What makes Metamatic by John Foxx notable?

This album is notable for its influence on the synth-pop genre, paving the way for artists like Depeche Mode and Gary Numan. It received critical acclaim upon release, with tracks like Underpass becoming staples of the era’s electronic music scene. Metamatic was John Foxx's debut solo album, released after his departure from Ultravox, marking his transition from glam rock to a more experimental electronic sound. At this point, he was carving out a distinct identity in the burgeoning synth-pop landscape of the early 1980s.

Who is Metamatic for?

Metamatic works well if you're into haunting atmospheric soundscapes, introspective late-night listening and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Metamatic?

Metamatic has 16 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Metamatic

John Foxx · 1980

60 min · 16 tracks · new wave

A stark fusion of synthetic textures and haunting melodies that encapsulates the dawn of electronic pop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Underpass — The track features an unforgettable synth line and captures the eerie isolation of urban life, making it emblematic of Foxx’s pioneering sound.
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He's a Liquid — With its hypnotic beat and abstract lyrics, this track showcases Foxx's ability to blend unsettling themes with catchy melodies.
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No-One Driving — This song combines driving rhythms with introspective lyrics, reflecting a sense of detachment that resonated with listeners during this era.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Metamatic showcases strong electronic compositions and distinctive production that influenced future synth-pop artists.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent tempo, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and textures.
Synthesizers dominate the sound palette, with layered electronic beats and minimalistic arrangements creating an atmospheric backdrop.
Vocal delivery is often treated with effects, adding to the ethereal quality of the music, particularly in tracks like 'Underpass' and 'No-One Driving'.

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: 8/10
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

haunting atmospheric soundscapes
introspective late-night listening
gradual builds and payoffs
immersive sonic explorations

Where this album fits

Career context: Metamatic was John Foxx's debut solo album, released after his departure from Ultravox, marking his transition from glam rock to a more experimental electronic sound. At this point, he was carving out a distinct identity in the burgeoning synth-pop landscape of the early 1980s.
Stylistic neighbors: Gary Numan· Kraftwerk· Visage