Automaton
Jamiroquai · 2017
57 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock
A vibrant fusion of funk, disco, and electronic elements that captures the spirit of modern dance music.
Top tracks — play these first
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Automaton — The title track showcases the album's central themes of technology and humanity, blending infectious grooves with contemplative lyrics about our digital existence.
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Cloud 9 — This track stands out with its euphoric melodies and uplifting message, encapsulating the feeling of escapism that permeates the album.
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Shake It On Start here — An energetic opener, this song combines classic Jamiroquai funk with contemporary production, setting an upbeat tone for the rest of the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album effectively fuses genres while maintaining a cohesive sound, though it doesn't fully break new ground.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a strong groove in 'Shake It On', establishing a danceable tempo that persists through the first half.
- Tracks like 'Automaton' and 'Superfresh' incorporate electronic elements prominently, blending live instrumentation with synths.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in 'Something About You', which enhances the melodic complexity.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady groove for dancing
- uplifting vibes for socializing
- energetic flow for workouts
- vibrant soundscapes for road trips
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quiet introspection
- prefering immediate gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Significant release after a long hiatus, showcasing continued vitality and innovation.
- Themes
- digital existence· technological alienation
- Career context
- Released in 2017, Automaton is Jamiroquai's eighth studio album, arriving after a lengthy hiatus following 2010's Rock Dust Light Star. The band faced lineup changes and evolving musical landscapes but returned with a renewed focus on electronic sounds and social commentary, reflecting lead singer Jay Kay's vision of a world increasingly influenced by technology.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Incognito· Earth, Wind & Fire· Chic
Tracklist
- 1 Shake It On Start here 5:14
- 2 Automaton 4:47
- 3 Cloud 9 3:56
- 4 Superfresh 3:48
- 5 Hot Property 4:31
- 6 Something About You 3:58
- 7 Summer Girl 5:31
- 8 Nights Out in the Jungle 5:09
- 9 Dr Buzz 6:01
- 10 We Can Do It 4:06
- 11 Vitamin 4:26
- 12 Carla 5:33
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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