The birth of experimental synth-pop

Given the exceptional sound quality of this new edition (Remastered Version) does not keep you that it is possible that this disc was actually published in 1979. By no means the gloomy sound and original sound ideas of men Marsh and goods by electronic Stone Age. But on the contrary. Many pieces to pressing for outright that some protagonists of the dancefloor and techno scene of the early 90 vorfanden a never-ending source of inspiration here. "The Dignity of Labour, Pt.1" could serve even after a boozy night club as hypnotic Chiller for the wee hours today.

The songs are dominated by mechanical beats and wide synth walls. "Almost Medieval", "Circus of Death" and "Blind Youth" bribe case by pounding rhythms and Oakey`s charismatic vocals. It can certainly be described as ground-breaking as Human League have here merge with simpler pop structures avant-garde electronics. It is also noteworthy that all lyrics are politically motivated and socially critical. An attitude that the synth-pop (and this particular Oakey`s later Human League) came seemingly lost in the course of the 80 completely.

Who even a spark has left for electronic music, will be afflicted with "The Path of Least Resistance" of chronic goosebumps. Such dramatically the impressive synth riff combined with Oakey`s plaintive voice here. Oakey runs on "Reproduction" especially always top form when he moves from higher to lower pitches. So also in "The World Before Last", a sluggish but no less fascinating number.

Another highlight is of course the spectacular "Empire State Human". Here let the Human League synths rattle so right and lead to a driving chorus - terrific!

In addition, Human League surprise with the wayward but fascinating cover version "Morale ....". Disturbing sounds oblique guide here to Oakey`s emotional "... You`ve Lost That Loving Feeling ..."

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"Reproduction" is an amazingly mature debut album for an electronic band. Far more sophisticated and conceptual than the later albums under Oakey. "Reproduction" is at least on par with the subsequent classic "Travelogue", where my former even appear qualtitativ dense. A Pfichtkauf for fans of original synthetic pop music! And an early version of "Being Boiled" `s as a bonus track on top.