What makes Black Noise by FM notable?

Black Noise is significant for its innovative use of synthesizers and complex compositions, contributing to the evolution of progressive rock. The album received critical acclaim upon release and has influenced subsequent space rock and progressive bands, solidifying FM's reputation as pioneers in this genre. Released in 1978, Black Noise was FM's second studio album, following their debut, Headroom. At this point in their career, the band was refining their unique blend of progressive rock and jazz influences, positioning themselves as a notable act within the Canadian music scene.

How many songs are on Black Noise?

Black Noise has 8 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Black Noise

FM · 1978

40 min · 8 tracks · progressive rock

A cosmic odyssey blending intricate progressive rock with ethereal soundscapes and contemplative lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Phasors on Stun — This opening track sets the tone with its dynamic interplay between soaring melodies and intricate rhythms, showcasing the band's technical prowess.
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Slaughter in Robot Village — The track blends dark themes with a playful yet complex arrangement, demonstrating FM's ability to merge storytelling with sophisticated musicianship.
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Black Noise — The title track encapsulates the essence of the album with its lengthy exploration of sound textures and philosophical undertones, inviting listeners into a deep sonic experience.

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 complex compositions and innovative synth use, making it a notable entry in progressive rock.

What we noticed

The album opens with a dynamic track that features rapid tempo changes and intricate guitar solos, setting a complex tone.
Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections, allowing for improvisation and exploration of themes.
The use of synthesizers is prominent throughout, creating ethereal soundscapes that contrast with the more traditional rock instrumentation.

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Phasors on Stun 3:49
2 One O'Clock Tomorrow 6:05
3 Hours 2:36
4 Journey 4:41
5 Dialing for Dharma 3:15
6 Slaughter in Robot Village 5:02
7 Aldebaran 5:02
8 Black Noise 9:56

What to play next

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Direct to Disc

1978

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Transformation

Full FM discography Artists like FM

progressive rock space rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata