What makes The Big Machine by Émilie Simon notable?

The Big Machine received widespread acclaim for its innovative production and lyrical content, solidifying Simon's standing in the electronic music landscape. It also showcased her ability to seamlessly fuse pop and experimental elements, influencing a generation of artists in the French electronic scene. The album was recognized for its artistic merit, leading to nominations for prestigious awards in France. The Big Machine marked Émilie Simon's third studio album, following her successful self-titled debut and the orchestral-heavy Végétal. By this point in her career, she was establishing herself as a unique voice in the French electronic scene, blending pop sensibilities with experimental soundscapes. This album continued to build on her distinct style, further exploring thematic depth and sonic experimentation.

Who is The Big Machine for?

The Big Machine works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, dreamy, introspective soundscapes and surreal auditory journeys.

How many songs are on The Big Machine?

The Big Machine has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

The Big Machine

Émilie Simon · 2009

47 min · 12 tracks · electronic music

A whimsical yet haunting blend of electronic textures and ethereal vocals that journey through dreams and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rainbow — This opening track sets the tone with its vibrant synths and uplifting melodies, encapsulating the album's explorative spirit while showcasing Simon's enchanting vocal delivery.
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Ballad of the Big Machine — The title track offers a reflective narrative intertwined with a rich sonic landscape, highlighting Simon's lyrical prowess and thematic depth surrounding technology and human connection.
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The Devil at My Door — This track stands out with its darker tones and introspective lyrics, illustrating a compelling juxtaposition within the album’s overall dreamy aesthetic.

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

The album combines innovative production with a unique blend of pop and experimental sounds, creating an engaging listening experience.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that build gradually in intensity, while the second half shifts to more introspective and subdued pieces.
Several tracks incorporate layered electronic textures that create a dreamlike atmosphere, often blending vocals with instrumental elements.
The album includes moments where the tempo drops significantly, allowing for pauses that enhance the emotional weight of the music.

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 4/10

Known within its scene. 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
dreamy, introspective soundscapes
surreal auditory journeys
mid-tempo reflective moments

Where this album fits

Career context: The Big Machine marked Émilie Simon's third studio album, following her successful self-titled debut and the orchestral-heavy Végétal. By this point in her career, she was establishing herself as a unique voice in the French electronic scene, blending pop sensibilities with experimental soundscapes. This album continued to build on her distinct style, further exploring thematic depth and sonic experimentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Air· Zero 7· Lana Del Rey