The Boomtown Rats cover

The Boomtown Rats

The Boomtown Rats · 1977

56 min · 15 tracks · new wave · punk · power pop

Energetic punk-infused melodies collide with sharp social commentary and infectious hooks.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • energetic bursts of social commentary
  • dynamic progression with peaks
  • infectious hooks for sing-alongs
  • wave-like pacing keeps engagement

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer slow, reflective music
  • seek standalone track variety

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1977, The Boomtown Rats marked the band’s debut album, establishing them as a notable force within the burgeoning punk scene. At this point, they were transitioning from local Irish acts to an internationally recognized band, thanks in part to their energetic live performances and edgy sound.
Stylistic neighbors
The Clash· XTC· Talking Heads

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Lookin’ After No. 1 3:10
  • 2 Mary of the 4th Form 3:33
  • 3 Close as You’ll Ever Be 3:25
  • 4 Neon Heart 3:54
  • 5 Joey’s on the Streets Again 5:31
  • 6 I Can Make It (If You Can) 5:47
  • 7 Never Bite the Hand That Feeds 2:47
  • 8 (She’s Gonna) Do You In 3:55
  • 9 Kicks 4:11
  • 10 Doin’ It Away (1975 live demo) 2:42
  • 11 My Blues Away (1975 live demo) 2:54
  • 12 A Second Time (1975 live demo) 4:11
  • 13 Fanzine Hero (1975 live demo) 3:13
  • 14 Barefootin’ (live in Moran’s Hotel Dublin 1975) 3:21
  • 15 Mary of the 4th Form (single version) 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata