Released 40 years ago
The World Is a Ball
Martha and the Muffins · 1986
43 min · 10 tracks · new wave
A vibrant blend of new wave and pop, dripping with infectious melodies and energetic rhythms that invite listeners to dance.
Top tracks — play these first
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The World Is a Ball — This title track encapsulates the album's upbeat spirit with its catchy chorus and danceable rhythm, showcasing the band's signature sound.
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I Watch, I Wait — With its introspective lyrics paired with an infectious melody, this track highlights the band's ability to blend emotional depth with pop sensibilities.
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By the Waters of Babylon — This song stands out for its atmospheric instrumentation and reflective lyrics, offering a poignant contrast to the more energetic tracks.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- infectious melodies that invite dancing
- vibrant rhythms for upbeat moments
- catchy hooks for sing-alongs
- playful energy for social gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- prefer slow, introspective music
- want complex, lengthy compositions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1986, The World Is a Ball marked Martha and the Muffins' third studio album, following their breakthrough record, Metro Music. At this point, the band was navigating the peak of their commercial success while experimenting with a more polished sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The B-52's· Talking Heads· Devo
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Only You
The perspective shifts from longing to acceptance, revealing a deep sense of personal growth.
This transition illustrates a pivotal change in tone that underscores the album's exploration of relationships and self-discovery.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The World Is a Ball 4:16
- 2 I Watch, I Wait 3:44
- 3 Watching The Boys Fall Down 4:00
- 4 Only You 4:40
- 5 By the Waters of Babylon 4:55
- 6 Song in My Head 4:34
- 7 Don’t Jump the Gun 4:28
- 8 Stuck on the Grid 4:10
- 9 Someone Else’s Shoes 4:20
- 10 As a Matter of Fact 4:00
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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