Friend or Foe cover

Friend or Foe

Adam Ant · 1982

39 min · 12 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of new wave and punk energy, laced with Adam Ant's theatrical flair and catchy pop hooks.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Goody Two Shoes — This track became one of Adam Ant's most recognizable hits, characterized by its infectious melody and playful lyrics about social perception. Its success helped establish Ant's solo identity.
  • →
    Desperate but Not Serious — Balancing humor with an engaging narrative, this song highlights Ant's knack for storytelling while maintaining a catchy chorus that resonates with listeners.
  • →
    Friend or Foe — 'Friend or Foe' serves as a thematic centerpiece of the album, exploring themes of trust and relationships through an upbeat and compelling sound that reflects Ant's duality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production while maintaining a distinct new wave sound.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a title track that features a strong, driving beat and layered vocals, establishing a theatrical tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate unconventional instrumentation, such as horns and synthesizers, which add to the vibrant sound palette.
  • The final track features a spoken-word section that contrasts with the preceding music, providing a unique closure.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • catchy melodies for sing-alongs
  • short, engaging listening sessions
  • light-hearted, playful vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on October 1, 1982, 'Friend or Foe' was Adam Ant's first solo album after the breakup of Adam and the Ants. This transition marked a significant shift in his career, showcasing his evolution from band leader to a solo artist seeking broader commercial appeal.
Stylistic neighbors
Gary Numan· The B-52's· Devo

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Friend or Foe 3:22
  • 2 Something Girls 3:52
  • 3 Place in the Country 2:50
  • 4 Desperate but Not Serious 4:14
  • 5 Here Comes the Grump 3:35
  • 6 Hello, I Love You 2:37
  • 7 Goody Two Shoes 3:28
  • 8 Crackpot History and the Right to Lie 2:44
  • 9 Made of Money 3:28
  • 10 Cajun Twisters 2:56
  • 11 Try This for Sighs 3:03
  • 12 Man Called Marco 3:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata