What the World Needs Now...
Public Image Ltd. · 2015
55 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
A dynamic blend of post-punk energy and experimental sounds that captures a reflective yet defiant spirit.
Top tracks — play these first
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Double Trouble Start here — Opening the album with a punchy rhythm and biting lyrics, this track sets the tone for the entire record, blending urgency with social commentary.
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C’est la vie — This track features a hypnotic groove and introspective lyrics that explore acceptance amidst chaos, reflecting the band's matured perspective on life's unpredictability.
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Corporate — With sharp critiques of corporate culture, this track exemplifies the band's continued relevance, merging biting satire with a catchy melody that demands attention.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases varied tempos and vocal styles, blending post-punk energy with experimental elements.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a punchy track that sets a brisk tempo, but the pace varies significantly, with several slower tracks interspersed throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- dynamic flow with emotional peaks
- introspective moments for deep reflection
- kaleidoscopic soundscapes for exploration
- thought-provoking themes throughout listening
- wave-like pacing invites engagement
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, predictable tracks
- seek instant gratification and hooks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Significant return after a long hiatus, showcasing continued vitality and relevance.
- Themes
- corporate critique· contemporary chaos· post-punk defiance
- Career context
- Released in 2015, What the World Needs Now... is Public Image Ltd.'s first studio album in over 20 years following the band's hiatus after 1992's That What Is Not. The album marks a significant return for the band, showcasing a renewed creative vigor as they navigate contemporary issues while staying true to their avant-garde roots.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Wire· The Pop Group· Gang of Four
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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I’m Not Satisfied
The chorus boldly repeats a declaration of dissatisfaction, contrasting starkly with earlier verses that detail mundane life experiences.
This structural choice amplifies the emotional weight of discontent, transforming personal frustration into a collective anthem against complacency.
Tracklist
- 1 Double Trouble Start here 3:52
- 2 Know Now 2:46
- 3 Bettie Page 3:21
- 4 C’est la vie 6:08
- 5 Spice of Choice 5:44
- 6 The One 3:42
- 7 Big Blue Sky 8:15
- 8 Whole Life Time 3:46
- 9 I’m Not Satisfied 5:44
- 10 Corporate 5:23
- 11 Shoom 6:32
What to play next
End of World
2023
Continues the reflective and experimental themes with a fresh perspective.
This is PiL
2012
Sets the stage with a similar energy and sound exploration.
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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