They're often touted as pioneering the genre, as well as influencing many of the artists who adopted that sound themselves. Despite this, to this day, I have never heard any of their music.
I came across my first couple album from the band while digging through the used bins at my local used CD shop. Frankly, I was surprised to find them, as these often get scooped up fast. Though out of the norm for me, I did pick up their 1978 released Die Mensch-Maschine (AKA The Man-Machine), and today's Retro Spin, 1981's Computerwelt (AKA Computer World). Seeing that there was only one more album released by them in the 80's, I frantically dug but came up empty. No worries. A quick transaction on Discogs, and it would soon be on the way. Hopefully, this wouldn't be a mistake, as again, I'd never heard any of their albums up to this point.
I was of the impression that the band was an instrumental group, so I was a little surprised when the opening track, and title of the album, featured lyrics. Not in the sense of singing perse. Rather, a somewhat mix of spoken dialog with singing, and all of it mixed with vocoders. It was different, for sure.
When Pocket Calculator started up, I immediately thought the song would have easily fit into the film, Revenge Of The Nerds. Not only did the lyrics fit, but so too did the instrumentation. I could picture it being overlaid into the movie, and from what my mind composed, it worked well.
I don't know what I think about Kraftwerk. Part of me wants to say I liked it. However, the other side is saying that I would never play these songs in public, let alone around someone. Not that it would be embarrassing, but rather, I think it would raise too many questions and require a lot of explaining.
With that said, it was enjoyable overall. I think a lot of its charm comes from how different it is from the usual pop / rock / synth / new wave of the era. Did I find any takeaway hits? No, not necessarily. I don't think this is something I'm going to be playing often. However, it's nice to know that if I do, it's a solid one from start to finish.
As for Kraftwerk, they only released one more album in the 80's, and not until five years after this one. That's where I'm headed next, so I'll see you there.
Click "HERE" to go back to the home page. For more posts related to this one, please click the labels below.
Disclaimer: They Toy Box does not endorse or contribute to piracy. Retro Spins posts are intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. None of the music discussed here is available for sale, downloading or distribution.
 |
| THIS WEEK ON THE CHARTS December 24, 1983 |
 |
| THIS WEEK ON THE CHARTS December 24, 1988 |
No comments:
Post a Comment