The Pleasure Principle
Gary Numan · 1979
69 min · 17 tracks · electronic · new wave · synth-pop
A pioneering blend of mechanized synths and hypnotic rhythms that defined the early electronic soundscape.
Why this album works
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions hypnotic rhythmic exploration thoughtful late-night reflections
- Context
- Released on September 7, 1979, 'The Pleasure Principle' was Gary Numan's third studio album and marked his transition into a more commercial sound following the success of his debut album, 'Tubeway Army'. This album solidified Numan's status as a leading figure in the emerging synth-pop genre during the late 1970s, showcasing his innovative use of synthesizers and distinctive vocal style.
- If you like
- electronic, new wave, synth-pop
The Pleasure Principle is an album by Gary Numan, released in 1979. A pioneering blend of mechanized synths and hypnotic rhythms that defined the early electronic soundscape. 'The Pleasure Principle' features the hit single 'Cars,' which reached number one in several countries and became a defining track of the synth-pop movement. The album received critical acclaim for its groundbreaking production and is often credited with influencing future generations of electronic musicians, cementing Numan's legacy in music history. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Pleasure Principle sound like?
A pioneering blend of mechanized synths and hypnotic rhythms that defined the early electronic soundscape. Rooted in electronic and new wave.
What makes The Pleasure Principle by Gary Numan notable?
'The Pleasure Principle' features the hit single 'Cars,' which reached number one in several countries and became a defining track of the synth-pop movement. The album received critical acclaim for its groundbreaking production and is often credited with influencing future generations of electronic musicians, cementing Numan's legacy in music history. Released on September 7, 1979, 'The Pleasure Principle' was Gary Numan's third studio album and marked his transition into a more commercial sound following the success of his debut album, 'Tubeway Army'. This album solidified Numan's status as a leading figure in the emerging synth-pop genre during the late 1970s, showcasing his innovative use of synthesizers and distinctive vocal style.
Who is The Pleasure Principle for?
The Pleasure Principle works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, hypnotic rhythmic exploration and thoughtful late-night reflections.
How many songs are on The Pleasure Principle?
The Pleasure Principle has 17 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Airlane 3:18
- 2 Metal Standout 3:32
- 3 Complex Standout 3:12
- 4 Films 4:09
- 5 M.E. 5:37
- 6 Tracks 2:51
- 7 Observer 2:53
- 8 Conversation 7:36
- 9 Cars Standout 3:58
- 10 Engineers 4:01
- 11 Random 3:49
- 12 Oceans 3:03
- 13 Asylum 2:31
- 14 Me! I Disconnect From You (live) 3:06
- 15 Bombers (live) 5:46
- 16 Remember I Was Vapour (live) 4:46
- 17 On Broadway (live) 4:46
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