What does Before and After Science sound like?

A kaleidoscopic blend of ambient textures and art pop melodies that defy conventional song structures. Rooted in electronic and ambient. Start with "No One Receiving".

Is Before and After Science a good place to start with Brian Eno?

Yes, Before and After Science is recommended as a starting point for new Brian Eno listeners. A kaleidoscopic blend of ambient textures and art pop melodies that defy conventional song structures. Before and After Science is Brian Eno's fourth solo album, released in December 1977 following his influential work on the ambient genre. At this point, Eno had already established himself as a pioneer in both electronic music and art rock, with previous albums like 'Another Green World' laying the groundwork for his innovative sonic explorations.

Who is Before and After Science for?

Before and After Science works well if you're into kaleidoscopic sound explorations, thoughtful background listening and subtle emotional depth.

How many songs are on Before and After Science?

Before and After Science has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Before and After Science

Brian Eno · 1977

39 min · 10 tracks · electronic music

A kaleidoscopic blend of ambient textures and art pop melodies that defy conventional song structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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No One Receiving Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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By This River — This track exemplifies Eno's ability to evoke deep emotions through minimalistic instrumentation, creating a serene yet haunting atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
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Energy Fools the Magician — In this piece, Eno combines spoken word with an ethereal soundscape, showcasing his experimental approach to blending different auditory elements.
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King’s Lead Hat — This track stands out with its infectious rhythm and catchy melody, reflecting Eno's art pop sensibilities while remaining rooted in his avant-garde style.
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Here He Comes — The song features lush harmonies and layered textures, demonstrating Eno's knack for crafting immersive sound environments that invite deep listening.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

81 /100

Summit

Higher than 100% of albums we've rated

Eno's integration of diverse styles and innovative structures makes this a standout in electronic music.

What we noticed

The last three tracks gradually reduce in tempo and complexity, providing a reflective conclusion to the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

kaleidoscopic sound explorations
thoughtful background listening
subtle emotional depth

Maybe skip if you

seeks immediate gratification
prefers traditional song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Innovative and influential, often seen as Eno's most ambitious work.
Themes: serene introspection· avant-garde pop· dreamlike atmospheres
Moods: Dreamy· Ethereal
Career context: Before and After Science is Brian Eno's fourth solo album, released in December 1977 following his influential work on the ambient genre. At this point, Eno had already established himself as a pioneer in both electronic music and art rock, with previous albums like 'Another Green World' laying the groundwork for his innovative sonic explorations.
Stylistic neighbors: Harold Budd· Aphex Twin· Tangerine Dream