Is To Each... a good place to start with A Certain Ratio?

Yes, To Each... is recommended as a starting point for new A Certain Ratio listeners. A fusion of post-punk grooves and experimental sounds, blending rhythm and melody in unexpected ways. To Each... is A Certain Ratio's debut album, released in January 1981 after the band's formation in 1977. At this stage, they were still establishing their identity within the burgeoning Manchester music scene, which was beginning to embrace a mix of punk and funk influences. This album marked a significant step into recorded music for the band, showcasing their eclectic sound and setting the tone for their subsequent releases.

Who is To Each... for?

To Each... works well if you're into explorative late-night listening, ebbing and flowing dynamics and cathartic moments of reflection.

How many songs are on To Each...?

To Each... has 11 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

To Each...

A Certain Ratio · 1981

57 min · 11 tracks · punk rock

A fusion of post-punk grooves and experimental sounds, blending rhythm and melody in unexpected ways.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Felch Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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My Spirit — As one of the shorter tracks, it encapsulates the band's ability to merge catchy melodies with rhythmic complexity, making it a standout example of their unique style.
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Back to the Start — This track showcases the band’s exploration of layered instrumentation and experimental structures, illustrating their departure from traditional punk norms.
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Oceans — With its extended runtime and immersive soundscapes, this piece exemplifies A Certain Ratio's ambition and willingness to push boundaries within their genre.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

explorative late-night listening
ebbing and flowing dynamics
cathartic moments of reflection
varied pacing throughout album

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This debut album established A Certain Ratio's identity and influence in the post-punk scene.
Career context: To Each... is A Certain Ratio's debut album, released in January 1981 after the band's formation in 1977. At this stage, they were still establishing their identity within the burgeoning Manchester music scene, which was beginning to embrace a mix of punk and funk influences. This album marked a significant step into recorded music for the band, showcasing their eclectic sound and setting the tone for their subsequent releases.
Stylistic neighbors: Gang of Four· The Pop Group· Wire