What makes Noch by Kino notable?

Noch garnered critical acclaim and became a defining album within the Soviet rock movement, influencing countless artists who followed. The track 'Последний герой' became particularly emblematic, resonating deeply with listeners and showcasing the band's ability to comment on societal themes through music. Released in 1986, Noch was Kino's second album and marked their emergence as significant voices in the Soviet rock scene. Following their debut, this record solidified their sound and thematic focus on social issues, reflecting a growing artistic freedom in the USSR during the late 1980s.

Noch works well if you're into haunting melodies for introspection, dynamic shifts in emotional intensity and engaging danceable rhythms throughout.

How many songs are on Noch?

Noch has 15 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Noch

Kino · 1986

58 min · 15 tracks · new wave

A vibrant fusion of new wave and post-punk, blending melodic hooks with an underlying tension reflective of Soviet-era angst.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Последний герой — This track encapsulates the band's signature blend of catchy melodies and poignant lyrics, addressing themes of heroism and disillusionment in a changing society.
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Ночь — The haunting atmosphere and introspective lyrics create an evocative exploration of night-time solitude, making it a standout representation of the album's emotional depth.
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Мама Анархия — This song combines playful rebellion with a catchy chorus, embodying the spirit of youthful dissent that characterized much of Kino's work during this period.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

Kino's 'Noch' blends melodic hooks with social themes, marking it as a significant work in Soviet rock.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a brisk tempo, while the sixth track introduces a slower, more contemplative mood that persists through the next few songs.
Melodic hooks are prominent in nearly every track, often layered with guitar riffs that create a sense of tension and urgency.
Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel of the music and engaging listeners directly.

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

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 melodies for introspection
dynamic shifts in emotional intensity
engaging danceable rhythms throughout
late-night listening with friends
sing-along moments that invite participation

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, predictable tracks
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1986, Noch was Kino's second album and marked their emergence as significant voices in the Soviet rock scene. Following their debut, this record solidified their sound and thematic focus on social issues, reflecting a growing artistic freedom in the USSR during the late 1980s.
Stylistic neighbors: Kraftwerk· Depeche Mode· The Cure