Black and White
The Stranglers · 1978
48 min · 14 tracks · new wave · punk
A raw blend of punk energy and new wave experimentation, punctuated by sharp lyrical wit.
Why this album works
The album reached number 4 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing The Stranglers' rise as a significant force in the punk and new wave movements. Its provocative lyrics and eclectic style confirmed their departure from standard punk tropes, influencing future bands within the genre and contributing to the evolution of post-punk music.
- Best for
- sharp lyrical wit throughout dynamic range with peaks punchy tracks for quick bursts
- Context
- Released in January 1978, 'Black and White' was The Stranglers' third studio album, following their breakthrough with 'Rattus Norvegicus'. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique sound and growing popularity in the UK punk scene, exploring themes that blended social commentary with dark humor.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· John Cale· The Pretenders· Bryan Adams· Eric Clapton· PJ Harvey· Queen· Paul McCartney
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Tank 2:57
- 2 Nice ’n’ Sleazy Standout 3:13
- 3 Outside Tokyo 2:09
- 4 Hey! (Rise of the Robots) 2:17
- 5 Sweden (All Quiet on the Eastern Front) 2:51
- 6 Toiler on the Sea Standout 5:28
- 7 Curfew 3:16
- 8 Threatened 3:34
- 9 In the Shadows 4:37
- 10 Do You Wanna 2:28
- 11 Death and Night and Blood (Yukio) Standout 2:50
- 12 Enough Time 4:19
- 13 Mean to Me 1:57
- 14 Walk on By 6:21
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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