What makes Stick to Me by Graham Parker notable?

Stick to Me received positive reviews upon its release, further solidifying Parker's reputation as an insightful songwriter. The album showcased his signature blend of catchy hooks and socially aware lyrics, contributing to the rising popularity of pub rock and influencing subsequent artists in the genre. Released in January 1977, Stick to Me was Graham Parker's second album, following his debut Howlin' Wind. At this point in his career, Parker was rapidly establishing himself as a key figure in the pub rock scene, blending influences from rock and rhythm & blues while gaining traction in the UK music landscape.

Who is Stick to Me for?

Stick to Me works well if you're into youthful urgency and wit, short bursts of energy and sing-along moments with friends.

How many songs are on Stick to Me?

Stick to Me has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Stick to Me

Graham Parker · 1977

37 min · 10 tracks · new wave

A vibrant mix of pub rock and new wave, brimming with sharp lyricism and energetic instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Stick to Me — The title track encapsulates Parker's signature style, combining punchy melodies with incisive lyrics about loyalty and relationships.
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I’m Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down — This cover stands out for its raw energy and dynamic arrangement, showcasing Parker's ability to reinterpret classic songs with a fresh edge.
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Problem Child — With its driving rhythm and clever wordplay, this track highlights Parker's knack for blending personal narrative with broader themes of rebellion.
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Soul on Ice — This song features a soulful arrangement that contrasts with its darker lyrical themes, illustrating Parker's range as both a composer and lyricist.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases energetic songwriting with engaging instrumentation but lacks strong cohesion throughout.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a driving beat and layered guitar riffs, establishing an energetic tone.
Several tracks, like 'I’m Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down,' incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the dynamic interaction between the singer and the band.
The last three tracks slow down in tempo, creating a contrast that allows for reflective moments before concluding the album.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

youthful urgency and wit
short bursts of energy
sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer extended atmospheric pieces
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified Parker's reputation as a significant songwriter in pub rock.
Career context: Released in January 1977, Stick to Me was Graham Parker's second album, following his debut Howlin' Wind. At this point in his career, Parker was rapidly establishing himself as a key figure in the pub rock scene, blending influences from rock and rhythm & blues while gaining traction in the UK music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Elvis Costello· Joe Jackson· Nick Lowe