I think a lot of KW's music was all about a MOOD... the layers of rhythm were complemented with layers of minor notes and other well researched subtle surprises. A lot of tension and release is evident on their best material. Not just tension, but deep psychological, "when I was a kid" memories, or something! LOL In other words, the difference between scary, artsy robots that represent the group in publicity shots http://kraftwerk.technopop.com.br/images.php Or goofy, candy ass nitwits who can't carry a robotic jock strap, let alone resemble a pop group like DEVO. http://www.clubdevo.com/indexns/index.htm Gary Numan is the closest, non goofy "rival" if you will... amir MICHAEL FRAZIER wrote:
"Sure, today's stuff is really advanced and can be used for very nice things, but the old stuff is much more intelligent in a way, "
I think electronic music of the past sounds the way it does because you had to work harder to get those sounds. These days it seems too easy to turn on a keyboard, punch a few programming keys, and presto! Electronik rhythms all around! Back then, you need some scopes, reliable vacuum tubes and lots and lots of tinkering. They built their own instruments and electronic drums, for crying out loud! I think that's fascinating. It was a labour of love in uncharted territory. No digital sampling. No digital recording. No non-linear editing. Just drag out the good old 16- or 32- or 64- track reel-to-reel and tinker away.
Maybe that's why some KW fans aren't fond of the Mix. Kraftwerk discovered a new country. Now they and many others are living in this country and benefiting from the fruits of KW's labour. After all, weren't they one of the firsts to use sampling on Electric Cafe?
I still think they can use their gift of sound layering on new recordings. Don't worry so much about being innovative. Just make more beautiful music.
Mike F Somewhere in Ohio
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