Television - Marquee Moon

Genre: Punk, Post-Punk, New Wave

Year: 1977

About: Imagine complex punk, but Television weren't concerned with speed and aggression like other punk bands. They were ahead of their contemporaries of the time and this introspective album shows it. The instrument arrangement are carefully placed, as not to show off, but you still get a sense of their virtuosity. The lyrics are passionately sung, and at times even seems to be a precursor to emo. The guitar lines are stunning, and weave in and out of your ears wonderfully. Such lengthy compostitions were unhead of in the punk scene at the time of this album's release. You can feel this record; they succeeded.

Sounds Like: Wire, Gang of Four, Richard Hell & the Voidoids, The Modern Lovers

Experience

Talking Heads - Remain in Light

Genre: New Wave, Post-Punk
Year: 1980
About: Talking Heads' fourth album really shows them having fully developed their own style. Produced by Brian Eno, this album is full of otherworldly sounds that meld into the mix. This is their most funky outing yet. David Byrne's lyrics contain elements of free-association and stream of conciousness style writing. Latin percussion also has a part in this album's sound. Thought provoking lyrics turn "heads" to the true meaning of this record. Upbeat guitars and swirling blissful electronics back many of the songs, with the last being a more slow almost Joy Division-esque outing. Great songwriting from beginning to end.
Sounds Like: Devo, Television, Gang of Four, Oingo Boingo, Elvis Costello
Experience