Looking back from a modern-day perspective, I find myself with alternating viewpoints concerning the relevance of Kraftwerk’s “Autobahn.”

On one hand it strikes me as simplistic and dated, but on the other, I am amazed by just how important and influential this album has been – and still is. In 1974, electronic music had almost no place at all in American culture. Although keyboard ‘synthesizers’ were commonplace in rock and roll music, they existed as an addendum to the traditional band lineup of guitar, bass drums, piano and/or organ.

Exclusively ‘electronic’ music was little more than a novelty, and almost immediately sounded dated after one or two listens, but “Autobahn” was different. Where other electronic recordings offered little more than a short-lived curiosity, Kraftwerk touched a nerve. The album’s title track provided an evocative soundscape that brought detailed imagery to mind, unearthing an emotional reaction that was almost disarming. I believe this was the very first fully synthesized record album that triggered our imaginations. Even today, years after the novelty has worn off, it still sounds like a dream.

Featured Tracks:

Autobahn

Kometenmelodie 1 ("Comet Melody 1")

Kometenmelodie 2 ("Comet Melody 2")

Mitternacht ("Midnight")

Morgenspaziergang ("Morning Walk")

November 1974 - Billboard Charted #5