The Electronic Music Authority is a project and site showcasing the greatest 100 house, techno and electronic music records, albums and tracks, of all time. The top 100 ranking is a meta-ranking based on the most relevant polls, lists and rankings from the most reputable music critics and websites (i.e., as ‘authoritative’ as it gets). The site provides detailed descriptions of each record, including information about the artists, recording techniques used, and cultural and historical context, without assuming expert knowledge. The ranking will be updated as time progresses, new records are released and new polls become available.
.
Top 100 Greatest House, Techno and Electronic Music Albums of All Time – Ranking
1 Daft Punk – Homework – Soma
2 Kraftwerk – Trans Europa Express
3 Aphex Twin – Selected Ambient Works 85-92
4 Boards of Canada – Music Has the Right to Children
5 Ricardo Villalobos – Alcachofa
6 Burial – Untrue
7 DJ Shadow – Endtroducing…
8 Massive Attack – Blue Lines
9 Metro Area – Metro Area
10 Daft Punk – Random Access Memories
11 LFO – Frequencies
12 The Prodigy – The Fat of the Land
13 Daft Punk – Discovery
14 LCD Soundsystem – Sound of Silver
15 The Orb – Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld
16 Portishead – Dummy
17 The Prodigy – Music for the Jilted Generation
18 Autechre – Tri Repetae
19 The Chemical Brothers – Dig Your Own Hole
20 Moby – Play
21 The Avalanches – Since I Left You
22 Boards of Canada – Geogaddi
23 Dizzee Rascal – Boy in da Corner
24 Rhythm & Sound – w/ The Artists
25 Justice – Cross
26 Animal Collective – Merriweather Post Pavilion
27 Actress – Splazsh
28 Jon Hopkins – Immunity
29 Porter Robinson – Worlds
30 Brian Eno – Ambient 1: Music for Airports
31 Autechre – Amber
32 The Chemical Brothers – Exit Planet Dust
33 A Guy Called Gerald – Black Secret Technology
34 Aphex Twin – Richard D. James
35 Björk – Homogenic
36 Photek – Modus Operandi
37 Roni Size & Reprazent – New Forms
38 Jan Jelinek – Loop-Finding-Jazz-Records
39 Fennesz – Endless Summer
40 The Other People Place – Lifestyles of the Laptop Café
41 Four Tet – Rounds
42 LCD Soundsystem – LCD Soundsystem
43 Burial – Burial
44 The Knife – Silent Shout
45 DJ Sprinkles – Midtown 120 Blues
46 Jam City – Classical Curves
47 Disclosure – Settle
48 DJ Rashad – Double Cup
49 Jlin – Dark Energy
50 Arca – Arca
51 SOPHIE – Oil Of Every Pearl’s Un-Insides
52 David Bowie – Heroes
53 Kraftwerk – Computer World
54 Mr Fingers – Amnesia
55 808 State – Utd. State 90 / Ninety
56 The KLF – The White Room
57 Jeff Mills – Waveform Transmission Vol. 1
58 Artificial Intelligence (Warp)
59 Black Dog Productions – Bytes
60 Plastikman – Sheet One
61 Polygon Window – Surfing on Sine Waves
62 Underworld – Dubnobasswithmyheadman
63 4 Hero – Parallel Universe
64 Björk – Debut
65 Robert Hood – Internal Empire
66 Aphex Twin – …I Care Because You Do
67 Basic Channel – BCD
68 Goldie – Timeless
69 Pan Sonic – Vakio
70 Tricky – Maxinquaye
71 Air – Moon Safari
72 Carl Craig – More Songs About Food and Revolutionary Art
73 Moodyman – Silent Introduction
74 Squarepusher – Big Loada
75 Autechre – LP5
76 Fatboy Slim – You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby
77 Drexciya – Neptune’s Lair
78 Isolee – Rest
79 Luomo – Vocalcity
80 Radiohead – Kid A
81 2 Many DJs – As Heard on Radio Soulwax Vol. 2
82 Akufen – My Way
83 The Streets – Original Pirate Material
84 Trax Records: The 20th Anniversary Collection
85 Juan Atkins – 20 Years Metroplex: 1985-2005
86 Booka Shade – Movements
87 Hot Chip – The Warning
88 Trentemoller – The Last Resort
89 Carl Craig – Sessions
90 Flying Lotus – Los Angeles
91 Flying Lotus – Cosmogramma
92 Sandwell District – Feed-Forward
93 Shangaan Electro: New Wave Dance Music From South Africa
94 James Blake – James Blake
95 Kuedo – Severant
96 The Caretaker – An Empty Bliss Beyond This World
97 Flume – Flume
98 Voices From the Lake – Voices From the Lake
99 Jessy Lanza – Pull My Hair Back
100 Mat Zo – Damage Control
Method: Meta-ranking of the most reputable rankings of the “best”, “greatest” or “most-influential” electronic music albums of all time (e.g., Slant, Resident Advisor, Rolling Stone, Groove, Pitchfork, Mixmag, Musicradar, AOTY). Point system used: 3 points for each 1st place in a ranking. 2 points for each 2nd place in a ranking. 1 point for being ranked 3rd – 10th, or for being included on an unranked list of 10 or less. 0.5 points for being ranked 11trh – 100th, or for being included on an unranked list of more than 10.
.
100 Greatest House, Techno and Electronic Music Albums of All Time – Chronological Order
1977 – Kraftwerk – Trans-Europe Express – Kling Klang
Genre: Electronic
In 1977, Kraftwerk, Germany’s pioneering electronic music group, released their landmark album, ‘Trans-Europe Express’. Featuring eight tracks, the album showcased a minimalist, sequenced economy of sound that captivated listeners with its deadpan, robotic aesthetic. Standout songs include the title track, ‘Showroom Dummies’, ‘Metal on Metal’, and the mesmerizing ‘Europe Endless’. The album’s influence was far-reaching, with artists from various genres acknowledging its impact. In America, Afrika Bambaataa’s foundational hip-hop song ‘Planet Rock’ sampled the title track, while Juan Atkins’ electro hit ‘Clear’ referenced ‘Hall of Mirrors’. UK electronic pop stars such as OMD and The Human League also recognized Kraftwerk’s contributions. The album’s hypnotic, futuristic sounds influenced artists across rock, hip-hop, and pop, including Radiohead, Jay Dee, and Madonna. Ultimately, ‘Trans-Europe Express’ stands as a testament to Europe’s rich musical innovation and the birth of an entire generation of electronic music.
.
1991 – LFO – Frequencies – Warp
Genre: Techno
In 1990, Sheffield-based Warp Records released a debut EP from Leeds Uni students Mark Bell and Gez Varley, who worked together under the moniker LFO. Their eponymous single, ‘LFO,’ peaked at number 12 on the UK singles chart, propelling both the duo and Warp Records to fame. The track, known for its heavy bassline, sharp synths, and anthemic spoken word vocal refrain, became a rave anthem and remains popular among DJs today. On 22 July 1991, LFO released their debut studio album ‘Frequencies’ which reached No. 42 on the UK Albums Chart and received universal acclaim. Warp Records signed LFO in 1990 after DJ Martin played their tracks at Leeds Warehouse. Although the album credits were split equally between the duo, Mark Bell stated that he was primarily responsible for the album’s creation since Varley wanted to focus on more direct dance music. The enduring impact of LFO and ‘Frequencies’ demonstrates the duo’s significant contribution to electronic music.
.
1991 – Massive Attack – Blue Lines – Wild Bunch
Genre: Trip-Hop
As the 80s transitioned into the 90s, Massive Attack forged a sonic revolution, inventing what would later be dubbed as “trip-hop” by blending American black music with European dance culture. Their groundbreaking album, ‘Blue Lines,’ is a mesmerizing concoction of soul, dub reggae, film scores, and punk rock, creating a distinctly British (particularly Bristolian) response to US hip-hop. Embracing a slower, more meditative pace, Massive Attack’s innovative sound contrasted sharply with the frenetic energy of rave culture. Comprising Grant Marshall, Robert Del Naja, and Andrew Vowles, the trio collaborated with musical giants like Tricky and reggae legend Horace Andy to birth the iconic “Bristol Sound.” With each track on ‘Blue Lines’ standing out as a masterpiece, the album boasts unforgettable tunes like “Unfinished Sympathy,” “Safe From Harm,” and “Daydreaming.” This timeless, innovative creation marked the genesis of a new era in modern music and solidified Massive Attack’s position as the undisputed trailblazers of trip-hop.
.
1991 – The Orb – The Orb’s Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld – Big Life
Genre: Ambient
The Orb’s groundbreaking album ‘Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld’ set the stage for ambient house music in the early 90s, taking inspiration from Brian Eno’s 70s ambient innovations and the post-disco club culture of the 80s. Seamlessly blending loping house beats, reggae-dub influences, atmospheric sampladelia, and sci-fi narratives, the album’s continuous 1 hour 49-minute journey ushered in a visionary, intergalactic dub sound. With the help of 20 musicians across various studios and sessions, Alex Paterson and his collaborators crafted a magnificent, cohesive sonic experience. From the famous “Little Fluffy Clouds” to the epic, 18-minute-plus “A Huge Ever Growing Pulsating Brain That Rules from the Centre of the Ultraworld,” the album’s tracks immerse listeners in a metaphysical odyssey. ‘Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld’ not only transformed how dance music and DJ sets were perceived and crafted but also provided the blissed-out soundtracks that soothed countless comedowns across the years.
.
1992 – Aphex Twin – Selected Ambient Works 85-92 – Apollo
Genre: Ambient
Richard D. James, also known as Aphex Twin, broke conventions with his early-career masterpiece, ‘Selected Ambient Works 85-92.’ Renowned for its unique textures, the album was created using modified analogue synths, such as the Korg MS-20, and heavily influenced future artists like Squarepusher and Plastikman. The opening track, ‘Xtal,’ is considered one of the most influential ambient tracks of all time, with its ethereal synth trills and angelic whispered vocals. James’ idiosyncratic touch with IDM and acid is also showcased in tracks like ‘Delphium,’ reflecting the early ’90s melodic and emotional ambient acid house sound. Despite its poor sound quality due to being recorded on a cat-damaged cassette, the album has become a landmark in ambient techno alongside the Orb’s ‘Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld’ and Global Communication’s ’76:14.’ James’ minimalist House compositions, influenced by post-classical composers like Philip Glass and Kraftwerk, showcase his pop sensibility and have left an enduring impact on electronic music.
.
1994 – Portishead – Dummy – Go! Beat
Genre: Trip-Hop
Portishead’s debut album, Dummy, is a quintessentially Bristol creation, mingling chilling harbor fog with the haze of a thousand spliffs. Released in 1994, it is considered a landmark album that introduced the trip-hop genre. The core lineup consisted of Geoff Barrow, Adrian Utley, and Beth Gibbons, who fused their diverse musical backgrounds to create a unique sound. With elements of hip-hop, jazz, and electronic music, the album sustains a single, all-enveloping mood characterized by despair. Dummy’s cinematic and filmic influences are evident in its use of samples and vintage instruments, creating an atmosphere of noir-like contrast. While stylish and evocative, the album’s true power lies in its pockets of emptiness and the air between its elements. Gibbons’ haunting vocals add emotional depth and mystery to the tracks, making Dummy a timeless, enigmatic masterpiece.
.
1994 – The Prodigy – Music for the Jilted Generation – XL
Genre: Big Beat
“Music for the Jilted Generation,” the groundbreaking 1994 album by British electronic group The Prodigy, transformed electronic music by blending genres like breakbeat, techno, and hardcore. The album channeled the angst of the era’s youth, reacting to the UK government’s crackdown on rave culture. Essex B-boy-turned-raver Liam Howlett, along with Maxim Reality and Keith Flint, evolved from a rave act into a stadium force, introducing an abrasive rock ‘n’ roll edge to their sound. In doing so, they set the stage for future acts like Chemical Brothers, Chase & Status, Skrillex, Pendulum, and Noisia. The album’s snarling attitude and anti-Criminal Justice Bill sentiment resonated with audiences, as tracks like “Voodoo People” and “Poison” showcased innovative production techniques and infectious hooks. This seminal work cemented The Prodigy’s status as pioneers and left a lasting impact on electronic dance music history.
.
1995 – Autechre – Tri Repetae – Warp
Genre: Electronic
Autechre’s third album, “Tri Repetae,” released in 1995, showcases the beauty of malfunctioning machines and computer glitches through an eerie and robotic metallic sound. The album’s abstract percussion and flashing lasers were ahead of their time, with a lasting impact on experimental music, club music, abstract grime, and techno. The album’s darker and more menacing side had a different appeal than the emotionally driven records of the time, with hints of warmth in the analogue synths that unfolded under the icy surface. “Tri Repetae” achieved experimental machine-precision and funkiness, with deep space funk in tracks like “Leterel” and “Rotar.” Though too challenging for most dance floors, the album was born for that purpose. Two tracks, “Rotar” and “C/Pach,” manifested as samples in jungle pioneer Photek’s music, making “Tri Repetae” a lasting and influential album.
.
1996 – DJ Shadow – Endtroducing… – Mo’ Wax
Genre: Instrumental Hip-Hop
DJ Shadow’s groundbreaking 1996 album, “Endtroducing…,” released on Mo’ Wax, stands as a monumental achievement in the world of electronic music, heralded by critics and fans alike as a genre-defining masterpiece. The album, composed entirely of samples, showcases DJ Shadow’s unparalleled talent for sonic alchemy, as he transforms a vast array of sounds and styles into a cohesive, cinematic journey through hip-hop, jazz, and ambient music. Tracks like “Midnight in a Perfect World” and “Building Steam with a Grain of Salt” exemplify the producer’s deft touch and visionary approach to beat-making, resulting in an auditory experience that is both innovative and timeless. “Endtroducing…” not only set a new standard for instrumental hip-hop but also proved the limitless potential of the art of sampling, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape and inspiring generations of artists to push the boundaries of their own creativity.
.
1997 – Daft Punk – Homework – Soma
Genre: House
Daft Punk’s debut album “Homework,” released in 1997 on Soma, is a timeless classic that defined a generation of dance music. The album is a fusion of house, techno, funk, and disco that was groundbreaking at the time, and still sounds fresh and relevant today. The duo’s innovative use of samples, funky basslines, and driving beats create a seamless blend of tracks that are perfect for the dancefloor. From the opening track “Daftendirekt” to the closing track “Alive,” the album takes the listener on a journey that is both energetic and euphoric. “Around the World” and “Da Funk” are standout tracks that have become anthems of the dance music scene. “Homework” is a true masterpiece that showcases Daft Punk’s raw talent and sets the standard for electronic dance music production. Even after all these years, it remains a must-have for any serious music collector.
.
1997 – The Chemical Brothers – Dig Your Own Hole – Astralwerks
Genre: Big Beat
“Dig Your Own Hole,” the 1997 album by The Chemical Brothers on Astralwerks, is a groundbreaking record that defined the big beat genre in electronic music. The album features heavy breakbeats, distorted synths, and an eclectic mix of samples from various genres that creates an aggressive and psychedelic sound. The album’s opening track “Block Rockin’ Beats” won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance, while “Setting Sun,” featuring Noel Gallagher from Oasis, became a hit single. The album’s critical and commercial success propelled The Chemical Brothers to international fame, cementing their status as pioneers of electronic music. “Dig Your Own Hole” remains an essential listen for anyone interested in the history of electronic music and showcases The Chemical Brothers’ unique ability to blend rock and electronic music in a cohesive and experimental sonic journey.
.
1997 – The Prodigy – The Fat of the Land – XL
Genre: Big Beat
The Prodigy’s 1997 album “The Fat of the Land” is an electrifying fusion of techno, breakbeat, and industrial rock that cemented the band’s status as pioneers of the electronic dance music scene. From the iconic opening track “Smack My Bitch Up” to the high-octane “Breathe” and “Firestarter,” the album is a relentless assault on the senses that never lets up. The album also features collaborations with guest vocalists like Kool Keith and Pop Will Eat Itself’s Clint Mansell, adding an extra layer of intensity to the tracks. “The Fat of the Land” showcases The Prodigy’s signature style of distorted synths, pounding drums, and aggressive vocals, creating an album that is both chaotic and exhilarating. It remains a must-have for any electronic music lover and a testament to The Prodigy’s raw talent and enduring influence.
.
1998 – Boards of Canada – Music Has the Right to Children – Warp
Genre: Downtempo
Boards of Canada’s 1998 album “Music Has the Right to Children” is a dreamlike journey through a soundscape of haunting melodies and eerie atmospheres. The album’s signature sound is a mix of nostalgic samples, analog synths, and intricate drum programming that creates a sense of introspection and melancholy. From the ethereal opening track “Wildlife Analysis” to the mesmerizing “Roygbiv” and “Aquarius,” the album is a hypnotic blend of ambient, IDM, and downtempo that never loses its emotional impact. “Music Has the Right to Children” showcases Boards of Canada’s unique ability to evoke memories and emotions through their music, resulting in an album that is both immersive and intimate. It remains a classic in electronic music history and a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the depths of ambient and experimental music.
.
1999 – Moby – Play – V2
Genre: Electronic
Moby’s 1999 album “Play” is a timeless masterpiece that showcases the artist’s unique talent for blending electronic, rock, and soul music. The album is built around a vast array of samples, ranging from vintage blues and gospel recordings to ambient field recordings, which Moby expertly layers and manipulates with his signature production style. The result is an album that seamlessly blends introspective and melancholic tracks with upbeat dancefloor anthems. From the hypnotic opener “Honey” to the soulful hit single “Porcelain” and the gospel-inspired “Natural Blues,” “Play” offers a journey through a vast array of emotions and styles. The album’s enduring popularity and influence on electronic music history is a testament to Moby’s visionary approach to music production and his ability to transcend genres and create a sound that is both innovative and timeless.
.
2001 – Daft Punk – Discovery – Virgin
Genre: House
Daft Punk’s “Discovery” (2001) is a landmark album in the history of electronic dance music, showcasing the French duo’s ability to blend diverse genres such as house, funk, and pop with ease. With tracks such as “One More Time” and “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger,” the album established Daft Punk as one of the most exciting and innovative acts in the scene. “Discovery” is a concept album, following the journey of a robot named Crescendolls through the galaxy, and its fusion of storytelling and electronic music helped pave the way for new ways to approach dance music. The album’s commercial success and cultural impact are undeniable, with its catchy melodies and iconic music videos inspiring countless artists and shaping the sound of popular music for years to come. “Discovery” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of electronic musicians.
.
2002 – Metro Area – Metro Area – Environ
Genre: House
Metro Area’s self-titled 2002 debut album, released on Environ, is a vibrant and timeless journey through the realms of electro, funk, and disco that has stood the test of time. The duo, Morgan Geist and Darshan Jesrani, seamlessly blend electronic and organic sounds, resulting in an innovative and immersive listening experience. From the hypnotic arpeggiated synth lines of “Miura” to the lush, jazzy atmosphere of “Soft Hoop,” each track is expertly crafted with infectious grooves, catchy hooks, and eclectic influences. The album’s impeccable production and unique soundscapes transport listeners to intimate dancefloors and moonlit nights, making it an essential listen for anyone exploring the roots of modern electronic music. Even two decades later, Metro Area’s groundbreaking debut remains a captivating and influential masterpiece, proving the duo’s talent for creating music that transcends time and resonates with generations of electronic music enthusiasts.
.
2003 – Ricardo Villalobos – Alcachofa – Playhouse
Genre: Minimal
Ricardo Villalobos’ 2003 masterpiece, “Alcachofa,” released on Playhouse, is an avant-garde exploration of minimal techno that remains as fresh and mesmerizing today as it was two decades ago. The Chilean-German producer effortlessly melds intricate rhythms, ethereal soundscapes, and hypnotic grooves to create an album that defies categorization and transcends expectations. The standout track, “Easy Lee,” captivates listeners with its haunting, otherworldly vocals and immersive beats, showcasing Villalobos’ unparalleled ability to craft sonic narratives that linger in the mind long after the music has stopped. Throughout “Alcachofa,” the producer demonstrates a penchant for experimentation and a keen ear for detail, imbuing each track with a distinctive character and depth that rewards repeated listens. A seminal work in the world of electronic music, “Alcachofa” is a testament to Villalobos’ visionary artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and setting a high bar for innovation and creativity.
.
2007 – Burial – Untrue – Hyperdub
Genre: Dubstep
Burial’s sophomore album, “Untrue,” released in 2007, marked a significant shift in the perception and evolution of dubstep. The album showcased Burial’s mastery of sample stitching, transforming the genre’s sharp, machine-room edges into a more touchable, spiritual experience. William Bevan, the enigmatic figure behind Burial, utilized diverse samples ranging from found sounds and video games to re-pitched R&B vocals, which he assembled freehand in audio editor Soundforge. The album’s relatability, showcasing the importance of introversion in dance music, resonated with many listeners and set the stage for a generation of “post-” era artists like Mount Kimbie and James Blake. Today, “Untrue” stands as a timeless classic in dance music history, with its unique blend of 2-step, dubstep, ambient, jungle, and R&B-infused vocals leaving a bold and lasting legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences
.
2007 – LCD Soundsystem – Sound of Silver – DFA
Genre: Indie Dance
James Murphy, the mastermind behind LCD Soundsystem, created “Sound of Silver” by blending ’80s synth-pop, dance-punk, and Detroit techno into a stunning work of heartfelt genius. Recorded in Longview Farm Studios, where Stevie Wonder recorded “Songs In The Key Of Life,” Murphy used a 40-input Trident A-Range console and Logic on a Mac for recording and editing. The album was both critically acclaimed and embraced by indie-rock fans, who resonated with its danceable electro beats, humorous lyrics, and introspective themes on aging and regret. Tracks like “Get Innocuous,” “North American Scum,” “All My Friends,” and “Someone Great” showcase Murphy’s ability to evoke complex emotions through dance grooves, reminiscent of the Pet Shop Boys’ “Introspective.” The album’s effortless sound and diverse tracklist, ranging from funky anthems to melancholic ballads, highlight Murphy’s exceptional talent and the timeless impact of “Sound of Silver.”
.
2013 – Daft Punk – Random Access Memories – Columbia
Genre: House
Daft Punk’s 2013 album, “Random Access Memories,” is a unique piece that has earned its place among the best electronic music albums. With roots in the electronica landscape of the 1990s, the duo continues to surprise and innovate with each new release. This album sees them leaving behind their riff-heavy EDM origins, embracing the sounds and styles of the 1970s and early ’80s. The result is a mix of disco, soft rock, prog-pop, and some Broadway-style pop bombast, all rendered with an astounding level of detail and craftsmanship. The duo collaborates with artists like Nile Rodgers, Pharrell, and Paul Williams to create memorable tracks like “Get Lucky.” Daft Punk seeks to give life back to music through the power of high fidelity and attention to detail, and with “Random Access Memories,” they have succeeded in creating an album that channels the past while remaining relevant in the present. This timeless record is a testament to the duo’s enduring impact on the electronic music landscape.
More to come soon.
.