"Metropolis" starts with pulsating "boing" bass effects that continue, while there is simultaneously a rising crescendo in the music. The tension rises until it erupts into a new direction by 1:15. Suddenly, there is a danceable quality, with the introduction of the electronic drum beats and the element of a slight influence from funk music. The melody also ends almost quietly as it began, although more so, as though something eventful had resolved itself. This is clearly more of an upbeat, quick melody, although there is a sense that there is a dilemma throughout. Something is amiss about this metropolis, one may find in their reaction. Perhaps it is a metaphor for corruption, something that is bound to take place in an area with an excessively large population, with so many that do not care for the well-being of others. "Metropolis" may be a danceable, upbeat melody, although there is a genuine sense of uneasiness and paranoia, as though one is wrongfully accused of a crime and being pursued by corrupt authorities through the city, attempting to escape the metropolis before they are judged severely, or even killed for their disobedience. It is very reminiscent of Fritz Lang's 1927 film Metropolis, although that association comes mostly from the title and the occasional lyrics of "Metropolis" to be found here. Kraftwerk's "Metropolis" is a mostly instrumental piece that is very similar to "Spacelab," which precedes it on The Man-Machine album, although instead of bringing to mind the risky endeavors of space exploration, it could recall the fast-paced lifestyle of a city, possibly with a hostile environment that induces a sense of distrust and heightening the urgency of one's actions, with many choices to make. Once "Metropolis" ends, it also transitions into "The Model" very nicely, having brought the melody to an end gracefully, rather than abruptly.
10/10