Why this album works
- Best for
- short, engaging listening bursts melodic hooks and catchy rhythms dynamic emotional narratives
- Context
- Released on January 1, 1987, 'Alphabet City' is ABC's fourth studio album and marks a significant commercial rebound following the underwhelming performance of their previous album, 'How to Be a Zillionaire!'. This album showcases a more polished sound as the band sought to reclaim their status in the pop landscape, leveraging their signature blend of catchy hooks and sophisticated production.
- If you like
- new wave
Alphabet City is an album by ABC, released in 1987. A vibrant fusion of slick pop melodies and new wave synth textures, capturing the essence of late '80s optimism. 'Alphabet City' produced the hit single 'When Smokey Sings', which reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, enhancing ABC's visibility in the US market. Its critical reception was favorable, with many reviewers noting its infectious energy and lyrical wit, solidifying ABC's place within the new wave genre during this period. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Alphabet City sound like?
A vibrant fusion of slick pop melodies and new wave synth textures, capturing the essence of late '80s optimism. Rooted in new wave.
What makes Alphabet City by ABC notable?
'Alphabet City' produced the hit single 'When Smokey Sings', which reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, enhancing ABC's visibility in the US market. Its critical reception was favorable, with many reviewers noting its infectious energy and lyrical wit, solidifying ABC's place within the new wave genre during this period. Released on January 1, 1987, 'Alphabet City' is ABC's fourth studio album and marks a significant commercial rebound following the underwhelming performance of their previous album, 'How to Be a Zillionaire!'. This album showcases a more polished sound as the band sought to reclaim their status in the pop landscape, leveraging their signature blend of catchy hooks and sophisticated production.
Who is Alphabet City for?
Alphabet City works well if you're into short, engaging listening bursts, melodic hooks and catchy rhythms and dynamic emotional narratives.
How many songs are on Alphabet City?
Alphabet City has 15 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Avenue A 0:53
- 2 When Smokey Sings Standout 4:18
- 3 The Night You Murdered Love Standout 4:53
- 4 Think Again 3:40
- 5 Rage and Then Regret Standout 3:33
- 6 Ark-Angel 4:55
- 7 King Without a Crown 4:40
- 8 Bad Blood 3:56
- 9 Jealous Lover 3:36
- 10 One Day 5:35
- 11 Avenue Z 0:42
- 12 Minneapolis 2:55
- 13 When Smokey Sings (The Miami mix) 7:03
- 14 The Night You Murdered Love (The Whole Story) 8:14
- 15 Chicago (Abridged) 3:40
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