The Singles cover

The Singles

Goldfrapp · 2012

54 min · 14 tracks · electronica

A shimmering collection of euphoric electronic pop, blending lush synths with alluring vocals that capture a unique blend of glamour and melancholy.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Ooh La La Start here — This track epitomizes Goldfrapp's signature blend of catchy hooks and electronic flair, becoming an anthem celebrated for its playful lyrics and infectious rhythm.
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    Strict Machine (single mix) — Renowned for its driving beat and seductive lyrics, this song exemplifies the duo's ability to craft dancefloor-ready tracks while maintaining emotional depth.
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    A&E — This hauntingly beautiful track showcases the duo's softer side, with ethereal vocals layered over melancholic instrumentation, creating an emotional high point in their discography.
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    Ride a White Horse (single mix) — With its disco-inspired grooves and clever lyricism, this song stands out as a celebration of liberation and empowerment, reflecting the band's playful yet profound approach to storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album compiles strong tracks with lush production, maintaining a cohesive sound while showcasing Goldfrapp's signature style.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of lush synth textures across all tracks, creating a cohesive soundscape.
  • Vocals are prominent in nearly every track, often layered with harmonies that enhance the emotional impact.
  • The sequencing places high-energy tracks like 'Ooh La La' and 'Strict Machine' at the beginning, followed by more introspective pieces towards the end.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • short, catchy song highlights
  • lush, atmospheric soundscapes
  • dynamic emotional shifts
  • uplifting and reflective moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Starting Point — A compilation of hits that provides a cohesive overview of their sound and success.
Themes
disco-inspired liberation· seductive dancefloor anthems
Career context
Released in early 2012, The Singles compiles Goldfrapp's most impactful tracks from their previous albums, marking a reflective moment in their career as they transitioned from the success of Head First (2010). At this point, they had established themselves as a prominent force in the electronic music scene, known for their eclectic sound and theatrical performances.
Stylistic neighbors
Bat for Lashes· Little Boots· Lana Del Rey

Tracklist

  • 1 Ooh La La Start here 3:25
  • 2 Number 1 3:25
  • 3 Strict Machine (single mix) 3:42
  • 4 Lovely Head 3:47
  • 5 Utopia (Genetically Enriched) 3:51
  • 6 A&E 3:18
  • 7 Happiness (single mix) 3:37
  • 8 Train 4:11
  • 9 Ride a White Horse (single mix) 3:44
  • 10 Rocket 3:52
  • 11 Believer 3:44
  • 12 Black Cherry 4:56
  • 13 Yellow Halo 4:42
  • 14 Melancholy Sky 4:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata