Album of the Day

Previously released under the title Electric Café, Techno Pop was Kraftwerk’s ninth studio album and their first in five years. By the time of its 1986 release, the German band’s pioneering template of synthesizers plus hook-driven songs had been adopted by the likes of Depeche Mode and Pet Shop Boys – but the originators still led the way. The group’s first with predominantly digital instrumentation (and the last from its “classic” lineup), the collection features a half-dozen minimalist gems including “Musique Non-Stop,” “Sex Object” and “The Telephone Call.” With sly lyrics and club friendly rhythms, the underrated Techno Pop offers an accessible entry point to the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers.