What makes The War Room by Public Service Broadcasting notable?

This EP garnered significant attention for its inventive approach to music-making, combining historical audio samples with original compositions. It was praised by critics, including a favorable review from The Guardian, which recognized its creative ambition and thematic depth. The War Room is Public Service Broadcasting's debut EP, released in January 2012, positioned the band at the forefront of a unique sound blending historical narratives with contemporary music. This project laid the groundwork for their later critically acclaimed full-length albums, showcasing their innovative use of multimedia storytelling in music.

Who is The War Room for?

The War Room works well if you're into short bursts of tension, historical narratives with urgency and thought-provoking soundscapes.

How many songs are on The War Room?

The War Room has 5 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

The War Room

Public Service Broadcasting · 2012

17 min · 5 tracks · synth-pop

A dynamic blend of archival samples and modern instrumentation captures the tension and resilience of wartime Britain.

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Top tracks — play these first

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If War Should Come — Opening with a haunting sample that sets a foreboding tone, this track encapsulates the album's exploration of anxiety surrounding conflict. Its rhythmic build-up and layered instrumentation create an immersive listening experience.
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Spitfire — Incorporating audio from wartime propaganda, this track balances urgency and nostalgia, effectively illustrating the duality of war's impact on society. The soaring melodies echo the resilience and spirit captured in the historical narrative.
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London Can Take It — This track stands out for its infectious energy and defiant spirit, celebrating London's endurance during WWII. The combination of upbeat instrumentation and powerful samples makes it a rallying anthem within the EP.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short bursts of tension
historical narratives with urgency
thought-provoking soundscapes
evocative moments of reflection

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy immersive albums
seek traditional song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: The War Room is Public Service Broadcasting's debut EP, released in January 2012, positioned the band at the forefront of a unique sound blending historical narratives with contemporary music. This project laid the groundwork for their later critically acclaimed full-length albums, showcasing their innovative use of multimedia storytelling in music.
Stylistic neighbors: Battles· The Notwist· Hot Chip

Tracklist

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

1 If War Should Come 4:37
2 London Can Take It 3:27
3 Spitfire 3:55
4 Dig for Victory 3:16
5 Waltz for George 2:23

What to play next

Listen next

Inform-Educate-Entertain

2013

Go back to

EP One

2010

Full Public Service Broadcasting discography Artists like Public Service Broadcasting

art rock synth-pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata