AUTOBAHN

There is an overriding feeling of bliss that transcends over the atmospheric driving anthem of the 22 minute title track on Kraftwerk's fourth album. There is no other choice but to get saturated in the rhythm and mood of the music, something which could be the equivalent to going for a long floating drive while escaping through the effects of ecstasy, while comfortably aware and accepting of the dangers... The lines float in and out and all around your head, the transient lyric which at first sounds dated then functions to hypnotise the listener with a beautiful ease....The B side draws another facet of the band, shorter pieces bringing a darker tone, which bridge both sides together even if it is still a little low key when compared with the lengthy trip of "Autobahn". "Kometenmelodie 1" is certainly an experimental mechanical piece but by the end of Autobahn a more organic tone winds down the journey with a haunting solo flute to end the drive.