What makes Going Deaf for a Living by Fischer-Z notable?

This album is significant for its critical reception, particularly in the United Kingdom, where it helped Fischer-Z carve out a niche within the post-punk landscape. The title track, 'Going Deaf for a Living,' gained airplay and resonated with audiences, contributing to the band's growing popularity during the late '70s and early '80s. When 'Going Deaf for a Living' was released in January 1980, Fischer-Z was transitioning from their debut album, showcasing a refined sound that would help them gain momentum. This album marked their second release and solidified their presence in the UK rock scene as they began to explore more diverse musical influences.

Who is Going Deaf for a Living for?

Going Deaf for a Living works well if you're into playful irreverence in lyrics, short bursts of energy and catchy melodies for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Going Deaf for a Living?

Going Deaf for a Living has 10 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Going Deaf for a Living

Fischer-Z · 1980

35 min · 10 tracks · rock music

A vibrant fusion of rock and new wave, blending sharp lyrics with catchy melodies and an energetic rhythm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Going Deaf for a Living — The title track encapsulates the album's exploration of modern life's absurdities through witty lyrics and an infectious chorus, making it a standout piece.
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Room Service — Opening the album with an upbeat tempo and clever commentary on consumer culture, this track sets the tone for Fischer-Z's signature style.
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Crazy Girl — With its catchy hooks and introspective lyrics about love and longing, this track showcases the band's knack for marrying emotional depth with pop sensibilities.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends rock and new wave effectively but lacks standout compositions that elevate it further.

What we noticed

The album opens with a punchy track that sets a brisk tempo, which is maintained through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
Several tracks feature prominent guitar riffs paired with rhythmic bass lines, creating a driving energy characteristic of new wave.
The title track includes a shift in dynamics, introducing a more reflective tone compared to the preceding upbeat songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

playful irreverence in lyrics
short bursts of energy
catchy melodies for sing-alongs
quick-paced listening experience

Maybe skip if you

seekers of long epics
prefer slow, introspective tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Going Deaf for a Living' was released in January 1980, Fischer-Z was transitioning from their debut album, showcasing a refined sound that would help them gain momentum. This album marked their second release and solidified their presence in the UK rock scene as they began to explore more diverse musical influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Talking Heads· The B-52's· XTC