Before and After Science

Before and After Science. Released in December 1977, this album is the fifth solo studio album by Brian Eno, a renowned English musician, composer, and producer, known for his work with Roxy Music, David Bowie, and Talking Heads. The album features a range of guest musicians, including Phil Manzanera, Robert Fripp, and Percy Jones, and was recorded at Basing Street Studios and Briarwood Studios. Before and After Science is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time, alongside works by The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Velvet Underground.

● Introduction

Before and After Science is a seminal work in the development of Art rock and Electronic music, influencing a wide range of artists, from Kraftwerk and Depeche Mode to Radiohead and Bjork. The album's unique sound is characterized by its use of Synthesizers, Drum machines, and Tape loops, which were innovative at the time of its release. Eno's work on the album was also influenced by his collaborations with David Bowie on albums such as Low and Heroes, as well as his production work with Talking Heads on their album Remain in Light. The album's themes of technology, alienation, and social disconnection have been cited as an influence by artists such as Gary Numan, The Human League, and Heaven 17.

● Background and Context

The late 1970s were a time of great creative ferment, with the emergence of Punk rock and New wave music challenging the dominance of Progressive rock and Guitars. Before and After Science was released in the same year as albums by The Clash, The Sex Pistols, and The Damned, and its experimental sound was seen as a radical departure from the prevailing musical trends. Eno's work on the album was also influenced by his interests in Oblique Strategies, a deck of cards developed by Eno and Peter Schmidt to facilitate creative thinking, and his collaborations with artists such as Russell Mills and Fiona Banner. The album's cover art, designed by Russell Mills, features a photograph of Eno taken by Barney Bubbles, and has been cited as an influence by designers such as Peter Saville and Vaughan Oliver.

● Musical Composition and Style

The music on Before and After Science is characterized by its use of Electronic instrumentation, Tape loops, and Found sounds, which create a sense of sonic experimentation and innovation. The album features a range of guest musicians, including Phil Manzanera, Robert Fripp, and Percy Jones, who contribute to the album's complex and layered sound. Tracks such as Kurt's Rejoinder and Energy Fools the Magician feature intricate instrumental arrangements, while songs like Backwater and By This River showcase Eno's vocal range and emotional depth. The album's sound has been compared to the work of artists such as Kraftwerk, Can, and Faust, and has been cited as an influence by musicians such as Thom Yorke, Bjork, and Four Tet.

● Release and Reception

Before and After Science was released in December 1977 to critical acclaim, with reviews in publications such as NME, Melody Maker, and The Wire. The album was praised for its innovative sound and Eno's bold experimentation, and has since been recognized as a classic of Art rock and Electronic music. The album has been re-released several times, including a 2004 edition featuring bonus tracks and a 2009 edition featuring a remastered version of the original album. The album's influence can be heard in the work of artists such as Depeche Mode, The Cure, and New Order, and has been cited as a key influence by musicians such as Moby, Aphex Twin, and Squarepusher.

● Legacy and Influence

Before and After Science has had a profound influence on the development of Electronic music and Art rock, and its innovative sound and experimental approach have inspired a wide range of artists. The album's themes of technology, alienation, and social disconnection have been cited as an influence by artists such as Gary Numan, The Human League, and Heaven 17, and its use of Synthesizers and Drum machines has been emulated by musicians such as Kraftwerk, Jean-Michel Jarre, and Vangelis. The album's influence can also be heard in the work of artists such as Radiohead, Bjork, and Thom Yorke, who have all cited Eno as a key influence. The album has been recognized as a classic of Art rock and Electronic music, and its influence continues to be felt in the music of today, with artists such as Arca, FKA twigs, and Oneohtrix Point Never drawing on its innovative sound and experimental approach.

● Track Listing and Analysis

The album features ten tracks, including No One Receiving, Kurt's Rejoinder, and By This River. The track listing is as follows: 1. No One Receiving 2. Kurt's Rejoinder 3. Backwater 4. Kings Lead Hat 5. Here He Comes 6. Julie With... 7. By This River 8. Through Hollow Lands 9. Spider and I 10. Energy Fools the Magician. Each track features a unique combination of Electronic instrumentation, Tape loops, and Found sounds, which create a sense of sonic experimentation and innovation. The album's tracks have been praised for their complexity and emotional depth, and have been cited as an influence by musicians such as Thom Yorke, Bjork, and Four Tet. The album's sound has been compared to the work of artists such as Kraftwerk, Can, and Faust, and has been recognized as a classic of Art rock and Electronic music. Category:Electronic music albums Category:Art rock albums