Album Review: “Autobahn” By Kraftwerk

Puts You In A Trance

Kraftwerk’s first three records were just as innovative and groundbreaking but it was their fourth studio effort titled “Autobahn” that catapulted them to another stratosphere of stardom and cemented their spot as music legends. Any fan of electronic music, funk, ambient, or synth-pop has been, in one form or another, listening to songs which were influenced by this German band.

If “Autobahn” should be described in just one word, it would be “hypnotic.” Keep in mind that they released this LP in 1974 – when there was limited technology in the studio. It’s the culmination of the band’s musical genius. Glorious and spectacular, they broke new sonic grounds with the tracks and in the process, set the template for electronic music and its sub-genres. It’s not for everyone though, especially those who frown upon the extensive use of technology and studio effects. Rock critics, for example, were underwhelmed and unimpressed.

Nevertheless, listening to “Autobahn” serves as a little peek into the future of music. Kraftwerk created a sound that was different and unique especially considering the songs that dominated radio stations at the time. But there’s no doubt that Kraftwerk, with their sheer genius and brilliance, were pioneers of electronic music.

Highlights: Autobahn, Kometenmelodie 1, and Morgenspaziergang.

Autobahn

It’s epic, in the truest sense of the word. It takes up the entire side one and surprisingly, it gets better.

Kometenmelodie 1

Eerie and haunting, it may not be something you’d want to listen to past 10PM. But it’s still enchanting.

Morgenspaziergang

It wraps up the album nicely with it’s soothing and somehow hopeful sounds.