The Age of Plastic
The Buggles · 1980
36 min · 8 tracks · new wave
A shimmering blend of synth-driven melodies and pointed lyrics that critique modernity and technology.
Why this album works
'The Age of Plastic' is significant for featuring 'Video Killed the Radio Star', which became the first music video ever played on MTV in 1981, symbolizing the shift to a new era in music consumption. The album itself received critical acclaim and showcased an innovative use of synthesizers, influencing the burgeoning synth-pop genre and the soundscape of the early '80s.
- Best for
- steady, consistent energy levels immersive listening sessions thought-provoking lyrical content
- Context
- Released on January 10, 1980, 'The Age of Plastic' was the debut album from The Buggles, a duo consisting of Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from session musicians to pivotal figures in the new wave movement, with Horn's production skills gaining recognition. The album set the stage for their future success and Horn's later work with Yes and other notable acts.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Roxy Music· Bronski Beat· Blondie
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Living in the Plastic Age Standout 5:12
- 2 Video Killed the Radio Star Standout 4:08
- 3 Kid Dynamo 3:27
- 4 I Love You (Miss Robot) 4:55
- 5 Clean, Clean 3:53
- 6 Elstree Standout 4:27
- 7 Astroboy (And the Proles on Parade) 4:48
- 8 Johnny on the Monorail 5:26
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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