Is Rattus Norvegicus a good place to start with The Stranglers?

Yes, Rattus Norvegicus is recommended as a starting point for new The Stranglers listeners. Raw energy and sharp wit collide in gritty punk anthems layered with new wave elements and dark humor. Released on April 15, 1977, Rattus Norvegicus marked The Stranglers' debut album, positioning them at the forefront of the burgeoning punk rock scene in the UK. At this time, they were still finding their identity amidst a backdrop of established punk acts like the Sex Pistols and The Clash, yet their unique blend of aggressive instrumentation and sardonic lyrics helped carve out their distinct niche.

Who is Rattus Norvegicus for?

Rattus Norvegicus works well if you're into short, punchy listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and raw, energetic vibe.

How many songs are on Rattus Norvegicus?

Rattus Norvegicus has 9 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Rattus Norvegicus

The Stranglers · 1977

40 min · 9 tracks · new wave

Raw energy and sharp wit collide in gritty punk anthems layered with new wave elements and dark humor.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sometimes Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Peaches — The track's cheeky lyrics and catchy hook encapsulate The Stranglers' provocative approach to punk, blending humor with social commentary.
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(Get a) Grip (on Yourself) — This track exemplifies the band's energetic sound with its driving rhythm and sharp lyrics that critique societal norms, reflecting the punk ethos.
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Down in the Sewer — An ambitious multi-part suite that showcases their musical complexity and lyrical depth, illustrating a darker narrative not often seen in punk.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album combines raw punk energy with new wave elements, creating a distinctive sound that stands out in its era.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving bass line in 'Sometimes' that sets a gritty tone, followed by sharp guitar riffs throughout.
Tracks like 'Peaches' and '(Get a) Grip (on Yourself)' feature aggressive vocal delivery paired with punchy rhythms, emphasizing the punk ethos.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

short, punchy listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
raw, energetic vibe
darkly humorous undertones

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debut album that established The Stranglers' reputation in the punk scene.
Themes: punk rock rebellion· gritty urban life· provocative humor
Moods: Aggressive· Energetic
Career context: Released on April 15, 1977, Rattus Norvegicus marked The Stranglers' debut album, positioning them at the forefront of the burgeoning punk rock scene in the UK. At this time, they were still finding their identity amidst a backdrop of established punk acts like the Sex Pistols and The Clash, yet their unique blend of aggressive instrumentation and sardonic lyrics helped carve out their distinct niche.
Stylistic neighbors: The Cure· Siouxsie and the Banshees· Gang of Four

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Tracklist

1 Sometimes Start here 4:55
2 Goodbye Toulouse 3:16
3 London Lady 2:32
4 Princess of the Streets 4:37
5 Hanging Around 4:27
6 Peaches 4:07
7 (Get a) Grip (on Yourself) 4:02
8 Ugly 4:07
9 Down in the Sewer: (a) Falling / (b) Down in the Sewer / (c) Trying to Get Out Again / (d) Rats Rally 7:54