About this album

Sound: "A hypnotic blend of ambient soundscapes and rhythmic pulses that evoke a dreamlike journey through the American landscape."

Where they were

By the time 'Chill Out' was released in February 1990, The KLF had already achieved commercial success with their hit singles like '3 a.m. Eternal.' This album marked a departure from their previous chart-topping sound, embracing a more experimental and ambient style that would redefine their artistic identity and influence electronic music in the years to come.

Why it matters

'Chill Out' is significant for its innovative approach to ambient music, helping to popularize the genre in the early '90s. The album's blend of sampled sounds and field recordings received critical acclaim, and it has been cited as a key influence on future electronic artists, solidifying The KLF's status as pioneers in the genre.

Essential tracks

  • "Madrugada Eterna" โ€” This track epitomizes the album's atmospheric quality, featuring ethereal textures and immersive soundscapes that draw listeners into a contemplative state.
  • "Elvis on the Radio, Steel Guitar in My Soul" โ€” Combining nostalgia and modernity, this track beautifully captures the essence of Americana while seamlessly integrating ambient influences.
  • "3AM Somewhere Out of Beaumont" โ€” At nine minutes long, this standout piece exemplifies the albumโ€™s hypnotic quality, showcasing layered sounds that evoke a sense of wandering through a surreal landscape.

Release Date

February 5, 1990

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Brownsville Turnaround on the Tex-Mex Border 1:47
  2. 2 Pulling Out of Ricardo and the Dusk Is Falling Fast 1:29
  3. 3 Six Hours to Louisiana, Black Coffee Going Cold 3:01
  4. 4 Dream Time in Lake Jackson 2:35
  5. 5 Madrugada Eterna 7:40
  6. 6 Justified and Ancient Seems a Long Time Ago 1:08
  7. 7 Elvis on the Radio, Steel Guitar in My Soul 3:01
  8. 8 3AM Somewhere Out of Beaumont 9:24
  9. 9 Wichita Lineman Was a Song I Once Heard 5:56
  10. 10 Trancentral Lost in My Mind 1:16
  11. 11 The Lights of Baton Rouge Pass By 3:34
  12. 12 A Melody From a Past Life Keeps Pulling Me Back 1:41
  13. 13 Rock Radio Into the Nineties and Beyond 1:26
  14. 14 Alone Again With the Dawn Coming Up 0:16