What makes One Second by Yello notable?

One Second includes the iconic track Oh Yeah, which gained significant popularity after being featured in films and commercials. The album showcases Yello's unique fusion of genres, influencing the electronic music scene and contributing to the rise of synth-pop during the late 1980s. Released in January 1987, One Second was Yello's fifth studio album, following their successful 1986 release Stella. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their reputation as pioneers of electronic music, characterized by their innovative sound design and eclectic influences.

Who is One Second for?

One Second works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, playful, surreal listening experience and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on One Second?

One Second has 12 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

One Second

Yello · 1987

53 min · 12 tracks · electronica

A vibrant blend of electronic rhythms and experimental textures, punctuated by playful melodies and distinctive vocal samples.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Oh Yeah — This track became a cultural phenomenon due to its catchy hook and memorable use in media, showcasing Yello's signature sound.
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Moon on Ice — With its atmospheric production and haunting vocals, this track exemplifies Yello's ability to create immersive sonic landscapes.
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Call It Love — This song features a compelling mix of upbeat rhythms and engaging lyrics, reflecting the band's knack for blending pop sensibilities with electronic innovation.
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The Rhythm Divine — This track stands out for its pulsating beats and dynamic arrangements, showcasing Yello's experimental approach to rhythm and melody.

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

Yello's blend of electronic rhythms and playful melodies creates a distinctive sound that stands out in the genre.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered synthesizers, creating rich textures that evolve throughout each track.
Several tracks incorporate vocal samples that are manipulated and processed, adding an experimental edge to the electronic rhythms.
The tempo varies significantly across the album, with tracks like 'Oh Yeah' maintaining a steady groove while others like 'La Habanera' introduce more complex rhythmic patterns.

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

steady, consistent energy levels
playful, surreal listening experience
gradual builds and payoffs
immersive journey through sound

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1987, One Second was Yello's fifth studio album, following their successful 1986 release Stella. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their reputation as pioneers of electronic music, characterized by their innovative sound design and eclectic influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Kraftwerk· Depeche Mode· The Chemical Brothers

Tracklist

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

1 La Habanera 5:14
2 Moon on Ice 4:17
3 Call It Love 5:07
4 Le Secret Farida 3:18
5 Hawaiian Chance 4:21
6 The Rhythm Divine 4:13
7 Santiago 5:49
8 Goldrush 4:21
9 Oh Yeah 3:04
10 Dr. Van Steiner 4:19
11 Si Señor The Hairy Grill 4:55
12 L'Hôtel 3:57

What to play next

Listen next

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1988

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1980–1985 The New Mix in One Go

1986

Full Yello discography Artists like Yello

electronica

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata