What makes Is That Love by Squeeze notable?

The single reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart, further catapulting Squeeze into mainstream recognition. Its blend of new wave and rock elements influenced many subsequent artists in the genre, securing its place within the early '80s music landscape. Released as the second single from their third studio album, 'Cool for Cats', this track finds Squeeze solidifying their unique sound after the success of 'Take Me I'm Yours'. By 1981, they had already established a reputation for clever songwriting and infectious pop hooks, marking a period of growing popularity in the UK music scene.

How many songs are on Is That Love?

Is That Love has 2 tracks, running approximately 4 minutes.

Is That Love

Squeeze · 1981

4 min · 2 tracks · new wave

Bright, catchy melodies intertwine with sharp lyrical wit, showcasing Squeeze's signature new wave charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Is That Love — This track encapsulates Squeeze's ability to merge upbeat instrumentation with introspective lyrics about love's complexities, making it a quintessential representation of their style.
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Trust — With its concise duration and punchy delivery, this song highlights the band's knack for capturing emotional nuances in just under two minutes, showcasing their lyrical efficiency.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The single showcases catchy melodies and clever lyrics, solidifying Squeeze's new wave sound.

What we noticed

The title track features a bright, upbeat tempo with a prominent guitar riff that drives the melody.
The second track, 'Trust', shifts to a more subdued tone, featuring softer instrumentation and reflective lyrics.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The single solidified Squeeze's mainstream recognition after earlier successes.
Themes: British new wave romance· 1980s relationship uncertainty· melodic heartbreak
Career context: Released as the second single from their third studio album, 'Cool for Cats', this track finds Squeeze solidifying their unique sound after the success of 'Take Me I'm Yours'. By 1981, they had already established a reputation for clever songwriting and infectious pop hooks, marking a period of growing popularity in the UK music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: XTC· The Buggles· Devo