World Machine

Level 42 | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 25, 1990)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Fontana Polydor
• ASIN: B000001FJW
• Also Available in: Audio CD  |  Audio Cassette  |  Vinyl  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (26 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #83,899 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding!! Jazz-Funk fans, do not miss out on this one!!!, December 21, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: World Machine (Audio CD)

I had the good fortune to be stationed with the Air Force in the U.K. from 1982 to 1984, and discovered Level 42 at that time through a co-worker. They had three albums out, and had come out with a fourth, "Standing in the Light", and I quickly snapped up copies of each. People in Britain and Europe were just getting around to discovering this group's talent. Mark King's bass playing is incredible, no other word describes it. Piano/synth and percussion are skilfully arranged and perfectly complement the guitar and saxophone performances. Everyone I had listen to them became an instant fan. Upon return to the U.S., I eagerly awaited "World Machine"'s release in summer 1985 and was not disappointed. This album to me represents the culmination of the Level 42 style demonstrated in their four previous outings, the kick-ass jazzy-funky instrumentals, uptempo vocals mixed with heart-moving ballads, and bona-fide dance club hits. I could play this album and the others over and over and never get tired of listening to them. I'd be hard-pressed to single out any song in particular on "World Machine", they all have elements that appeal equally to Level 42 fans. "Something About You" and "Leaving Me Now" have playability for Top-40 radio, but the title cut is a high-energy, hard-driving piece of work on which the band members outdo themselves. It's a shame the band has broken up, I'd dearly love for the band members to sign the LP covers I have of their first six albums, the rest are I have are on CD. Jazz fans everywhere, I strongly advise purchase of this recording, it's well worth it!!!

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Happy memories, September 14, 2000

By 

Philip MURRAY (Sydney, AUSTRALIA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: World Machine (Audio CD)

For many reasons,1985 was the happiest time of my life...and when I think of that year, immdeiately Level 42's "World Machine" comes to mind. The album features a wonderful blend of that unique jazz/funk sound which fans came to know, love and really only identify with the band, as well as some deep, and seemingly very personal moments. Such tracks as "Lying Still" and "Good Man in a Storm" (incidently, my favoutites from the album) leave a most eerie yet calming refrain. Two massive hits, "Something About You" (which went top 10 in the USA) and "Leaving Me Now" feature on the album This is a record that grows on you the more it's played. Try it, friends....you won't regret it! Phil MURRAY

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Level 42's Best Album, November 6, 2002

By 

Eric Dapkewicz (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: World Machine (Audio CD)

This is without a doubt, one of my favorite albums of the 1980's. I'm sure most everyone knows the song "Something About You", which was one of Level 42's biggest hits. But if that's the only song you know from this album, then you're missing out on a lot. "Leaving Me Now" is the best track on this album. A gut wrenching ballad that has one of the best endings to a song, I've ever heard. "Hot Water", "World Machine" and "Chant Has Begun" are all upbeat tracks which are easy to get into. "Lying Still" and "Good Man In A Storm" are slower paced, but fantastic additions. The music has a pop/jazz/funk feel to it, which is not something you hear everyday. Did I mention the musicians are some of the best? Mark King's bass playing and Phil Gould's drum work is just another added addition to yet an already wonderful piece of work.