AUTOBAHN

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think that Kraftwerk broke ground twice: once with 'Ruckzuck' and once with this album. If you want to hear some fresh music that was far ahead of its time, "Autobahn" is one of the albums to get. This spirit of innovation is evident on the lengthy title track where all they sing is "fahr'n fahr'n fahr'n auf der Autobahn, fahr'n fahr'n fahr'n auf der Autobahn". There are various melodic themes that were used to present different changes in mood, which is one of the things that attract me to this kind of music. Another thing I like about this track is that it's groovy. It's the grooves that provide this pulse to the track. I also have to mention that these guys added some really cool experimental synth imitations of the sounds of cars and trains passing by. "Hypnotic" is not the word. "Driving" is a good word. What is my favorite part? 14:29-14:42. Go check it out, especially where the guy sounds a bit like his voice is coming out of a speaker, and that texture is backed up with a melodic staccato synth. That is freaking cool.

The rest of the album also has some interesting ideas. 'Kometenmelodie 2' sounds like a truly unique blend of classical music and melodic pop sensibilities. It's not as driving, but it's moodier that than the title track. Luckily, it also features a few changes in the texture, so it is not a drag. "What about 'Mitternacht'?" I'm glad you've asked that question. 'Mitternacht' is simply dark and somewhat menacing. You have some corny organ work for setting the mood, which is nice. But then the track takes a slightly gradual turn into the unknown with various extraordinary experimental sounds, which are very impressive. Check out other tracks and see what you personally think of them. Don't mind my ratings unless you are curious.

All in all, this is a good album. Take my word for that.

Ratings/comments (if you have to ask):

1. 'Autobahn' - **** ; 2. 'Kometenmelodie 1' - ** ; 3. 'Kometenmelodie 2' - *** ; 4. 'Mitternacht' - *** ; 5. 'Morgenspaziergang' - ** ;

Stamp: "I like it."