About this album
Where they were
By 1993, Billy Idol was transitioning from his 1980s pop-punk fame to embrace a more industrial and electronic sound with 'Cyberpunk'. This album marked Idol's first major release after a five-year hiatus following 'Charmed Life' in 1990, showcasing his experimentation with emerging technology and musical styles.
Why it matters
'Cyberpunk' is significant for its prescient themes and incorporation of digital influences, though it received mixed reviews upon release. It peaked at number 24 on the Billboard 200, indicating a notable commercial presence during a period when Idol was navigating the changing music landscape.
Essential tracks
- "Shock to the System" — This track exemplifies the album's fusion of hard rock energy and electronic textures, with lyrics that critique modern society.
- "Wasteland" — 'Wasteland' serves as a powerful opener, setting a tone of desolation and reflection that permeates throughout the album.
- "Neuromancer" — Named after William Gibson’s seminal cyberpunk novel, this track captures the essence of the genre's themes of technology and alienation.
- "Tomorrow People" — This track blends anthemic melodies with futuristic lyrical content, representing hope amidst chaos in a digitally dominated world.
Release Date
June 29, 1993
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Intro 1:02
- 2 Wasteland 4:35
- 3 Segue L.A. Riots 0:19
- 4 Shock to the System 3:34
- 5 Tomorrow People 5:07
- 6 Adam in Chains 6:24
- 7 Neuromancer 4:36
- 8 Power Junkie 4:47
- 9 Segue Prayer 0:27
- 10 Love Labours On 3:53
- 11 Heroin 6:57
- 12 Segue Injection 0:23
- 13 Shangrila 7:25
- 14 Concrete Kingdom 4:52
- 15 Segue Virtual Reality 0:39
- 16 Venus 5:47
- 17 Then the Night Comes 4:37
- 18 Segue Electronic Presence 0:26
- 19 Mother Dawn 5:03
- 20 Outro 0:56