Singles (The UA Years) cover

Singles (The UA Years)

The Stranglers · 1989

74 min · 20 tracks · new wave

A vibrant collection of punk-infused new wave anthems that blend sharp wit with raw energy and infectious melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    (Get a) Grip (on Yourself) Start here — This track opens the compilation with its driving bassline and confrontational lyrics, establishing the band's characteristic blend of aggression and humor.
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    Golden Brown — A hauntingly beautiful track that stands out for its intricate instrumentation and lyrical storytelling, showcasing The Stranglers' ability to merge pop sensibilities with darker themes.
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    No More Heroes — This anthem critiques societal disillusionment, featuring a memorable chorus that captures the essence of punk's rebellious spirit while remaining accessible to a wider audience.
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    Peaches — A playful yet provocative song that uses clever wordplay and catchy hooks, exemplifying the band's penchant for blending humor with social commentary.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short bursts of energetic tracks
  • playful irreverence in lyrical themes
  • headphone detail hunting through nuances
  • sing-along anthems for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy immersive albums
  • want slow, contemplative experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A compilation of singles that showcases their sound without being a primary entry point.
Themes
societal disillusionment· punk rebellion· dark humor· 1980s mainstream critique
Career context
Released in 1989, 'Singles (The UA Years)' encapsulates The Stranglers' ascent through the late '70s and '80s. This compilation comes after their fifth studio album, 'Aural Sculpture', and showcases their evolution from punk roots to a more eclectic sound as they navigated mainstream success.
New to The Stranglers? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 (Get a) Grip (on Yourself) Start here 4:03
  • 2 Peaches 4:08
  • 3 Go Buddy Go 4:00
  • 4 Something Better Change 3:38
  • 5 Straighten Out 2:48
  • 6 No More Heroes 3:30
  • 7 5 Minutes 3:19
  • 8 Nice 'n' Sleazy 3:14
  • 9 Walk on By 6:23
  • 10 Duchess 2:31
  • 11 Nuclear Device 3:34
  • 12 Don't Bring Harry 4:09
  • 13 Bear Cage 2:50
  • 14 Who Wants the World 3:15
  • 15 Thrown Away 3:31
  • 16 Just Like Nothing on Earth 3:55
  • 17 Let Me Introduce You to the Family 3:10
  • 18 Golden Brown 3:31
  • 19 La Folie 6:08
  • 20 Strange Little Girl 2:42

What to play next

10
Listen next

10

1990

Continues the sonic exploration with a modern touch, reflecting on their evolution.
Dreamtime
Go back to

Dreamtime

1986

Precedes 'Singles' with a similar vibe, setting up the transition effectively.
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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata