Antics in the Forbidden Zone cover

Antics in the Forbidden Zone

Adam Ant · 1990

74 min · 21 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of new wave and punk energy, woven with theatrical flair and sharp lyrical wit.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Kings of the Wild Frontier — This track encapsulates the adventurous spirit of the album with its catchy chorus and tribal rhythms, showcasing Ant's knack for combining pop sensibility with punk roots.
  • →
    Stand and Deliver — As one of Ant's signature hits, this song features an infectious hook and clever wordplay, reflecting his theatrical style and charismatic persona.
  • →
    Antmusic — This track serves as an anthem for individuality and self-expression, effectively marrying energetic instrumentation with introspective lyrics about the music industry.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • flamboyant storytelling with energy
  • dynamic peaks and valleys
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • vibrant party atmosphere
  • playful irreverence throughout the album

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, contemplative tracks
  • seek minimalist, stripped-down sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1990, Antics in the Forbidden Zone marked Adam Ant's return to music after a hiatus following the commercial success of his previous albums. This album came during a period of artistic exploration for Ant, as he sought to redefine his sound while still maintaining the flamboyant style that characterized his earlier work.
Stylistic neighbors
Gary Numan· The B-52's· Devo

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Stand and Deliver

    The narrative shifts from playful bravado to a deeper commentary on societal expectations.

    This shift reveals a complexity in Ant's songwriting that juxtaposes carefree melodies with poignant insights about identity and pressure.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Zerox 3:46
  • 2 Whip in My Valise 3:58
  • 3 Car Trouble 3:24
  • 4 Kick 2:06
  • 5 Kings of the Wild Frontier 3:54
  • 6 Antmusic 3:34
  • 7 Dog Eat Dog 3:07
  • 8 Los Rancheros 3:27
  • 9 Killer in the Home 4:18
  • 10 Stand and Deliver 3:33
  • 11 Beat My Guest 3:11
  • 12 Prince Charming 3:16
  • 13 Ant Rap 3:23
  • 14 Desperate but Not Serious 4:12
  • 15 Place in the Country 2:50
  • 16 Friend or Foe 3:21
  • 17 Goody Two Shoes 3:29
  • 18 Strip 3:59
  • 19 Puss ’n Boots 4:02
  • 20 Apollo 9 3:23
  • 21 Vive le Rock 3:39

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata