What makes Modern Times by Latin Quarter notable?

The album gained critical acclaim for its unique sound and lyrical depth, particularly noted for tracks like Radio Africa, which addressed contemporary issues through a global lens. It also helped establish Latin Quarter as a distinctive voice in the political pop genre during the mid-1980s. Released in 1985, Modern Times was Latin Quarter's debut album, coming on the heels of their formation in 1983. The band aimed to blend catchy melodies with politically charged themes, marking a significant entry into the UK pop scene during a period of social change.

Who is Modern Times for?

Modern Times works well if you're into dynamic journey with varied pacing, engaging reflections on socio-political themes and vibrant sound for social gatherings.

How many songs are on Modern Times?

Modern Times has 16 tracks, running approximately 63 minutes.

Modern Times

Latin Quarter · 1985

63 min · 16 tracks · pop music

A vibrant fusion of pop and folk influences, layered with socially conscious lyrics and melodic hooks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Radio Africa — This track stands out for its poignant commentary on African politics, combining infectious rhythms with thought-provoking lyrics that resonate beyond its time.
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Modern Times — The title track encapsulates the album's themes with an energetic melody and insightful reflections on contemporary life, serving as a manifesto for the band's artistic vision.
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America for Beginners — This song critiques American culture through an engaging narrative, using sharp wit to explore themes of identity and globalization that remain relevant today.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with varied pacing
engaging reflections on socio-political themes
vibrant sound for social gatherings
playful energy for casual listening

Maybe skip if you

seek instant gratification tracks
prefer uniform, steady tempos

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1985, Modern Times was Latin Quarter's debut album, coming on the heels of their formation in 1983. The band aimed to blend catchy melodies with politically charged themes, marking a significant entry into the UK pop scene during a period of social change.
Stylistic neighbors: The Blue Nile· Talk Talk· Prefab Sprout

Tracklist

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

1 Modern Times 3:50
2 No Ordinary Return 3:38
3 Radio Africa 3:56
4 Toulouse 4:24
5 America for Beginners 5:21
6 Eddie 3:13
7 No Rope as Long as Time 4:32
8 Seaport September 3:22
9 New Millionaires 3:39
10 Truth About John 4:04
11 Cora 3:00
12 Modern Times (12" version) 5:49
13 Thin White Duke 3:27
14 This Side of Midnight 2:46
15 Sandinista 5:33
16 Voices Inside 3:09

What to play next

Listen next

Mick and Caroline

1987

Go back to

Radio Africa

Full Latin Quarter discography Artists like Latin Quarter

pop music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata