Krautrock is the genre for those interested in exploring an early manifestation of cold, motoric and experimental sound. Originating as a deviation from mainstream rock music, Krautrock emerged in Western Germany in the 1960s and flourished in the 1970s. Back then it was so different that the term Krautrock was originally used a dismissive term – now it is a label for a niche genre that is well worth exploring.

If you’re new to Krautrock, Neu!’s self-titled debut album is a great place to start. It heavily relies on the motorik 4/4 beat – the hypnotic rhythm that is the key signature of the genre. Another classic masterpiece is Tago Mago by Can, which is rich in free-form experimentation and heavy rhythms. Perhaps the most mainstream classic is Kraftwerk’s Trans-Europe express, also an important stepping stone for the start of electronic music.

Although Krautrock’s peak was short, it became highly influential for the following decades: David Bowie was so inspired by Krautrock that he moved to Berlin in the late 1970s, other highly influenced famous bands were Radiohead and Daft Punk. Due to its everlasting underground status since its origin, Krautrock is a genre full of unknown, hidden gems. In the newsletter, you can learn more about these lesser explored sides of Krautrock.