What makes Then Again: A Retrospective by Martha and the Muffins notable?

This compilation album showcases Martha and the Muffins' contributions to the new wave genre, highlighted by their hit Echo Beach, which remains a staple of Canadian music. The album received positive critical reception for its nostalgic yet fresh take on previous works, helping to solidify the band's legacy within the broader context of Canadian rock and pop. Then Again: A Retrospective marks a significant point in Martha and the Muffins' career as it compiles their most notable tracks from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Released in 1991, this retrospective came after their rise to fame with hits like Echo Beach, solidifying their status in the new wave scene. It served not just as a summary of their work but also as an introduction for new listeners to their pioneering sound.

Who is Then Again: A Retrospective for?

Then Again: A Retrospective works well if you're into nostalgic reflections on youth, vibrant melodies for road trips and danceable rhythms with introspective lyrics.

How many songs are on Then Again: A Retrospective?

Then Again: A Retrospective has 18 tracks, running approximately 73 minutes.

Then Again: A Retrospective

Martha and the Muffins

73 min · 18 tracks · new wave

A vibrant collection of synth-driven melodies and introspective lyrics encapsulating the essence of new wave's Canadian roots.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Echo Beach — As their most recognizable song, Echo Beach captures the longing for escape while blending infectious melodies with a catchy chorus that defined their sound.
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Women Around the World at Work — This track stands out due to its commentary on women's roles in society and features an engaging rhythm complemented by thoughtful lyrics.
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Black Stations / White Stations — This song exemplifies the band's experimental approach, juxtaposing contrasting musical styles while addressing themes of cultural division and unity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

nostalgic reflections on youth
vibrant melodies for road trips
danceable rhythms with introspective lyrics
playful engagement with everyday themes

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, atmospheric tracks
seek heavy, intense production

Where this album fits

Career context: Then Again: A Retrospective marks a significant point in Martha and the Muffins' career as it compiles their most notable tracks from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Released in 1991, this retrospective came after their rise to fame with hits like Echo Beach, solidifying their status in the new wave scene. It served not just as a summary of their work but also as an introduction for new listeners to their pioneering sound.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· Talking Heads· Devo

Tracklist

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

1 Paint by Number Heart 3:29
2 Echo Beach 3:34
3 Suburban Dream 3:29
4 You sold the Cottage 3:59
5 Swimming 3:53
6 Women Around the World at Work 3:57
7 World Without Borders 3:08
8 Danceparc (Everyday It's Tomorrow) 3:23
9 Obedience 3:32
10 Several Styles of Blonde Girls Dancing 5:53
11 Black Stations / White Stations 5:12
12 Come Out and Dance 4:50
13 Cooling the Medium 3:42
14 Song in My Head 4:36
15 By the Waters of Babylon 4:57
16 Rainbow Sign 4:41
17 Fighting the Monster 3:17
18 Resurrection 3:46

What to play next

Listen next

Metro Music

1979

Full Martha and the Muffins discography Artists like Martha and the Muffins

new wave

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata