I like “Sex Object” and I think people forget Ralf still explored human interactions. This was around the time he was settling down, having a kid born. Songs like “The Model”, “The Telephone Call”, and “Computer Love” show this side too.

It’s obvious that the analog-to-digital movement that happened hurt the album. It was much easier to get really good sounds. Kraftwerk found themselves with a bunch of antiques around that time and poured money into really expensive synths.

Technology just caught up to Kraftwerk. It’s the same with the concerts now — technology finally has allowed them to the whole laptop show instead of having a big row of clunky equipment.

And to note, Electric Cafe did receive some critical acclaim. I recall it being record of the year in some publications in the UK.

It’s still a traditional album with a good single (Telephone Call), side of suites, then a few other motifs. The B side of this record is very direct with human lyrics.

“Sex Object” may sound weird coming from a 60-something year old man in a tron suit, but he’s just as much a person with feelings and a personal life. Even if it’s rare from Kraftwerk, it’s a well executed song about dealing with a clouded mind whether to give in or stand up for yourself.

After seeing it live recently, it was one of the highlights of the night for sure.

As much as I love TEE (and albums alike) I couldn’t listen to it more than twice a day, or over a week in row. It would be impossible to have any feeling left if I did so.

But Techno Pop is music-non-stop for me. It moves me, it’s so clean and multi dimensional in sound. As a matter of fact I listen to it more than any other Kraftwerk album. And if I ever had a chance to go to their show, Techno Pop would be my first choice – it has an idealised discoteque quality I think. It’s more musical than conceptual.

PS. How many times was “sex” mentioned in the article? In context that “robots don’t feel”? It’s hilarious how some can’t get over the shock XD

Seeing/watching/hearing Music Non Stop finish off a ‘live’ performance of Kraftwerk is exhilarating and at the same time exhaustive. The tweaks to the re-release (including adding the track Housephone) to me we’re not needed.. And finally, I have to agree, listening and, hearing them sing live, in their native tongue is the only way to listen to them.. Great article, and thank you for making me re-think..

As someone who has always had a peculiar affinity for ‘Electric Cafe,’ I can’t wait to dig into this article.

Rock on.