What makes Ultraglide in Black by The Dirtbombs notable?

Ultraglide in Black received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to covers, often being cited as a defining work within the garage rock revival movement of the early 2000s. The album helped elevate The Dirtbombs' profile, leading to significant recognition in alternative music circles and contributing to the resurgence of interest in Detroit's musical heritage. Released in 2001, Ultraglide in Black was The Dirtbombs' third studio album and a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing their eclectic influences. Following their breakthrough with 1998's Horndog Fest, this album further solidified their reputation for merging garage rock with Motown-inspired sounds.

Who is Ultraglide in Black for?

Ultraglide in Black works well if you're into playful experimentation with energy, short bursts of infectious fun and head-nodding grooves for gatherings.

How many songs are on Ultraglide in Black?

Ultraglide in Black has 13 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Ultraglide in Black

The Dirtbombs · 2001

44 min · 13 tracks · punk rock

A gritty blend of punk energy and soulful covers, echoing the raw spirit of the Detroit music scene.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Chains of Love — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious energy and captures the band's ability to fuse punk urgency with soulful melodies, making it an instant standout.
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Livin’ for the City — A powerful rendition that infuses the classic Stevie Wonder song with a gritty punk edge, demonstrating The Dirtbombs' knack for reinterpreting iconic material.
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Got to Give It Up — This cover showcases the band’s talent for blending genres, transforming Marvin Gaye's smooth classic into a raucous anthem that retains its core message while adding a new intensity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful experimentation with energy
short bursts of infectious fun
head-nodding grooves for gatherings
pulsating rhythms for late nights
vibrant tracks for road trips

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, soundscapes
seek lengthy, cohesive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2001, Ultraglide in Black was The Dirtbombs' third studio album and a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing their eclectic influences. Following their breakthrough with 1998's Horndog Fest, this album further solidified their reputation for merging garage rock with Motown-inspired sounds.
Stylistic neighbors: The Black Keys· The Hives· The White Stripes

New to The Dirtbombs? Find your way in →

Tracklist

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

1 Chains of Love 2:21
2 If You Can Want 2:57
3 Underdog 3:35
4 Your Love Belongs Under a Rock 2:20
5 I'll Wait 3:00
6 Livin’ for the City 3:07
7 The Thing 2:02
8 Kung Fu 5:42
9 Ode to a Black Man 3:38
10 Got to Give It Up 4:03
11 Livin’ for the Weekend 3:29
12 I’m Qualified to Satisfy You 3:53
13 Do You See My Love (For You Growing) 4:20

What to play next

Listen next

Dangerous Magical Noise

2003

Go back to

Horndog Fest

1998

Full The Dirtbombs discography Where to start with The Dirtbombs Artists like The Dirtbombs

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata