Daft cover

Daft

Art of Noise · 1986

61 min · 16 tracks · electronic · new wave · synth-pop

A groundbreaking fusion of electronic beats and avant-garde soundscapes that redefine pop music's boundaries.

Why this album works

The album is significant for its role in shaping the sound of electronic music and influencing the emerging genres of synth-pop and new wave. It received critical acclaim, including a nomination for a Grammy Award for Best Electronic/Dance Album, marking a key moment in the recognition of electronic music within mainstream culture.
Best for
wave-like pacing with peaks thought-provoking sound exploration late-night introspective listening
Context
Released on December 15, 1986, 'Daft' was Art of Noise's debut album, following their innovative singles that had already established them as pioneers in sound experimentation. At this point in their career, the group was gaining recognition for their unique approach to music production, blending sampled sounds with instrumental arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors
The Human League· Gary Numan· Cabaret Voltaire

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Love 7:04
  • 2 A Time for Fear (Who's Afraid) 4:45
  • 3 Beat Box (Diversion One) Standout 8:31
  • 4 The Army Now 2:04
  • 5 Donna 1:44
  • 6 Memento 2:12
  • 7 How to Kill 2:43
  • 8 Realisation 1:44
  • 9 Who's Afraid (of the Art of Noise) 4:21
  • 10 Moments in Love Standout 10:19
  • 11 Bright Noise 0:05
  • 12 Flesh in Armour 1:24
  • 13 Comes and Goes 1:18
  • 14 Snapshot 2:34
  • 15 Close (to the Edit) Standout 5:39
  • 16 (Three Fingers of) Love 4:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata