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That What Is Not

by Public Image Ltd

Released: February 10, 1992

Alternative rock

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Experimental Album.

The Album

Lyrically, "That What Is Not" explores themes of social commentary, personal reflection, and existential angst. Lydon's lyrics are thought-provoking and often confrontational, touching on topics such as media manipulation, societal hypocrisy, and the search for personal identity. "That What Is Not" is the eighth studio album by English post-punk band Public Image Ltd (PiL), released in 1992.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The album features a mix of musical styles…

The album features a mix of musical styles, including alternative rock, post-punk, and experimental elements.

It marked the end of PiL's initial phase…

It marked the end of PiL's initial phase before the band went on hiatus until reforming in the late 2000s.

Tracks like "Acid Drops," "Criminal," and "Think Tank"…

Tracks like "Acid Drops," "Criminal," and "Think Tank" showcase the band's trademark sound, characterized by John Lydon's distinctive vocals, powerful basslines, and eclectic instrumentation.

Overall, "That What Is Not" stands as a…

Overall, "That What Is Not" stands as a testament to Public Image Ltd's willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of music.

Start listening here

Essential Tracks

Acid Drops

Tracks like "Acid Drops," "Criminal," and "Think Tank" showcase the band's trademark sound, characterized by John Lydon's distinctive vocals, powerful basslines, and eclectic instrumentation.

Think Tank

Tracks like "Acid Drops," "Criminal," and "Think Tank" showcase the band's trademark sound, characterized by John Lydon's distinctive vocals, powerful basslines, and eclectic instrumentation.

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Explore the Album

Public Image Ltd - That What Is Not

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Then

Reception

Upon its release, "That What Is Not" received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its experimental approach and others feeling it lacked the coherence and impact of PiL's earlier work. While not as commercially successful as some of their earlier albums, it remains an intriguing and underrated chapter in the band's storied career.

Now

Legacy

Despite this, the album has since gained a cult following among fans of post-punk and alternative rock.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"That What Is Not" is the eighth studio album by English post-punk band Public Image Ltd (PiL), released in 1992. It marked the end of PiL's initial phase before the band went on hiatus until reforming in the late 2000s.

The album features a mix of musical styles, including alternative rock, post-punk, and experimental elements. Tracks like "Acid Drops," "Criminal," and "Think Tank" showcase the band's trademark sound, characterized by John Lydon's distinctive vocals, powerful basslines, and eclectic instrumentation.

Upon its release, "That What Is Not" received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its experimental approach and others feeling it lacked the coherence and impact of PiL's earlier work. Despite this, the album has since gained a cult following among fans of post-punk and alternative rock.

Overall, "That What Is Not" stands as a testament to Public Image Ltd's willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of music. While not as commercially successful as some of their earlier albums, it remains an intriguing and underrated chapter in the band's storied career.