Is La Folie a good place to start with The Stranglers?

Yes, La Folie is recommended as a starting point for new The Stranglers listeners. A vibrant mix of punk energy and new wave sensibilities, layered with eclectic instrumentation and darkly humorous lyrics. Released in 1981, La Folie was The Stranglers' fifth studio album, following the commercial success of their previous record, Black and White. At this point in their career, the band had established themselves as pioneers in the punk scene while beginning to explore more melodic and experimental sounds. The album represents a significant evolution in their style, highlighting their ability to blend genres.

La Folie works well if you're into dynamic peaks and valleys, catchy hooks for sing-alongs and dark humor in lyrical themes.

How many songs are on La Folie?

La Folie has 17 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

La Folie

The Stranglers · 1981

61 min · 17 tracks · new wave

A vibrant mix of punk energy and new wave sensibilities, layered with eclectic instrumentation and darkly humorous lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Non Stop Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Golden Brown — 'Golden Brown' features an iconic harpsichord riff that sets it apart from typical punk fare, showcasing the band’s melodic prowess and lyrical depth.
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La Folie — The title track encapsulates the album’s theme of madness and passion through its rich arrangement and introspective lyrics, creating a captivating sonic experience.
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Everybody Loves You When You’re Dead — This track combines punchy rhythms with sardonic lyrics that critique superficiality, reflecting the band’s sharp wit and musical versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and eclectic arrangements but lacks a fully cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving tempo in 'Non Stop' and maintains a high energy level through the first half before slowing down significantly with 'Golden Brown'.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as 'It Only Takes Two to Tango', which features abrupt shifts in rhythm and melody.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
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

dynamic peaks and valleys
catchy hooks for sing-alongs
dark humor in lyrical themes
quick bursts of energy
for late-night drives

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, meditative sounds
seek extended instrumental passages

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established wider recognition with the hit 'Golden Brown' and strong chart performance.
Themes: sardonic critique· madness and passion· post-punk experimentation
Moods: Dark· Energetic
Career context: Released in 1981, La Folie was The Stranglers' fifth studio album, following the commercial success of their previous record, Black and White. At this point in their career, the band had established themselves as pioneers in the punk scene while beginning to explore more melodic and experimental sounds. The album represents a significant evolution in their style, highlighting their ability to blend genres.
Stylistic neighbors: The Cure· Siouxsie and the Banshees· Gang of Four

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

The Men They Love to Hate

The narrator shifts perspective to address societal judgment directly, critiquing the hypocrisy surrounding fame and public adoration.

This direct address creates a confrontational tone that challenges listeners to reconsider their perceptions of celebrity and morality.