Is Barking a good place to start with Underworld?

Yes, Barking is recommended as a starting point for new Underworld listeners. A vibrant blend of pulsing rhythms and lush synth textures, inviting listeners into a dynamic sonic landscape. Barking marks Underworld's seventh studio album, released after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, A Hundred Days Off. This period saw them exploring new production techniques and influences, which culminated in a fresh sound that still retained their signature electronic pulse. The album also served as a re-establishment of their presence in the electronic music scene.

Barking works well if you're into steady mid-tempo progression, immersive listening experience and vibrant grooves for dancing.

How many songs are on Barking?

Barking has 9 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Barking

Underworld · 2010

53 min · 9 tracks · synth-pop

A vibrant blend of pulsing rhythms and lush synth textures, inviting listeners into a dynamic sonic landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Always Loved a Film — This track exemplifies the album's ability to marry introspective lyrics with an infectious beat, making it both reflective and danceable. Its engaging narrative and melodic hooks encapsulate the essence of Underworld's style.
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Bird 1 Start here — Opening the album, this track sets a tone that blends atmospheric sounds with driving rhythms, showcasing Underworld's skill in creating immersive soundscapes. Its build-up invites listeners into a world of sonic exploration.
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Diamond Jigsaw — With its intricate layers and pulsating energy, this track highlights the duo’s knack for crafting compelling beats that invite movement while maintaining an emotional core. It's a standout example of their fusion of techno and lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong production and rhythmic innovation while maintaining a cohesive sound throughout.

What we noticed

The album opens with a track that features a steady, pulsing beat layered with intricate synth melodies, setting an energetic tone.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements interspersed with melodic hooks, creating a dynamic interplay between rhythm and narrative.
The final track introduces a gradual fade-out that contrasts with the more upbeat nature of the preceding songs, providing a reflective conclusion.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

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 mid-tempo progression
immersive listening experience
vibrant grooves for dancing
synth melodies that evoke emotion

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and relevance in the electronic music scene.
Themes: urban nightlife· digital nostalgia· club culture· emotional circuitry
Moods: Dreamy· Chill
Career context: Barking marks Underworld's seventh studio album, released after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, A Hundred Days Off. This period saw them exploring new production techniques and influences, which culminated in a fresh sound that still retained their signature electronic pulse. The album also served as a re-establishment of their presence in the electronic music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: The Chemical Brothers· Fatboy Slim· Daft Punk