KRAFTWERK

Kraftwerk's debut shows an interesting middle ground between the organic sound of Organisation (whose sole album slipped out only a handful of months before the new band set to work recording this one) and the crisp electronic vibe they would eventually hit upon later in their career. Possibly the best song on the album is Ruckzuck, which exemplifies this transitional nature well - over a processed organ line which sounds about 10 years ahead of its time for 1970, Schneider lays down flute passages whilst the rhythm section plays backing. The hint of electronic structures to come creeping into the already somewhat nostalgic tones of psychedelia pretty much sums up the album. Closing track Von Himmel Hoch includes a strange gushing, steaming sound towards the end that makes me think of the sort of industrial sounds which would inspire the Industrial scene in decades to come.

A good start, though Kraftwerk would achieve more striking and enduring results in albums to come. It's definitely interesting to listen to, but I wouldn't call it essential by any means.