One of the most unusual – and as a result, artistically intriguing – followups to early commercial success out there, YMO’s short third release ×∞ Multiplies wasn’t just them, but their songs interspersed between a variety of sketches by a Japanese radio comedy team, Snakeman Show, who soon began their own recording career. YMO’s own efforts shift between their ear for covers (most notably their amazing take on Archie Bell’s “Tighten Up”) and more of their nervously elegant originals such as “Nice Age” and the ska-tinged “Citizens of Science.”

– Ned Raggett