Author: Monocled Alchemist

  • ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ is the Cure’s first compilation album. Released in February 1980, this album is composed of several tracks from the band’s May 1979 debut album ‘Three Imaginary Boys’ (which had yet to see a US release) with material from the band’s 1978–1979 era.

    The Cure | Boys Don’t Cry | PVC 1980
  • The Church’s self-titled debut album, released in March 1982, features tracks that blend nostalgic elements of rock with a fresh perspective. Known for their jangly guitars and harmonies, the Australian band captures the spirit of sixties hedonism. Their sound, while…

    The Church | The Church (first LP) | (Carrere) 1982
  • The Cure’s single “Primary,” released on March 20, 1981, showcases a consistent musical style characterized by a repetitive chord progression and subdued instrumentation. Critics express disappointment, highlighting a lack of originality and energy, with some deeming the song’s appeal difficult…

    The Cure | Primary | Fiction | 1981
  • The Cure’s single “A Forest,” released in 1980, is viewed as a regression from their earlier work “Jumping Somebody Else’s Train.” Critics describe it as tuneless and pedestrian, though its atmospheric qualities and rhythm section are noted. The song maintains…

    The Cure | A Forest | Fiction | 1980
  • The Jam’s January 1982 single “Town Called Malice”/ “Precious,” produced by Pete Wilson, showcases a mix of early sixties soul and funk. Critics note its derivative nature, with “Town” addressing small-town struggles and “Precious” leaning into a funk sound. Despite…

    The Jam | Town Called Malice | Polydor | 1982
  • The Police’s single “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic,” released on October 16, 1981, is described as catchy but inferior to their previous hit “Walking On The Moon.” Critics noted its lack of depth compared to “Invisible Sun,” labeling…

    The Police | Every little Thing She Does Is Magic | A&M | 1981
  • The Doors, the American rock band’s debut album, was released on January 4, 1967, by Elektra Records. Featuring hits like “Light My Fire” and “The End,” the album blends various musical styles, shaping psychedelic rock’s evolution. It earned critical acclaim…

    The Doors | The Doors (first LP) | (Elektra) 1967
  • U2’s album “October,” released in 1981, showcases the band’s evolution towards a more complex, atmospheric sound. While retaining their dramatic rock roots, the album explores themes of melancholy and spiritual uncertainty. Tracks like “Gloria” highlight Bono’s emotive vocals, while the…

    U2 | October | (Island) 1981
  • This one is closer to the sombre mood of their LPs (first one excepted) than the persistent beat of previous 45’s, and although it’ll doubtless waft them into the lower reaches of the Chart

    The Cure | Charlotte Sometimes | Fiction | 1981
  • “Joan Of Arc,” released by OMD in 1981 with the B-side “The Romance Of The Telescope,” received mixed reviews. Some critics viewed it as a potential grower, while others expressed disappointment, suggesting OMD was losing their edge in electronic pop…

    OMD | Joan Of Arc | Dindisc | 1981
  • The summary of Siouxsie and the Banshees’ compilation album “Once Upon A Time/The Singles” reflects on their evolution in sound and artistry. Featuring notable tracks like “Hong Kong Garden” and “Arabian Knights,” the collection showcases their unique blend of pop…

    Siouxsie and the Banshees | Once Upon A Time/The Singles | (Polydor) 1981
  • “Strange Days” is the second studio album by The Doors, released on September 25, 1967, by Elektra Records. It includes hits like “People Are Strange” and “Love Me Two Times.” The album showcases experimental techniques and various instruments, achieving a…

    The Doors | Strange Days | (Elektra) 1967