Rarities cover

Rarities

The Stranglers · 1988

66 min · 19 tracks · new wave · punk

A collage of punk energy and new wave melodicism, showcasing The Stranglers' diverse sonic palette.

Why this album works

'Rarities' is significant not just for its collection of lesser-known tracks but also for its reflection of The Stranglers' influence on the UK punk and new wave scenes. It encapsulates a period when the band was re-examining their legacy, contributing to their lasting reputation in music history. The album's release also coincided with a resurgence of interest in punk music during this era.
Best for
wave-like pacing with surprises varied energy for dynamic listening short tracks for quick enjoyment
Context
Released in 1988, 'Rarities' arrives after The Stranglers' commercial peak in the early 1980s with albums like 'La Folie'. This compilation features previously unreleased tracks and alternative versions, marking a reflective phase for the band as they navigated the changing musical landscape of the late '80s. The album serves as a bridge between their earlier punk roots and their evolving sound.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Choosey Susie 3:15
  • 2 Peaches (radio edit) Standout 4:07
  • 3 Mony Mony 3:04
  • 4 Mean to Me 2:01
  • 5 No More Heroes (radio edit) Standout 2:57
  • 6 Walk On By (radio edit) Standout 4:27
  • 7 Sverige 2:51
  • 8 N’emmenes pas Harry 4:17
  • 9 Fools Rush Out 2:13
  • 10 Bear Cage (12″ mix) 6:31
  • 11 Shah Shah a Go Go (12″ mix) 5:21
  • 12 The Meninblack (instrumental) 3:35
  • 13 La Folie (radio edit) 3:48
  • 14 Rok It to the Moon 2:47
  • 15 Shut Up 1:08
  • 16 Old Codger 2:50
  • 17 Yellowcake UF6 2:59
  • 18 Vietnamerica 4:05
  • 19 Love 30 3:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata