MY 200TH AOTY REVIEW! Had to pick a classic for such an occasion so I decided on Neutral Milk Hotel’s ingenious Anne-Frank-inspired sophomore (and final) LP, In the Aeroplane Over the Sea. This record is a literal sonic paradox as it’s lush yet raw, beautiful yet uncomfortable, and gleeful yet melancholic - but it’s never messy, it all has a purpose and a place. It's just a stunning lo-fi masterpiece and truly one of the greatest albums of all-time.
The Man-Machine is Kraftwerk’s 7th LP and takes everything that worked previously and gives it a fresh lick of electronic paint 🎨 The band just feel way more immediate on this record whilst still maintaining their experimental synthy-sound and it’s such a fantastic, creative listen! I honestly can’t get over the fact this came out in 1978. For me, this is Kraftwerk’s musical peak and I can’t wait to hear some of these songs tomorrow when I go to see them live.
Kraftwerk’s 6th LP Trans-Europe Express is a minimalistic, hypnotic and futuristic listen that once again pushed the band’s title as electronic music pioneers. The way this record builds atmosphere is really impressive, however the caveat of that is it does become rather repetitive and meandering (similar to Autobahn). If they cut 2/3 mins off of the longer tracks it’d be a much better flowing experience and (for me) would grant it way more re-play value.
Radio-Activity is Kraftwerk’s 5th LP and for me marks a subtle shift in style for the band. It’s definitely a more creative and adventurous listen, although it does lack the consistency of Autobahn (however that record is not nearly as conceptual). The retro-futuristic synthy soundscapes on here are so cool and must have blown minds in 1975! There are genuinely some Doctor Who-esk horror-vibe moments on this album and even though it’s kinda bizarre, it’s also genius.
Autobahn is the 4th LP by Kraftwerk and is without a doubt a pioneering album in the electronic music movement. For many this is the record that really saw Kraftwerk become legends with their bold use of ambient textures and proggy grooves becoming a blueprint for later electronic acts. It is quite a meandering listen however and for me doesn’t have a lot of re-play value. Credit is hugely due though for its creativity and lasting legacy in the electronic genre.
With their 4th album NEVER ENOUGH Turnstile took everything that worked on GLOW ON and doubled-down, creating a well-flowing, slick and lush project. The performances and production is also just fantastic, with the sonic layering of all the different textures really adding a lot to the listen. It’s such a cool, energetic and groovy time whilst still retaining the chiller, atmospheric moments that comprise Turnstile’s poppy post-hardcore sound.