1997's
Robot Rock marked a major turning point for
Joy Electric, in their music and popularity. The arrangements on songs like "Monosynth" and "Sugar Rush" are simpler and more open, consisting of a few synth parts instead of the heavily layered style Ronnie Martin and crew favored before.
Robot Rock's minimalist pop leaves more room for Martin's fey, breathy singing, ironically creating an overall bigger sound than their earlier, synth-packed sound. "(We Are) Taking Over," "Monosynth," and "Robot Beat" in particular feature a darker, more ambient side to the group's sound, while "Strawberry Heart" and "Joy Electric Land" are more of the sugary, bouncy pop that
Joy Electric originated. The group's best-selling album,
Robot Rock is also their most accessible and diverse release. ~ Heather Phares