What makes Separates by 999 notable?

Separates is notable for its critical reception and influence on the UK punk landscape, showcasing a sound that balanced aggression with melody. The album helped solidify 999's position as key players in the punk scene, earning praise for its energetic tracks and clever lyricism, thereby contributing to the genre's evolution during a pivotal moment in music history. Released in January 1978, Separates is the second studio album by 999, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, the band was gaining traction within the UK punk scene, building on the momentum from their first record and aligning themselves with contemporaries like The Clash and buzz surrounding the burgeoning punk movement.

Who is Separates for?

Separates works well if you're into short, punchy listening sessions, high-energy motivation boosts and rebellious and raw vibes.

How many songs are on Separates?

Separates has 11 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Separates

999 · 1978

38 min · 11 tracks · punk rock

Dynamic punk energy collides with sharp lyrics and raw instrumentation, embodying the spirit of late 1970s British punk rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Homicide — The opening track sets an aggressive tone with its relentless pace and stark lyrical content, encapsulating the raw urgency of punk rock.
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Let’s Face It — This track stands out for its catchy chorus and satirical lyrics about societal issues, exemplifying 999's ability to blend social commentary with punchy music.
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Crime, Parts 1 & 2 — Divided into two parts, this track showcases complex song structures while maintaining a high-energy performance that resonates with the punk ethos.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album showcases dynamic energy and sharp lyrics typical of late '70s punk, solidifying its place in the genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track, 'Homicide', setting a high-energy tone that persists through the first half.
Several tracks feature abrupt tempo shifts, such as 'Crime, Parts 1 & 2', which transitions from a frenetic pace to a slower, more contemplative section.
The lyrics often employ sharp social commentary, particularly in tracks like 'Let’s Face It' and 'Subterfuge', adding depth to the aggressive sound.

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: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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
high-energy motivation boosts
rebellious and raw vibes
dynamic emotional intensity

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1978, Separates is the second studio album by 999, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, the band was gaining traction within the UK punk scene, building on the momentum from their first record and aligning themselves with contemporaries like The Clash and buzz surrounding the burgeoning punk movement.
Stylistic neighbors: The Adverts· The Damned· Buzzcocks

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Tracklist

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

1 Homicide 4:26
2 Tulse Hill Night 3:01
3 Rael Rean 3:24
4 Let’s Face It 3:50
5 Crime, Parts 1 & 2 4:31
6 Feelin’ Alright With the Crew 3:34
7 Out of Reach 3:20
8 Subterfuge 2:31
9 Wolf 3:44
10 Brightest View 3:38
11 High Energy Plan 2:49

What to play next

Listen next

999

1978

Full 999 discography Where to start with 999 Artists like 999

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata