Kraftwerk – Computer World - [1981]

One of the many Kraftwerk projects sparking a wave of ‘alien’ sounds, changing music forever . . .

I always think it is incredibly difficult reviewing albums from decades and decades ago due to how quickly music evolves. I think this is most evident in the world of electronic music. The soundscapes, synths, and overall capabilities within the genre evolve with technology at a rate quicker than any other genre. Therefore, while this album is a masterpiece, you do need to put on your 80s hat, or step into a time capsule, before you enjoy the futuristic, alien sounds of the German quartet.

Before Daft Punk took the world by storm with their vocoded vocals, there was Kraftwerk with their, not so upbeat, monotone, and incredibly German, one liners. I bet you didn’t know that, “When you press the special key, it plays a little melody”.

If one looks past the incredibly of-it’s-time vocal phrases, you get to hear the soundscapes and synths that Kraftwerk are most known for. On the surface, it does sound like you are listening to something fairly beginner and rudimental when it comes to Electronic Dance Music. However, it is when you realize that these sounds where alien to those at the time, as was a computer. The tones of the synthesizers sound as if they could have been produced from tracks 20 years ago. So, it is when you realize that they are from over 40 years ago that the album becomes mesmerizing.

My personal favourite from the album would be ‘Computer Love’, however I am always humoured by the vocals on ‘Pocket Calculator. Overall, I would give this album a 9/10, but it is so incredibly hard to judge.