The Ideal Copy cover

The Ideal Copy

Wire · 1987

60 min · 15 tracks · art punk

A sonic exploration of abstract art punk, intertwining jagged rhythms with haunting melodies and cryptic lyrics.

Why this album works

'The Ideal Copy' received critical acclaim, noted for its innovation and influence on post-punk and art rock. It solidified Wire's status as a pioneering band within the underground music scene, earning spots on various alternative charts and influencing subsequent artists seeking to blend punk ethos with avant-garde sensibilities.
Best for
dynamic exploration of themes wave-like pacing and flow immersive listening sessions
Context
Released in 1987, 'The Ideal Copy' is Wire's fifth studio album and marks their return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus. This period followed their experimental phase in the early 80s, showcasing a shift towards more refined production techniques and an embrace of new wave elements.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Point of Collapse 3:22
  • 2 Ahead 4:59
  • 3 Madman’s Honey Standout 4:28
  • 4 Feed Me Standout 6:00
  • 5 Ambitious 4:05
  • 6 Cheeking Tongues 2:08
  • 7 Still Shows Standout 4:10
  • 8 Over Theirs 5:25
  • 9 “A Serious of Snakes” 4:53
  • 10 Drill 5:04
  • 11 Advantage in Height 3:06
  • 12 Up to the Sun 2:50
  • 13 Ambulance Chasers (live) 3:02
  • 14 Feed Me (live) 4:31
  • 15 Vivid Riot of Red (live) 2:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata