This Is the Modern World cover

This Is the Modern World

The Jam · 1977

32 min · 13 tracks · new wave

A raw and energetic collision of punk rock urgency with mod revival influences, reflecting the disillusionment of late 1970s Britain.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Modern World Start here — Opening the album with driving rhythms and sharp lyrics, this track captures the essence of youthful rebellion against societal norms.
  • →
    London Girl — With its catchy melody and vivid storytelling, this song reflects the urban experience and cultural landscape of London in the late '70s.
  • →
    All Around the World — This track features a punchy beat and socially conscious lyrics that highlight themes of disconnection and longing for change.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

52 /100
Foothills
Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album captures the energy of its era but lacks some cohesion in its flow.

What we noticed

  • The first five tracks maintain a brisk tempo, with the sixth track introducing a slower, more reflective pace that contrasts sharply with the preceding energy.
  • Several songs feature abrupt transitions between sections, creating a sense of urgency and spontaneity that reflects punk influences.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quick, energetic listening bursts
  • immediate hooks and energy
  • youthful, rebellious spirit
  • short tracks for casual play

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified The Jam's identity and role in mod revival, enhancing their recognition.
Themes
London streets· cultural disillusionment
Career context
Released on November 18, 1977, This Is the Modern World is The Jam's second studio album, following their debut, In the City. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their identity amidst the burgeoning punk scene and gaining traction as a significant voice in British rock music.
Stylistic neighbors
The Clash· The Specials· Buzzcocks
New to The Jam? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 The Modern World Start here 2:31
  • 2 All Around the World 2:21
  • 3 I Need You (For Someone) 2:40
  • 4 London Traffic 1:50
  • 5 Standards 2:26
  • 6 Life From a Window 2:35
  • 7 In the Midnight Hour 1:51
  • 8 In the Street, Today 1:30
  • 9 London Girl 2:40
  • 10 Here Comes the Weekend 3:30
  • 11 The Combine 2:20
  • 12 Tonight at Noon 2:42
  • 13 Don’t Tell Them You’re Sane 3:40

What to play next

All Mod Cons
Listen next

All Mod Cons

1978

Continues the energetic mod revival sound with deeper lyrical themes.
In the City
Go back to

In the City

1977

Sets the stage with a similar punk energy and exploration of urban life.
Full The Jam discography Where to start with The Jam Artists like The Jam
mod revival new wave

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

London Calling

London Calling

The Clash

Shares the same raw energy and cultural disillusionment, blending punk with diverse influences.

Another Music in a Different Kitchen

Another Music in a Different Kitchen

Buzzcocks

Combines punk urgency with sharp lyrical commentary on modern life and relationships.

Pink Flag

Pink Flag

Wire

Offers a similarly urgent sound with a minimalist approach, reflecting social themes of the era.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata