What makes Softs by Soft Machine notable?

Softs received acclaim for its innovative fusion of jazz and rock elements, contributing to the progressive rock movement in the 1970s. The album is often noted for its critical reception, including a feature in influential publications like Melody Maker, highlighting its unique sound within the Canterbury scene. Released in June 1976, Softs marked the seventh studio album for Soft Machine. By this time, the band had evolved significantly from their earlier jazz-oriented sound, embracing a more rock-influenced approach, especially following lineup changes that saw them move away from founding members like Robert Wyatt.

Softs works well if you're into wave-like pacing with resolution, ethereal soundscapes for reflection and dynamic exploration of themes.

How many songs are on Softs?

Softs has 11 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

Softs

Soft Machine · 1976

45 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock

A fluid blend of intricate melodies and improvisational rhythms that encapsulates the experimental spirit of the Canterbury scene.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Tale of Taliesin — This track showcases the band's intricate arrangements and complex time signatures, embodying their signature blend of jazz and rock influences.
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Ban Ban Caliban — An expansive piece that highlights Soft Machine's improvisational prowess and lyrical storytelling, making it a standout example of their artistic evolution.
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Song of Aeolus — This track combines ethereal melodies with rich harmonies, showcasing the band's ability to create atmospheric soundscapes that transport listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

Softs showcases intricate compositions and strong musicianship, making it a notable entry in the progressive rock genre.

What we noticed

The album features extended instrumental sections where improvisation takes precedence, particularly in tracks like 'Nexus' and 'Kayoo'.
The opening track, 'Aubade', sets a contemplative tone with its gradual build-up of melodic layers before transitioning into more complex arrangements.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

wave-like pacing with resolution
ethereal soundscapes for reflection
dynamic exploration of themes
short interludes for contemplation

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in June 1976, Softs marked the seventh studio album for Soft Machine. By this time, the band had evolved significantly from their earlier jazz-oriented sound, embracing a more rock-influenced approach, especially following lineup changes that saw them move away from founding members like Robert Wyatt.
Stylistic neighbors: Can· King Crimson· Hatfield and the North

Tracklist

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

1 Aubade 1:51
2 The Tale of Taliesin 7:17
3 Ban Ban Caliban 9:22
4 Song of Aeolus 4:31
5 Out of Season 5:32
6 Second Bundle 2:37
7 Kayoo 3:27
8 The Camden Tandem 2:01
9 Nexus 0:49
10 One Over the Eight 5:31
11 Etika 2:21

What to play next

Listen next

Rubber Riff

1976

Go back to

Bundles

1975

Full Soft Machine discography Artists like Soft Machine

jazz rock progressive rock psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata