Big Noise Transmission
Gary Numan · 2012
96 min · 20 tracks · electronic music
A haunting blend of atmospheric synths and stark lyrical themes that reflect a matured, introspective Numan.
Top tracks — play these first
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Resurrection Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its pulsating rhythms and reflective lyrics, encapsulating Numan's exploration of rebirth and renewal.
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When the Sky Bleeds, He Will Come — The song combines cinematic soundscapes with powerful lyrical imagery, showcasing Numan's talent for marrying narrative depth with electronic music.
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Cars — Though originally released decades earlier, Numan’s reimagining of 'Cars' here brings a fresh perspective, emphasizing the enduring relevance of his early work within modern contexts.
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Everyday I Die — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of mortality and despair, wrapped in lush synth textures that highlight Numan's introspective lyrical style.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's atmospheric synths and minimalistic approach create a distinctive sound that rewards repeat listens.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of layered synth textures, creating a dense atmospheric sound throughout.
- Several tracks incorporate minimalist percussion, allowing the synth melodies to take center stage.
- The running time includes multiple interludes that serve as transitions between longer pieces, contributing to an immersive experience.
- 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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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- haunting atmosphere with nostalgia
- wave-like pacing with peaks
- dynamic journey of emotions
- immersive experience for headphones
- reflective moments in solitude
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek upbeat party anthems
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and critical recognition during a career resurgence.
- Career context
- By the time 'Big Noise Transmission' was released in 2012, Gary Numan was experiencing a career resurgence after a period of relative obscurity. This album followed his acclaimed return to form with 'Splinter (Songs from a Broken Mind)' in 2013, marking a significant phase where he embraced his legacy while exploring new sonic textures.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Depeche Mode· Kraftwerk· The Human League
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Resurrection Start here 3:42
- 2 Down in the Park 4:43
- 3 The Fall 4:19
- 4 Haunted 5:33
- 5 When the Sky Bleeds, He Will Come 4:49
- 6 Films 3:28
- 7 Big Noise Transmission 4:22
- 8 Pure 5:11
- 9 Dead Sun Rising 4:58
- 10 Everyday I Die 4:29
Disc 2
- 1 We Are the Lost 5:16
- 2 Absolution 5:00
- 3 For the Rest of My Life 5:04
- 4 Noise Noise 4:00
- 5 Everything Comes Down to This 4:44
- 6 Jagged 7:29
- 7 I Die: You Die 4:33
- 8 Cars 3:26
- 9 My Shadow in Vain 3:20
- 10 Are ‘Friends’ Electric? 7:48
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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