Essential electronic music listening

The albums that define electronic music.

Our picks for where to start with electronic music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The electronic music essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Push the Button

The Chemical Brothers

Push the Button

Pulsating beats and swirling synths create a kaleidoscopic journey through electronic soundscapes and rhythmic grooves.

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1996

Ryuichi Sakamoto

1996

A lush tapestry of electronic textures and orchestral arrangements that evoke deep emotional landscapes.

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Phaedra

Tangerine Dream

Phaedra

A hypnotic blend of electronic textures and ethereal soundscapes that transports listeners into a dreamlike state.

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It's Classy, Not Classic

Breathe Carolina

It's Classy, Not Classic

Eclectic electronic beats blend with pop-infused rock melodies, creating a vibrant party atmosphere throughout the album.

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Amor Amarillo

Gustavo Cerati

Amor Amarillo

A vibrant blend of alternative rock and art pop, infused with introspective lyrics and lush melodies.

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Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2

Calvin Harris

Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2

A sun-soaked fusion of dance-pop and funky grooves that invites listeners to embrace carefree summer vibes.

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Ready for the Weekend

Calvin Harris

Ready for the Weekend

Energetic dance beats meet euphoric melodies, creating an irresistible soundtrack for nightlife and celebration.

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Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1

Calvin Harris

Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1

A sun-soaked blend of dance-pop and nu-disco grooves perfect for carefree summer vibes.

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Motion

Calvin Harris

Motion

A vibrant fusion of dance-pop and electro house that masterfully blends euphoric melodies with infectious beats.

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18 Months

Calvin Harris

18 Months

An electrifying blend of dance-pop and electro house that pulsates with infectious energy and vibrant hooks.

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96 Months

Calvin Harris

96 Months

A vibrant blend of dance-pop and electro house, pulsating with infectious beats and euphoric melodies.

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FOREVERANDEVERNOMORE

Brian Eno

FOREVERANDEVERNOMORE

Ethereal soundscapes blend with reflective melodies, creating a tranquil yet thought-provoking listening experience.

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Before and After Science

Brian Eno

Before and After Science

A kaleidoscopic blend of ambient soundscapes and art pop that challenges conventional song structures.

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The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

David Bowie

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

This album serves as the introduction to Bowie's world, combining compelling storytelling with diverse musical styles. It captures the essence of Bowie's alter ego Ziggy Stardust, making it a captivating starting point for new listeners.

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...I Care Because You Do

Aphex Twin

...I Care Because You Do

A chaotic blend of intricate rhythms and haunting melodies that redefine electronic music's boundaries.

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Drukqs

Aphex Twin

Drukqs

A sprawling mosaic of intricate beats and melancholic piano melodies that defy genre boundaries.

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Syro

Aphex Twin

Syro

A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate rhythms and haunting melodies that redefine electronic music's boundaries.

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Selected Ambient Works 85–92

Aphex Twin

Selected Ambient Works 85–92

Ethereal soundscapes blend with intricate rhythms, creating a dreamlike yet immersive auditory experience.

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Brotherhood

The Chemical Brothers

Brotherhood

A pulsating blend of electronic beats and catchy hooks that encapsulates the duo's vibrant energy.

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No Geography

The Chemical Brothers

No Geography

A vibrant collision of psychedelic beats and euphoric melodies that beckons listeners to dance without restraint.

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We Are the Night

The Chemical Brothers

We Are the Night

Euphoric beats meld with psychedelic elements, delivering a danceable journey through nightfall's vibrant energy.

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Further

The Chemical Brothers

Further

A vibrant fusion of psychedelic sounds and driving beats, pushing the boundaries of electronic music exploration.

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Born in the Echoes

The Chemical Brothers

Born in the Echoes

A pulsating blend of electronic textures and hypnotic rhythms that invite listeners to dance and reflect simultaneously.

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D-Sides

Gorillaz

D-Sides

A kaleidoscopic blend of eclectic sounds and genres showcasing Gorillaz's adventurous spirit and collaborative ethos.

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