“808 State’s debut album, ‘Newbuild,’ is a significant milestone not only in the band’s career but also in the broader narrative of electronic music evolution. Emerging from the vibrant musical landscape of Manchester in the late 1980s, ‘Newbuild’ served as a beacon of innovation and experimentation in a genre rapidly gaining traction worldwide. As the title suggests, the album represented a fresh start, a bold exploration into uncharted sonic territories that would come to define the sound of a generation.

In the context of its release year, 1988, ‘Newbuild’ arrived amidst a cultural revolution fueled by the rise of acid house and techno music. It was a time when underground clubs and warehouses pulsated with the hypnotic beats of electronic synthesis, and 808 State emerged as torchbearers of this burgeoning movement. With ‘Newbuild,’ the group showcased their adeptness at blending elements of house, techno, and electro-funk into a cohesive sonic tapestry that resonated with listeners on both sides of the Atlantic.

The album’s arrival marked a departure from conventional music production methods, as 808 State embraced the emerging technologies of sampling, sequencing, and synthesizing. Their innovative approach to sound sculpting laid the groundwork for a new era of electronic music production, setting the stage for the genre’s exponential growth in the years to come.

Driven by a spirit of sonic exploration, ‘Newbuild’ defied categorization, seamlessly traversing through various musical styles and moods. From the hypnotic rhythms of tracks like ‘Flow Coma’ to the ethereal melodies of ‘Let Yourself Go,’ each composition on the album offered a glimpse into the boundless creativity of its creators. With its pulsating basslines, intricate percussion patterns, and swirling synth textures, ‘Newbuild’ invited listeners on a transcendent journey through sound, leaving an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape.

As we delve deeper into the layers of ‘Newbuild,’ we uncover not just a collection of songs, but a manifesto of artistic vision and creative freedom. It is an album that transcends the constraints of time and genre, resonating with listeners across generations and inspiring countless artists to push the boundaries of sonic experimentation.

In the following sections of this review, we will dissect the musical style, artistic direction, production quality, lyrical themes, and overall impact of ‘Newbuild,’ shedding light on its enduring legacy in the realm of electronic music.”

“808 State’s ‘Newbuild’ album exemplifies the group’s mastery of a diverse range of musical styles within the electronic music spectrum. Rooted in the pulsating rhythms of house and techno, the album also incorporates elements of electro-funk, acid house, and ambient music, resulting in a rich and multifaceted sonic experience.

At its core, ‘Newbuild’ is deeply entrenched in the pulsating beats and infectious grooves of the burgeoning acid house and techno scenes of the late 1980s. Tracks like ‘Flow Coma’ and ‘Narcossa’ are prime examples of this, with their hypnotic basslines, driving percussion, and swirling synthesizer melodies transporting listeners to the heart of a euphoric dancefloor experience. These tracks encapsulate the essence of the acid house movement, characterized by its use of squelchy basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and psychedelic soundscapes.

However, what sets ‘Newbuild’ apart is its willingness to venture beyond the confines of traditional genre boundaries. Tracks like ‘Let Yourself Go’ and ‘Deepville’ showcase the group’s versatility, incorporating elements of ambient and downtempo music to create lush, atmospheric soundscapes that are both introspective and immersive. Here, 808 State demonstrates a deft ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from blissful euphoria to introspective melancholy, through their meticulously crafted compositions.

Furthermore, ‘Newbuild’ also incorporates influences from electro-funk and Detroit techno, as evidenced by tracks like ‘State Ritual’ and ‘Techno Bell.’ These tracks feature funky basslines, crisp drum programming, and futuristic synth melodies, paying homage to the pioneering sounds of artists like Kraftwerk and Juan Atkins while adding a contemporary twist.

In essence, ‘Newbuild’ is a testament to 808 State’s eclectic musical vision, seamlessly blending elements of house, techno, electro-funk, and ambient music to create a truly unique sonic tapestry. By transcending genre boundaries and embracing a diverse range of influences, the album stands as a timeless testament to the creative prowess of its creators and remains a cornerstone of electronic music innovation.”

808 State’s ‘Newbuild’ album showcases a clear and focused artistic direction that reflects the group’s innovative approach to electronic music production. From its inception, 808 State set out to push the boundaries of sound and technology, aiming to create music that was both forward-thinking and emotionally resonant.

One of the defining aspects of the album’s artistic direction is its emphasis on sonic experimentation and exploration. Rather than adhering to established norms or trends, 808 State ventured into uncharted territory, harnessing the capabilities of emerging technologies to craft a sound that was distinctly their own. This fearless pursuit of sonic innovation is evident throughout ‘Newbuild,’ as the group seamlessly blends elements of house, techno, electro-funk, and ambient music to create a cohesive yet diverse sonic landscape.

Furthermore, ‘Newbuild’ also reflects 808 State’s commitment to collaboration and collective creativity. The album features contributions from various members of the group, each bringing their unique musical perspective and expertise to the table. This collaborative ethos not only enriches the album’s sonic palette but also speaks to the group’s democratic approach to music-making, where every voice is given equal weight and importance.

In terms of production, ‘Newbuild’ is a testament to 808 State’s meticulous attention to detail and sonic craftsmanship. Each track is meticulously crafted, with layers of intricate rhythms, swirling synthesizers, and atmospheric textures meticulously arranged to create a sense of depth and complexity. The album’s production quality is a testament to the group’s technical prowess and dedication to sonic excellence, setting a high bar for electronic music production in the years to come.

Overall, the artistic direction of ‘Newbuild’ is characterized by a spirit of innovation, experimentation, and collaboration. It is an album that boldly defies conventions and embraces the limitless possibilities of electronic music, serving as a testament to 808 State’s enduring legacy as pioneers of the genre.

In “808 State’s” debut album “Newbuild,” lyrics take a backseat to the overarching theme of electronic exploration and sonic innovation. As a pioneering work in the realm of electronic music, “Newbuild” primarily focuses on instrumental compositions, with minimal lyrical content. The album delves into the realm of futuristic soundscapes, drawing listeners into a world where traditional song structures are eschewed in favor of intricate rhythms and synthesized melodies.

The absence of traditional lyrical narratives doesn’t diminish the album’s impact. Instead, “Newbuild” relies on its sonic palette to convey a sense of atmosphere and emotion. Tracks like “Flow Coma” and “Narcossa” exemplify this approach, with pulsating beats and hypnotic synth lines guiding the listener on a journey through the depths of electronic sound.

While the lack of lyrical content may seem limiting, it actually allows for greater listener interpretation and engagement. Without explicit themes or narratives, each listener can project their own emotions and experiences onto the music, creating a highly personal connection with the album.

Overall, “Newbuild” demonstrates that lyrics are not always necessary for conveying depth and emotion in music. Through its innovative soundscapes and experimental compositions, the album transcends the need for traditional lyrical content, offering a unique and immersive listening experience.

“808 State’s” “Newbuild” album stands as a testament to exceptional production quality, showcasing the pioneering work of the group in the realm of electronic music. Released in 1988, at a time when electronic music was still in its infancy, “Newbuild” pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the genre, both in terms of composition and production.

One of the most striking aspects of the album’s production is its use of cutting-edge technology for the time. “808 State” made extensive use of early drum machines, synthesizers, and samplers, such as the Roland TR-808 drum machine, which became iconic in shaping the sound of electronic music. These tools allowed the group to craft intricate and innovative soundscapes, blending elements of house, techno, and acid music into a cohesive sonic tapestry.

The production quality of “Newbuild” is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail. Each track is carefully constructed, with layers of synthesized sounds meticulously arranged to create rich and immersive textures. From the pulsating basslines to the shimmering hi-hats and ethereal pads, every element of the production is finely tuned to perfection.

Furthermore, “Newbuild” demonstrates a keen understanding of mixing and mastering techniques, with each track sounding crisp, clear, and well-balanced. The album’s sound engineering is ahead of its time, with a level of polish and professionalism that belies its early release date.

Overall, the production quality of “Newbuild” is nothing short of exceptional. It showcases “808 State’s” mastery of both technology and creativity, setting a high standard for electronic music production that would influence generations of musicians to come.

In “Newbuild,” 808 State demonstrates a masterful command of instrumentation and arrangement, crafting a sonic landscape that is both intricate and captivating. As pioneers of electronic music, the group utilizes a diverse array of synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers to create a rich tapestry of sound that pushes the boundaries of the genre.

The instrumentation on “Newbuild” is characterized by its use of cutting-edge technology for the time. The group makes extensive use of the iconic Roland TR-808 drum machine, known for its distinctive analog sound, to create the pulsating rhythms that drive many of the album’s tracks. In addition to the TR-808, 808 State incorporates a variety of synthesizers and samplers to add depth and texture to their compositions, from the warm, swirling pads of the Roland Jupiter-8 to the gritty, distorted basslines of the TB-303.

The arrangement of the album is equally impressive, with each track carefully structured to maximize its impact. From the hypnotic grooves of “Flow Coma” to the ethereal melodies of “Narcossa,” each composition unfolds with a sense of purpose and direction, drawing the listener in and holding their attention from start to finish. The group demonstrates a keen sense of dynamics, building tension and release throughout each track to create a sense of ebb and flow that keeps the listener engaged.

One of the most notable aspects of the instrumentation and arrangement on “Newbuild” is its willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional song structures. Tracks like “Pacific State” and “Cobra Bora” eschew conventional verse-chorus formats in favor of extended instrumental passages that allow the music to evolve and develop organically. This willingness to break free from traditional constraints is a testament to 808 State’s innovative spirit and willingness to push the boundaries of electronic music.

Overall, the instrumentation and arrangement on “Newbuild” are a testament to 808 State’s skill as musicians and producers. The album showcases their ability to harness the power of technology to create music that is both forward-thinking and emotionally resonant, setting a high standard for electronic music production that continues to influence artists to this day.

In “Newbuild,” 808 State explores the realm of electronic music with a predominantly instrumental approach, resulting in minimal vocal presence throughout the album. However, when vocals are incorporated, they serve as complementary elements rather than focal points, blending seamlessly with the electronic soundscape to enhance the overall listening experience.

One notable track featuring vocal performances is “Let Yourself Go,” where the ethereal vocals, though sparse, add an additional layer of depth and emotion to the pulsating rhythms and hypnotic melodies. The vocals are treated as another instrument in the mix, with their timbre and delivery carefully integrated into the sonic tapestry created by 808 State.

Another instance of vocal usage can be found in “Deepville,” where sampled vocal snippets are sporadically interspersed throughout the track, adding a sense of intrigue and mystery to the atmospheric composition. These vocal snippets serve to enhance the mood of the track rather than convey any specific lyrical content, further highlighting 808 State’s innovative approach to incorporating vocals into their music.

While vocals may not play a central role in “Newbuild,” their strategic placement and manipulation demonstrate 808 State’s ability to use them as effective tools for shaping the overall sonic landscape. By treating vocals as another element to be manipulated and integrated into their compositions, 808 State showcases their mastery of production techniques and their willingness to push the boundaries of traditional songwriting conventions.

Overall, the vocal performances on “Newbuild” may be minimal, but they serve as integral components of the album’s overall sonic palette, adding depth, texture, and emotion to the group’s pioneering exploration of electronic music.

In “Newbuild,” 808 State demonstrates a remarkable sense of flow and cohesion, guiding listeners through a journey of electronic exploration with seamless transitions and a cohesive sonic narrative. Despite the album’s diverse range of tracks and sonic textures, there’s a palpable sense of continuity that ties the album together as a unified whole.

One of the key elements contributing to the flow and cohesion of “Newbuild” is the consistent use of rhythmic motifs and sonic themes throughout the album. From the pulsating basslines to the shimmering synth arpeggios, each track shares common elements that create a sense of sonic continuity from start to finish. This consistency helps to maintain the album’s momentum and keeps listeners engaged as they navigate through its various sonic landscapes.

Additionally, the pacing of the album is carefully crafted to maintain a sense of forward motion while allowing for moments of reflection and introspection. Tracks like “Flow Coma” and “Pacific State” provide energetic peaks that drive the album forward, while more subdued tracks like “Deepville” and “Techno Bell” offer moments of respite and contemplation. This dynamic ebb and flow creates a sense of balance and variety that keeps listeners engaged from beginning to end.

Furthermore, the sequencing of tracks on “Newbuild” is thoughtfully arranged to create a sense of progression and evolution. The album opens with the hypnotic groove of “Pacific State,” setting the tone for the journey ahead, before gradually building in intensity and complexity with tracks like “Narcossa” and “Let Yourself Go.” As the album progresses, the mood shifts and evolves, leading to a satisfying conclusion with the ethereal soundscape of “Deepville.”

Overall, the flow and cohesion of “Newbuild” are a testament to 808 State’s skill as musicians and producers. Through careful attention to detail and thoughtful arrangement, they have crafted an album that is not only a collection of individual tracks but a cohesive sonic experience that invites listeners to immerse themselves in the world of electronic music.

In “Newbuild,” 808 State primarily focuses on their own creative vision, resulting in an album that is predominantly a solo effort. However, while collaborations are sparse, the album does feature some notable contributions from other artists that add depth and diversity to its sonic landscape.

One notable collaboration on “Newbuild” is the track “Let Yourself Go,” which features vocals from Chicago-based house music vocalist Frankie Knuckles. Knuckles’ soulful vocals provide a striking contrast to the album’s predominantly instrumental compositions, adding a human element to the electronic soundscape and injecting a sense of emotion and warmth into the track.

Additionally, while not a traditional collaboration in the traditional sense, “Newbuild” also features samples from a diverse range of sources, including speeches, movies, and other musical recordings. These samples are skillfully integrated into the album’s compositions, adding layers of texture and complexity to the music and further expanding its sonic palette.

While collaborations may not be a focal point of “Newbuild,” the contributions from Frankie Knuckles and other sampled sources play a crucial role in shaping the album’s overall sound and aesthetic. Through these collaborations, 808 State demonstrates their willingness to push the boundaries of electronic music and explore new sonic territories, resulting in an album that is both innovative and engaging.

“Innovation and Originality” stand as central pillars of 808 State’s debut album, “Newbuild.” Released in 1988, at a time when electronic music was still in its formative stages, the album broke new ground and helped shape the future of the genre.

One of the most innovative aspects of “Newbuild” is its pioneering use of technology. 808 State utilized a wide array of electronic instruments and production techniques, including early drum machines, synthesizers, and samplers, to craft a sound that was ahead of its time. Tracks like “Flow Coma” and “Pacific State” showcased the group’s mastery of these tools, with intricate rhythms and complex melodies that pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the genre.

In addition to its technological innovations, “Newbuild” also introduced new sonic textures and musical ideas to the world of electronic music. The album’s fusion of house, techno, and acid influences created a sound that was both familiar and forward-thinking, setting it apart from the more traditional electronic music of the time. Tracks like “Narcossa” and “Cobra Bora” exemplify this innovative spirit, with their hypnotic grooves and otherworldly atmospheres pushing the boundaries of what was possible within the genre.

Furthermore, “Newbuild” demonstrated a willingness to experiment with structure and form, eschewing traditional songwriting conventions in favor of more open-ended compositions. Tracks like “Techno Bell” and “Deepville” feature extended instrumental passages and evolving sonic landscapes, allowing the music to unfold in unexpected ways and inviting listeners on a journey of exploration and discovery.

Overall, “Newbuild” is a testament to 808 State’s innovative spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of electronic music. Through its pioneering use of technology, innovative sonic textures, and willingness to experiment with form and structure, the album remains a landmark achievement in the history of electronic music, inspiring generations of musicians to come.

“Newbuild” by 808 State, while primarily known for its groundbreaking contributions to electronic music, also carries a significant impact and emotional resonance that reverberates through its innovative soundscapes.

The impact of “Newbuild” can be felt in its role as a trailblazer for the electronic music genre. Released in 1988, at a time when electronic music was still finding its footing, the album pushed boundaries and shattered expectations with its bold experimentation and pioneering use of technology. Tracks like “Pacific State” and “Flow Coma” introduced audiences to a new sonic landscape, one that would go on to influence countless artists and shape the future of electronic music.

Beyond its impact on the music industry, “Newbuild” also holds emotional resonance for listeners who have been captivated by its hypnotic rhythms and otherworldly atmospheres. The album’s ethereal melodies and pulsating beats have a transcendent quality that can transport listeners to another realm, evoking feelings of euphoria, introspection, and everything in between.

Moreover, the emotional resonance of “Newbuild” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level, transcending language and cultural barriers to speak directly to the soul. Whether experienced on a dance floor or through a pair of headphones, the music of “Newbuild” has a transformative power that can uplift spirits, evoke memories, and evoke a sense of wonder and awe.

In conclusion, “Newbuild” is more than just a groundbreaking electronic album; it’s a testament to the enduring impact and emotional resonance of music. Through its innovative soundscapes and transcendent melodies, the album continues to captivate audiences and inspire awe, proving that great music has the power to touch hearts and change lives.

“Newbuild” by 808 State, despite its immense influence on electronic music, did not receive widespread awards or recognition in its initial release. However, its impact and significance have been widely acknowledged in retrospect, earning it recognition as a pioneering work in the electronic music genre.

While the album may not have received mainstream awards or accolades at the time of its release, its lasting legacy and influence on subsequent generations of musicians have solidified its place in music history. “Newbuild” is often cited as a seminal work in the development of techno and house music, with its innovative soundscapes and groundbreaking production techniques paving the way for future artists and genres.

Furthermore, 808 State’s contributions to electronic music have been recognized through various honors and retrospectives over the years. The group has received acclaim from critics and fans alike for their pioneering work, with “Newbuild” often cited as one of their most influential albums.

In addition to its critical acclaim, “Newbuild” has also left an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape, with its tracks continuing to be celebrated and revered by DJs, producers, and music enthusiasts around the world. Tracks like “Pacific State” and “Flow Coma” have become iconic anthems of the electronic music scene, earning the album a place in the pantheon of classic electronic albums.

Overall, while “Newbuild” may not have received awards or recognition in its time, its enduring impact and influence on electronic music have cemented its status as a timeless classic. From its innovative soundscapes to its groundbreaking production techniques, the album continues to inspire and captivate listeners, solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in the history of electronic music.

“Newbuild” by 808 State boasts an enduring replay value and leaves a lasting impression on listeners, cementing its status as a timeless classic in the realm of electronic music.

The album’s replay value stems from its rich and diverse sonic palette, which offers something new to discover with each listen. From the hypnotic rhythms of “Flow Coma” to the dreamy textures of “Pacific State,” each track on “Newbuild” invites repeated exploration, revealing hidden nuances and subtleties that may have been missed on previous listens. The intricacy of the production and the depth of the compositions ensure that the album never grows stale, remaining fresh and engaging even after multiple playbacks.

Moreover, “Newbuild” leaves a lasting impression on listeners due to its innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach to electronic music. Released in 1988, at a time when the genre was still in its infancy, the album broke new ground and helped shape the future of electronic music with its pioneering use of technology and its boundary-pushing compositions. Tracks like “Narcossa” and “Cobra Bora” remain as captivating and relevant today as they were upon their release, showcasing 808 State’s visionary approach to music-making.

Furthermore, the emotional resonance of “Newbuild” ensures that it leaves a lasting impact on listeners long after the music has stopped playing. Whether experienced on a dance floor or in the comfort of one’s own home, the album has a transformative power that can uplift spirits, evoke memories, and inspire awe. Its ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level transcends language and cultural barriers, making it a universally beloved work of art.

In conclusion, “Newbuild” by 808 State offers both timeless replay value and a lasting impression, solidifying its status as a landmark achievement in the history of electronic music. With its rich sonic tapestry, innovative spirit, and emotional resonance, the album continues to captivate and inspire listeners, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic electronic albums for years to come.

“Newbuild” by 808 State stands as a monumental achievement in the realm of electronic music, showcasing the pioneering spirit and innovative vision of the group. Released in 1988, at a time when electronic music was still in its formative stages, the album broke new ground and helped shape the future of the genre with its groundbreaking soundscapes and boundary-pushing compositions.

From its hypnotic rhythms to its ethereal melodies, “Newbuild” captivates listeners with its rich sonic palette and immersive atmosphere. Tracks like “Pacific State” and “Flow Coma” transport listeners to otherworldly realms, while “Narcossa” and “Cobra Bora” push the boundaries of what is possible within the electronic music genre. Each track on the album offers something unique and captivating, inviting listeners on a journey of exploration and discovery.

Beyond its innovative sound, “Newbuild” also holds emotional resonance, connecting with listeners on a deeper level and leaving a lasting impression long after the music has stopped playing. Its ability to evoke feelings of euphoria, introspection, and wonder speaks to the power of music as a universal language that transcends boundaries and unites people from all walks of life.

In conclusion, “Newbuild” by 808 State is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the boundless creativity and ingenuity of its creators. With its timeless replay value, lasting impact, and universal appeal, the album continues to inspire and captivate listeners, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in the history of electronic music.