What makes Stop Start by Modern English notable?

Stop Start reached number 48 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing the band's ability to remain relevant amid the shifting musical landscape of the mid-1980s. Critically, it received mixed reviews but has since been noted for its influence on subsequent new wave and alternative rock artists, highlighting its importance in the genre's evolution. Released in 1986, Stop Start was Modern English's fourth studio album, following their breakthrough success with 1982's After the Snow. At this point in their career, the band was navigating the challenges of maintaining their momentum after mainstream hits like 'I Melt with You.' This album marked a significant shift towards a more polished sound as they sought to redefine their musical identity.

How many songs are on Stop Start?

Stop Start has 9 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Stop Start

Modern English · 1986

37 min · 9 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of post-punk energy and new wave melodies, exploring themes of love and uncertainty.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Border — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious rhythm and lyrical exploration of boundaries in relationships, encapsulating the band's signature sound.
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Love Breaks Down — With its poignant narrative about heartache and emotional disconnection, this track showcases Modern English's ability to craft introspective lyrics within a vibrant musical framework.
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Start Stop Stop Start — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of uncertainty and indecision, blending catchy hooks with a sense of urgency that reflects the band’s evolving sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout tracks that elevate it beyond its peers.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and dynamics.
Several tracks feature layered guitar textures that create a rich soundscape, particularly in 'Love Breaks Down' and 'Breaking Away'.
The lyrics often employ abstract imagery, which invites listeners to interpret themes of love and uncertainty in personal ways.

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

Influence 3/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 The Border 4:05
2 Ink & Paper 3:57
3 Night Train 3:06
4 I Don’t Know the Answer 3:07
5 Love Breaks Down 5:32
6 Breaking Away 4:02
7 The Greatest Show 4:49
8 Love Forever 3:29
9 Start Stop Stop Start 5:42

What to play next

Listen next

Pillow Lips

1990

Go back to

Ricochet Days

1984

Full Modern English discography Artists like Modern English

new wave post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata