Quit Dreaming and Get on the Beam
Bill Nelson · 1981
55 min · 13 tracks · new wave
A vibrant tapestry of experimental sounds and new wave energy, blending eclectic instrumentation with introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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Banal Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Living in My Limousine — This track captures the album's playful yet critical spirit, using vivid imagery to comment on consumerism and isolation within modern life.
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Life Runs Out Like Sand — With its contemplative lyrics and layered instrumentation, this song encapsulates the existential themes prevalent throughout the album.
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A Kind of Loving — This track stands out for its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, showcasing Nelson's ability to blend emotional depth with experimental soundscapes.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- kaleidoscopic sound explorations
- quirky and playful energy
- thought-provoking lyrical themes
- short tracks for quick engagement
- morning creativity boost
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward song structures
- seek immediate emotional payoff
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — First solo project post Be-Bop Deluxe, marking a shift to experimental sounds.
- Career context
- Released in 1981, this album was Bill Nelson's first solo project after disbanding Be-Bop Deluxe. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from commercial rock success to exploring more avant-garde and personal musical expressions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Sylvian· Brian Eno· John Foxx
Tracklist
- 1 Banal Start here 3:53
- 2 Living in My Limousine 4:19
- 3 Vertical Games 3:16
- 4 Disposable 5:56
- 5 False Alarms 2:51
- 6 Decline and Fall 4:44
- 7 White Sound 4:08
- 8 Life Runs Out Like Sand 5:24
- 9 A Kind of Loving 4:17
- 10 Do You Dream in Colour 3:47
- 11 U.H.F. 4:41
- 12 Youth of Nation on Fire 4:05
- 13 Quit Dreaming and Get on the Beam 3:38
What to play next
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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