What makes Retro by Ultravox notable?

Retro is significant for its early contributions to the synth-pop genre, helping to establish Ultravox as pioneers within the new wave movement. The track 'My Sex' generated controversy for its provocative lyrics, challenging norms and solidifying the band's reputation for bold artistic choices. Released in 1978, Retro marked Ultravox's transition from art rock to the emerging new wave scene. This EP followed their debut album, highlighting their experimentation with synthesizers and electronic elements that would shape their future sound.

How many songs are on Retro?

Retro has 4 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Retro

Ultravox · 1978

14 min · 4 tracks · new wave

Synth-driven melodies collide with dark lyrical themes, creating a vibrant yet melancholic soundscape that defines the new wave era.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Young Savage — This track encapsulates the band's blend of synth-driven sound and introspective lyrics, showcasing a darker narrative within an upbeat arrangement.
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The Man Who Dies Every Day — Opening with haunting melodies, this song explores themes of existential despair, setting a tone that resonates throughout the EP.
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My Sex — Boldly addressing sexuality and identity, this track stands out for its controversial subject matter and catchy chorus, making it a defining moment on the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases strong synth-driven compositions with cohesive themes, marking Ultravox's early new wave sound.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a synth arpeggio that establishes a dark, atmospheric tone, which is maintained throughout the EP.
Each song features prominent synthesizer melodies layered over driving drum machine rhythms, creating a consistent sonic palette.
The lyrics across the tracks engage with themes of existentialism and societal critique, enhancing the overall mood of melancholy.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 The Man Who Dies Every Day 3:41
2 Young Savage 3:18
3 The Wild, the Beautiful and the Damned 4:36
4 My Sex 2:57

What to play next

Listen next

Three into One

1979

Go back to

Systems of Romance

1978

Full Ultravox discography Where to start with Ultravox Artists like Ultravox

new wave synth-pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata