THE MAN-MACHINE [AKA: DIE MENSCH-MASCHINE]

This is the most commercially successful Kraftwerk release to date and is most notable for the songs The Robots (Die Roboter) and The Model (Das Modell). This is by no means a bad thing especially since this release is probably most enjoyable of the band's album for me!

The Man-Machine (Die Mensch-Maschine) is packed with classics like The Robots, The Model and Metropolis that are great fun to sit through. These compositions might not be as innovative as other some of Kraftwerk's previous efforts, most notably Autobahn or Radio-Activity, but what good is innovation if it doesn't lead to a product of this quality?

Unfortunately this album is not without its flaws and had it not been for a misstep like Neon Licht then I would have probably enjoyed this album even more. Fortunately the rest of the release makes up for that flaw although the bitter sweet taste remains. Overall The Man-Machine (Die Mensch-Maschine) is probably the crown achievement of Kraftwerk's career but it's hardly an excellent addition to any prog rock music collection.

***** star songs: The Model (Das Modell) (3:38)

**** star songs: The Robots (Die Roboter) (6:11) Spacelab (5:51) Metropolis (5:59) The Man-Machine (Die Mensch-Maschine) (5:30)

*** star songs: Neon Lights (Neon Licht) (8:50)