KRAFTWERK 2

This second ''Kraftwerk'' album shows a bit more the direction they will head for later works but by no means is this a good album IMHHO. The minimal line-up could only generates minimalist music.

The repetitive theme of the long''Kling Klang'' might well be a hint of future things to come, but it can't be compared to ''Autobahn'' of course. This second album is less experimental than their weak debut (only by an inch), but let's be honest here: one barely faces good music while listening to this album.

This type of albums are only considered because of the later grandeur of the band to be clear. This type of music was rather confidential in the early seventies: in terms of sales or radio airing. Which means that it was almost unknown at the time. As I have said, it is only thanks to their later work that one got acquainted with this type of album.

Now, to be honest if you like repetitive instrumental music, you might be hooked, but IMHHO, this is just too repetitive, and in the long run a definite feel of boredom prevails (especially during ''Kling Klang'').

The worst of this album being these three minutes or so of ''Atem'' (the well named). Some might call these noises/sound as music, but my perception of this track just sounds as if a person was breathing through a machine and got his breathe recorded. Awful, press next of course.

The problem while pressing next, is that you won't be confronted to any other feeling. One of the worst moment being achieved during ''Spur 4''. Fully in line with their debut. At this time, it is up to you to either press next or listening further on.

But when I have to endure almost ten minutes of '' Wellenlang''. I wonder if I shouldn't be listed in the World Book of Records. These are ten minutes painful as hell. I can hardly understand that some reviewers are rating this work with the masterpiece status. It leaves me breathless.

I will be generous with this one: two stars. But don't ask me to give one good reason to provide such a high rating, I wouldn't be able to give a proper answer. Maybe some good later works.or the ''Kling Klang'' epic which is by far the best you will get out of here.