Information cover

Information

Berlin · 1980

39 min · 10 tracks · new wave

A slick blend of synth-driven melodies and provocative lyrics, capturing the essence of early 80s new wave.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Mind Control — Opening with pulsating synths and a catchy hook, this track sets the tone for the album, encapsulating its thematic exploration of manipulation and societal pressures.
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    Modern World — With its critique of contemporary society wrapped in infectious melodies, this song exemplifies Berlin's skill at merging pop sensibilities with deeper messages.
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    Fascination — This track stands out for its hypnotic rhythm and seductive lyrics, highlighting the band's ability to create an alluring atmosphere while addressing darker themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

Berlin's polished new wave sound is evident, but it lacks the depth and cohesion of their later works.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, creating a rich texture that contrasts with the starkness of the instrumentation.
  • The album includes abrupt tempo changes, such as the shift from the upbeat 'Modern World' to the more subdued 'City Lights,' which alters the emotional landscape.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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 urban exploration
  • catchy rhythms for casual listening
  • reflective moments of disillusionment
  • engaging melodies for focus
  • for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer abstract soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1980, Information marked Berlin's third studio album, following their acclaimed debut, Pleasure Victim. At this point in their career, the band was transitioning into a more polished sound that would define their future hits, showcasing their growing confidence in songwriting and production.
Stylistic neighbors
Kraftwerk· Depeche Mode· New Order

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Mind Control 3:09
  • 2 Modern World 3:54
  • 3 Overload 4:17
  • 4 City Lights 4:38
  • 5 Information 4:30
  • 6 Talk Talk Video 3:25
  • 7 Fascination 4:00
  • 8 A Matter of Time 4:09
  • 9 Middle Class Suicide 3:20
  • 10 Uncle Sam 3:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata