The Sound of the Machine: My Life in Kraftwerk and Beyond

Karl Bartos, a co-composer of some of the most beautiful, era-defining music, has written a book about his life in Kraftwerk, one of the most important bands in modern music. He recalls his post-war childhood, the amazement he felt on first hearing The Beatles, his first bands, his parallel career as a musician and teacher, and his years with Kraftwerk. The book is full of wit and humour and provides a full-blooded insider's account of life inside the Kling Klang studio.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Omnibus Press

A Rough Trade Book of the Year 2022


Karl Bartos, a renowned composer, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his stunning and era-defining compositions. His contributions to The Robots, Computer Love, Neon Lights, Tour De France, and Kraftwerk's 1982 hit single "The Model" showcase his masterful musical touch. In his new book, The Sound of the Machine, Bartos shares candid insights into his life in Kraftwerk, a band widely recognized as one of the most influential in modern music.


Through vivid recollections and witty anecdotes, Bartos takes readers on a journey into the Kling Klang studios during recording sessions. He vividly describes the process, capturing the joy and passion of three talented individuals composing and recording. With a successful solo career spanning 30 years, Bartos reflects on his post-war childhood, his initial fascination with The Beatles, his early bands, his parallel career as a musician and teacher, and his years with Kraftwerk.


He shares his thoughts on the current state of musical culture and expresses his hopes and fears for the future. The Sound of the Machine is a captivating and insightful read, offering a full-blooded insider's account of life inside the world's most influential electronic band. Fans of Kraftwerk will find this book to be a must-read, as it provides a hilarious, cultured, and detailed perspective on the band's history and the man behind the music.


Critics have praised Bartos's writing style, describing it as funny, cultured, and detailed. Classic Rock magazine awarded the book an impressive 8/10 rating, stating that it is "a full-blooded insider's account of life inside the Kling Klang studio. This is a must read for the robots fans." Record Collector magazine also praised the book, stating that it is "a full-blooded insider's account of life inside the Kling Klang studio. This is a must read for the robots fans."


In conclusion, The Sound of the Machine is a must-read for music enthusiasts and fans of Kraftwerk. Karl Bartos's candid and witty storytelling provides a unique perspective on the band's history and the man behind the music. With its captivating insights and entertaining anecdotes, this book is sure to delight and inspire readers of all ages.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915841193