Look Sharp! cover

Look Sharp!

Joe Jackson · 1979

36 min · 11 tracks · jazz · new wave · punk

A vibrant fusion of new wave, punk energy, and catchy pop melodies that captures late '70s angst.

Why this album works

Best for
short, punchy songs immediate hooks and energy upbeat background ambiance
Context
Look Sharp! marked Joe Jackson's debut album, released in January 1979. At this point, he was a relatively unknown artist, emerging from the UK music scene with fresh ideas and influences. This album helped establish him as a prominent figure in the new wave movement.
If you like
jazz, new wave, punk

Look Sharp! is an album by Joe Jackson, released in 1979. A vibrant fusion of new wave, punk energy, and catchy pop melodies that captures late '70s angst. The album received critical acclaim and reached number 20 on the Billboard 200 chart, signaling Jackson's entry into mainstream music. Its lead single, 'Is She Really Going Out With Him?', became a hit and is often cited as a quintessential new wave track, influencing countless artists in the genre. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Look Sharp! sound like?

A vibrant fusion of new wave, punk energy, and catchy pop melodies that captures late '70s angst. Rooted in jazz and new wave.

What makes Look Sharp! by Joe Jackson notable?

The album received critical acclaim and reached number 20 on the Billboard 200 chart, signaling Jackson's entry into mainstream music. Its lead single, 'Is She Really Going Out With Him?', became a hit and is often cited as a quintessential new wave track, influencing countless artists in the genre. Look Sharp! marked Joe Jackson's debut album, released in January 1979. At this point, he was a relatively unknown artist, emerging from the UK music scene with fresh ideas and influences. This album helped establish him as a prominent figure in the new wave movement.

Who is Look Sharp! for?

Look Sharp! works well if you're into short, punchy songs, immediate hooks and energy and upbeat background ambiance.

How many songs are on Look Sharp!?

Look Sharp! has 11 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·36:30

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

  • 1 One More Time 3:17
  • 2 Sunday Papers Standout 4:19
  • 3 Is She Really Going Out With Him? Standout 3:35
  • 4 Happy Loving Couples 3:07
  • 5 Throw It Away 2:50
  • 6 Baby Stick Around 2:37
  • 7 Look Sharp! Standout 3:22
  • 8 Fools in Love 4:23
  • 9 (Do the) Instant Mash 3:11
  • 10 Pretty Girls 2:54
  • 11 Got the Time 2:51

Release Date

January 1, 1979

Genre

jazz, new wave

More albums in jazz

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

36 min 30 sec