What makes New Wave by Powerman 5000 notable?

The album received positive reviews for its energetic sound and thematic exploration of celebrity culture and societal commentary. It debuted at number 20 on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums chart, solidifying Powerman 5000's enduring presence in the genre despite significant shifts in the music landscape. When 'New Wave' was released in 2017, Powerman 5000 was in a phase of re-establishing their sound after a series of lineup changes. This album marked their return after a five-year hiatus since the release of 'Builders of the Future' in 2014, showcasing a renewed focus on their industrial metal roots while exploring new lyrical themes.

New Wave works well if you're into steady mid-tempo driving rhythms, short bursts of high energy and engaging lyrical commentary throughout.

How many songs are on New Wave?

New Wave has 10 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

Released 9 years ago this October

New Wave

Powerman 5000 · 2017

30 min · 10 tracks · industrial metal

A frenetic blend of industrial metal and punk energy, echoing the rebellious spirit of its namesake genre.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sid Vicious in a Dress — This track stands out for its provocative lyrics that challenge gender norms while delivering a catchy, anthemic chorus that captures the band's signature style.
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David Fucking Bowie — A tribute to the legendary musician, this song combines nostalgia with a high-energy instrumental backdrop, reflecting Bowie's impact on pop culture and music.
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Cult Leader — With its driving rhythm and sharp social critique, this track encapsulates the album's rebellious ethos, addressing themes of manipulation and blind following in modern society.

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

The album combines energetic industrial metal with punk influences, showcasing solid craft but limited long-term appeal.

What we noticed

The album opens with a spoken-word intro that sets a dark, atmospheric tone before launching into high-energy tracks.
Each song features aggressive guitar riffs and rapid drumming, maintaining a consistent tempo throughout the majority of the record.
Several tracks incorporate electronic elements and samples, blending industrial sounds with punk influences.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 driving rhythms
short bursts of high energy
engaging lyrical commentary throughout
for quick listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, atmospheric builds
seek lengthy immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'New Wave' was released in 2017, Powerman 5000 was in a phase of re-establishing their sound after a series of lineup changes. This album marked their return after a five-year hiatus since the release of 'Builders of the Future' in 2014, showcasing a renewed focus on their industrial metal roots while exploring new lyrical themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Static-X· Ministry· Rob Zombie