Top tracks — play these first
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Circus Games — This track epitomizes the album's energetic spirit with its driving rhythm and sharp lyrics that critique societal norms, setting the tone for the collection.
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Goodbye Civilian — A poignant reflection on loss and disillusionment, this song showcases the band's ability to blend emotive lyrics with engaging melodies, making it a standout track.
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The Children Saw the Shame — This track's haunting melody and evocative lyrics convey a powerful message about innocence lost, highlighting the band's knack for marrying themes of social commentary with accessible music.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic journey with varied pacing
- vibrant energy for active listening
- waves of urgency and reflection
- engaging narratives across multiple tracks
- for late-night drives
Maybe skip if you
- prefer consistent tempo throughout
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in early 1980, The Absolute Game was Skids' third studio album, following their notable record 'Scared to Dance' from 1979. This album marked a transitional phase as the band navigated shifting musical landscapes, moving towards more polished production while retaining their punk roots.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Ruts· Buzzcocks· Stiff Little Fingers
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Circus Games 3:52
- 2 Out of Town 4:08
- 3 Goodbye Civilian 4:18
- 4 The Children Saw the Shame 3:42
- 5 A Woman in Winter 5:58
- 6 Hurry On Boys 3:45
- 7 Happy to Be With You 3:38
- 8 The Devils Decade 5:33
- 9 One Decree 3:26
- 10 Arena 5:26
- 11 Circus Games (7″ single version) 4:10
- 12 Goodbye Civilian (7″ single version) 3:31
- 13 Monkey McGuire Meets Specky Potter Behind Lochore Institute 2:55
- 14 An Incident in Algiers 3:36
- 15 Grievance 3:24
- 16 Strength Through Joy 1:51
- 17 Filming Africa 3:41
- 18 A Man for All Seasons 1:52
- 19 Snakes and Ladders 4:03
- 20 Surgical Triumph 2:06
- 21 The Bell Jar 2:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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