Reviews (page 5 of 8)
I liked this more than I thought I would. Has a few catchy tracks. Better than your run of the mill 3 but not quite a 4. 3.5/5
I remember liking this more then than I do now. Consistent feel and spirit throughout, but pretty repetitive sounding. Antmusic is a clear standout no doubt why it was a chosen single. Jolly Roger was a funny surprise that helped break it all up. Regardless, you gotta give it to Adam and fellow ants first creating a sound that is truly unique.
Could not really get into this, but wasn’t annoyed with it enough to go low
This grew on me and I ended up enjoying it quite a bit. Some catchy tunes. 3.25
I was flip flopping between a 2* and 3* but then the pirate song came on and I knew it was a 3*. Ha! 3/5
A liiiiittle disappointing. Thought this could have been a 5. It's a 3
It was alright. Some catchy tunes. Don't think I'll relisten.
Sure. Why not Favorite Song: Physical (You're So) Rating: 6/10
This is one of those albums that I don’t need to listen to in order to review and rate it, however, I listened to it twice today just because I love it so much. Perhaps the only notable pirate themed new-wave band to make its way out of the 1970’s, it’s really hard to imagine not falling in love with this record. Between Adam Ant’s incredibly dynamic vocals that switch effortlessly between shrieks and smooth tones, the fantastic percussion, and Marco Pirroni’s perfectly overdriven powerchords, there’s really nothing I can find fault with. Full disclosure: this has been one of my favourite albums since I was a small child, so I may be hearing it through rose coloured headphones, but I genuinely believe this record to be objectively great. There’s only a few other new-wave albums I’d put on the same level as this one, and certainly not a single one that surpasses it. It’s this wonderful combination of being incredibly cinematic yet still something you can and want to dance to. Did I mention Adam Ants dancing prowess? If you haven’t seen any of their music videos from this era, you owe it to yourself to watch them. 5*
I get the sense that around the 1980 mark, “new wave” was an incredibly crowded genre, both from bands who put themselves under that umbrella and those who were put there by others. As such, I imagine it was very hard for a new wave band to differentiate themselves from the crowd at about this time, at the height of its popularity. Adam & the Ants, though, surely didn’t suffer this problem, at least not by the time of this album’s release. They have a rather unique sound, which I would say is characterized by the drums, which are both rhythmic and melodic and take a much more central role than is typical for drums in western music. Ant’s voice also stands out for its strength, but perhaps moreso for its energetic and idiosyncratic delivery. They also have a very unique image and mythos that runs as a thread throughout the album. It’s all a bit strange and very interesting. Fortunately the music is good enough that the schtick works. I particularly liked “Los Rancheros”, the title track, and “Phsyical”. Fun stuff.
I did like the random sea shanty
I liked the first two songs, the rest started to bore me after a while.
Classic early 80s pop. Confession time - the first album I bought with my own money. Some of the cultural appropriation hasn't stood the test of time, but as a bridge between Adam's Gonzo Punk roots and intelligent pop, this is a fabulous album. And it's hard not to like any band with two drummers.
The first album I ever owned. I've always had exquisite taste. Wild Frontier is a BEEFY album. With hindsight, the non-single tracks are a little weak in composition. But the drums fill the gaps nicely. The panto element is strong. It's always good when an artist doesn't take themselves too seriously.
I like the concept, but not something I’d listen to again.
Expecting Adam & The Ants' Kings of the Wild Frontier (1980) to be a campy '80s New Romantic relic akin to Culture Club, the massive tribal drumming—the famed Burundi Beat—and the punk-infused swagger surprisingly reveal a rawer, more exhilarating sound that feels like a cooler, more stylish version of Oasis's stadium rock bravado. While the album is undeniably catchy and revolutionary for its time, the lyrics often lean toward simple sloganeering and theatrical camp, ultimately proving to be the shallowest part of a record whose primary success lies in its bombastic, infectious rhythms and bold, unforgettable aesthetic.
Essential (and more importantly FUN) new wave music by the great Adam Ants & his ants. Play loud. Dance naked. Ant people are GO!
Some really good bits in this and also some dross. Some of the guitar parts and drums are good, however the dated vocals and repetitive songs aren’t great.
This album doesn't work for me. The eclectic influences on display here never gel into a pleasing sound and I found myself skipping through songs at a startling speed
Love when people push punk into new weird directions. The drums are a particular highlight on this album
Better than expected. Los Rancheros and Killer in the Home were highlights for me. Fun!
One of the worst albums I've ever heard. So bad it's almost good. Each track is a unique flavor of something I never expected to hear. Being hit with a sea shanty knocked the wind out of me.
Never heard of the album, artist, or any of the songs. just kinda mid but like i didn't hate
Not my cup of tea by any means
Very stupid album thematically and lyrically but quite enjoyable, I really like the whole persona of the band with the outfits and tribal inspiration. Musically I thought it was cool with the double drum and the vocals were exactly what it needed. Highlights for me was ants invasion and the magnificent five. The rest of the songs were quite mid but not exactly bad. The Jolly Roger song was very random as well. Overall 5.5/10.
I saw a review describe this album as 'penis music' and its oddly descriptive of the feeling of listening to this album. I had a weirdly good time with it, even though I wouldn't necessarily call it good
Forgotten classic
"post punk", still kind of raw vocals and guitars with semi frantic drums, but less harsh
This was quite a fun listen, but I doubt I'll ever listen to it again (or any individual songs from it). I like the energy and the silliness, but the vocal style is a bit much (like shouty singing with shouty backing vocals over shouty hammahey stuff)
This one didn't stand out to me much, but unlike most albums that doesn't stand out it also didn't just fade to the background which would have left it with a 3/5. It kept demanding my attention by being noisy, and then not delivering anything interesting enough to justify that demand Standouts Ants Invasion Don't Be Square (Be There) 2/5
The album cover had me worried, but it actually wasn't too bad. 3.5 stars.
It's pop, but weird and bonkers. While being pop. Which is cool. But I don't have time for this.
It's definitely different. It started strong for me but it's losing its magic over the course of the album. I'll listen again.
This always sounds less new wave to me and more rockabilly than anything else. While I appreciate the ground work they set for future musicians in the new wave and industrial space (for the use of samples, particularly from movies), I personally don't enjoy the albums of Adam and the Ants. I prefer Adam Ant's first solo album FRIEND OR FOE.
Bad
Played this album a thousand times in my bedroom. It's always very interesting when musicians who ate their own world and sing about it like ant music and Dirk wears white socks. It's good, but I'm pretty sure I could have lived the full life without having ever heard this album. However, seeing him live was a formative experience but not how I expected. It was on the don't drink,.don't smoke,.what do you do to her at the Springfield Civic center during hockey season so they had these giant plywood boards down over the ice. The Romantics opened up and they won me over even though I wasn't a fan of the stuff you heard on the radio particularly. Like any self-respecting teenager, I was very committed to getting a tour shirt to wear the next day to school to brag to all my buddies. Unfortunately, the only shirts they had available were of a naked torso of adamant writhing in a very promiscuous way. At that point I decided it was more important to me to be seen amongst my jr high peers as being hip then as being heterosexual. And I've never looked back but it may explain why it took me so long to get a girlfriend....
I was vaguely aware of this band when they were active, but I'm not sure I ever heard anything by them, or at least from this album. And now, after listening to the album and watching the (very dated) videos, I'm sorry on some level for having missed out on them, as they seem like a great example of the potential of New Wave that fell apart with subsequent acts like Duran Duran/Pet Shop Boys/New Order. And I really enjoy some aspects of their music, from the double drums (at least on some songs) and some interesting harmonies/backing vocals, and full credit for being much more of a traditional band than relying heavily on keyboards. And those costumes...nothing speaks New Wave like a Musketeer-outfit with all sorts of hair flair and white face paint. My favorites on the album are probably "Antmusic" (largely from the dual-drums into and the fun video and outrageously 80s outfits and dancing), the spaghetti-western-inspired "Los Rancheros", and "Killer in the home". But ultimately, the songs aren't all that interesting either lyrically or musically, at least for my tastes. But kudos to Adam Ant for creating this seminal album from the ashes of Malcolm McClaren having poached all his band members to create Bow Wow Wow.
Little embarrassed to note that I bought this when it first came out--supposedly at the vanguard of a "new romantics" wave. I tried to like it but eventually had to admit defeat, though I still appreciate the punchy drums. I have no idea why it's on this list unless it's to serve as a warning to others.
Pretty good new wave
I actually liked Adam Ant, when I was like 12 or so, when this came out. Even the rose-tinged ears of nostalgia couldn't save this from being pretty weak. I don't like the throwback Rock N'Roll sound, or the strange backing vocals, or the double drummers giving tribal beats, it's all just a bit lame. 2 stars because some of the hits are passable I guess.
It says absolutely nothing.
They are ok. Have to be in the mood.
Not my jam, but I can appreciate it.
Pretty fun. Not a world-beating album or anything, but quirky and eclectic. Ant Music will always be a bit of a silly banger.
oh interesting
Great accessible 80s punk
The best parts are when they get a bit XTC. which makes sense sons they were in the same scene. just makes me think of how great XTC are though.
This is such an awesome album but I’m sure it’s mostly about nostalgia. Adam and the ants was one of my first pop idols. We must have looked pretty stupid. 8 years olds with white stripes across our noses, feathers in our hair and one of my friends even owned the Adam ant French style military jacket. Like it or loath it, it was a unique style/type of music combination, New Romantic/pop/tribal Definitely belongs in this list. Awesome!
This was really fun, and ridiculous and pretty silly! New to me except Antmusic - I really enjoyed it ant music for sex people :: sex music for ant people
It was fine, not really to my tastes.
Bizarre!
This sure was
Kinda hated it tbh
It was fine. I don't really know if I get the vibe. But that's just what the 80s were like.
Nothing special, just some interesting moments - that's not enough to give more than 2 stars. And even one is pretty accurate note. The band have two drummers? One drummer is not so good, so they need two? Cause I couldn't hear anything interesting in the drum line that would justify two drummers...
A classic!!
Interesting and unusual album, it was fun to listen to, reminded me of new wave albums from my country. Generally, the album is a mix of punk and new wave, it also contains some Shadows-like instrumentals, which sound quite nice. What pleasantly surprised me about the album is the fact that there are some guitar riffs on here which are borderline hard rock/metal, which for me, being a fan of these genres, was great to hear and they also fit in quite well with the music. Honestly, the album isn't anything too special, but it's a fun listen and isn't boring at any point.
I actually thought this one started off pretty good and was better than what I was expecting, but it definitely became less enjoyable as I listened. I don't know, I feel like just settling for a low 3 here.
I wasn't completely on board out of the gate, but as this plays on I'm finding myself enjoying this more and more. Ants Invasion plays as if Black Sabbath had punk impulses and an (even more so) eccentric frontman. Moody and enjoyable. Making History sounds a lot like I Want Candy. Kind of funny given the history to Bow Wow Wow who are prominently known for that song. Jolly Roger is a very silly one indeed...could have done without that. Not sure what to say here. After two listens I'm not left with strong impressions. I enjoyed some of the punkier sounding tracks (Feed Me to the Lions, Ants Invasion, The Magnificent Five), but a lot of other tracks were misses for me. This rounds out to a soft 3.
This one was eccentric and certainly was not one of my favorites. It was never awful though, I was just ready to be done with it after 2-3 tracks. This one has more of a "high 2" energy compared to a "low 3". I can't really quantify it, but I'm sure you guys understand the difference.
Incredibly standard British New Wave with not a single exciting thing happening on the whole album. This was just a filler of an album I feel like because I did not need to listen to that at before I die. I would honestly prefer something crazy like Kollaps to come up rather than this.
Killer in the Home definitely uses the riff from Rumble by Link Wray. Have heard that in so many movies/tv shows over the years. Pretty meh don't think I needed to hear that before I die.
What fresh hell is this album??? I can't decide if I like it or not, maybe leaning towards the not. It's too chaotic to really make out what's going on with any of these songs. Antmusic is easily the most digestible song on the album, and Dog Eat Dog is pretty good, the rest is pretty bananas..
A fun yet sort of strange album. It was okay.
It was fine. I’m not sure what was special.
I had never heard of this band before going through the book, I do wonder how big they were in their day. The mix of genres like New Wave, Glam Rock, and Punk is strange because those genres all have similar origina point so it ends up sounding very much like the early-80's but as if the early-80's have been going on for far too long. I was always curious about the bizarro world Freddie Mercury on the cover. Key tracks: Dog Eat Dog Ants Invasion
Not bad UK punk music but I have had so much in this list that I am no longer impressed. Stand-out: Press Darling
Blackfoot, Pawnee, Cheyenne, Crow, apache, Arapaho!
He got that dog in him
Really glad to have had a chance to listen to this one. Been curious a long time. It’s just alright for me. More noisy and chaotic than expected. It’s fine, but not at all essential.
Found this one to be boring. Really don’t remember much of it.
..
Góðir tónlistarmenn og góð lög en mér finnst og hefur alltaf fundist söngvarinn draga úr tónlistinni. Mér finnst hann bara syngja afskaplega leiðinlega. Sem er synd því lagasmíðin er mjög skemmtileg
No. On every level, this is music in ever have and never will like. I fully do not get the appeal.
New 80s music. Like it but don't love it
Here's another example of an album I listened to yesterday and completely forgot every track of. It exists, and I'm sure someone out there likes it. So, 2 stars for that.
Punk rebellion meets dance floor seduction in this flamboyant ride through the wild new wave frontier.
80er independent Rock. Ok zu hören, auf Dauer anstrengend. 3/5
A bit whacky but otherwise not much to say on this one for me. Punky and silly and crazy but not super exciting or interesting esp considering It’s so new. It kinda sounds like a record form the 70s.
Buff, qué pereza nada más ver la portada. Voy allá. Excepto la última, The human beings, más post-punk y oscura no me ha convencido nada. Poner otra estrella seguida me sabe mal, le voy a poner 2 por yo que sé.
Diferente desde donde se lo mire, no me siento capaz de encasillar el género de su musica.Vientos latinos parecen influir en sus velas y luego se borra todo.
It's different than I expected. I was under the impression that they were a pot-punk band, but this is a lot more new wave and pop than I was ready for. It's fun, but I don't see myself coming back to it.
Feels like a lot of shitty wailing. Just another brit album included despite not being anything special. 1*
Not my cup of tea
In het begin denk je: okee, ik zit deze jarentachtigmeuk nog wel uit. Maar gaandeweg gaat het echt op de zenuwen werken. Die knullige ritmes, die zeikzang, die aanstellerij. Waar is Frans Bauer als je hem nodig hebt?
Een duidelijke punk-uitstraling toont de hoes mij. En toch ben ik erg geïnteresseerd. Hoe kan dat? Eind jaren '90 trok ik de verbanden met The Prodigy. Toendertijd eerst Ants Invasion (met max. 10 kb/s) gedownload. Want ik was toch benieuwd naar die Prodigy-original. Dat nummer stelde mij, ondanks niet mijn muzieksmaak, niet teleur. The Prodigy had inmiddels het logo aangepast naar de mier en op internet werd de term Ant-Music gebruikt over muziek van The Prodigy (niet lang geleden had The Prodigy nog een Army of the Ants tour). Iets later zag ik plaatjes van Adam (deze hoes) en trok ik toch een parallel met Flint van The Prodigy. Bijvoorbeeld voor de kledingstijl. Dat komt natuurlijk vanuit de punk hoek, maar tja ook daarbinnen vind je variatie. Ik ontdekte door de gewekte interesse de nummers Kings of the Wild Frontier met een soort power-drum die mij wel beviel en Antmusic, dat iets vrolijker klonk. Die laatste trof ik ook weer aan op We Control van Hyper (een onderschat album). Voor de cover-versie was samengewerkt met Leroy, van...The Prodigy. Mogelijk allemaal in mijn hoofd ontstaan, maar voor mij voelde het als de wortels van The Prodigy. Dus laat de rest maar horen. Daarbij hoop ik in tegenstelling tot anders op een creatieve punk plaat. Wat dat betreft wordt ik wel op mijn wenken bediend. Tegelijkertijd is het soms wel erg speels (met Jolly Roger als toppunt). De punk-uitstraling is wat minder rauw en meer gericht op de uitstraling dat deze band gewoon plezier maakt en zijn eigen ding doet. De ongelikte (samen)zang blijft wel nadrukkelijk aanwezig. Het blijkt toch dat ik de beste drie nummers kende. De rest heeft weinig meerwaarde en is soms echt storend. Geen idee of ik nu sterren geef aan nostalgie of muziek.
Er staat echt teveel postpunk en newwave in deze snoblijst. Dit is weer typisch zo'n wanstaltig product uit Engeland met dezelfde non-muziek, die toen in een constante stroom uitgebraakt werd. Ze gooien er ook nog eens allerlei gekke geluiden tegenaan, waar ze blijkbaar beroemd mee zijn geworden. Maar ik stoor me altijd verschrikkelijk aan muziek met gekke geluidjes er doorheen. Het is teveel theater en aanstellerij voor mijn smaak. Er zitten af en toe wel aardige stukken tussen, zoals "Ants Invasion". Dat redt het album van de prullenbak.
At times it was truly annoying, but a couple I actually found enjoyable. Rounding up to a 3
yeah... this sort of reminds me of when i throw all the old stuff in the fridge into a skillet for mystery surprise dinner... except my skillets taste better than this. #1 in the UK? 1980 must have been a desperate time there.
I hated everything about this with every shred of my being.
Gave it 3 listens. Glad I did. Listen 1 and 2 - instant hate. However, listen 3...Drums, guitar riffs, and bass lines are all solid and pure rock and roll - listen to Magnificent Five, for example. Liked some of the Easter Eggs too - for example "Rumble" riff throughout Killer In The Home, or Enrico Morricone Westerns with Jolly Roger.
Boppable.
The album cover had me worried, but it actually wasn't too bad. 3.5 stars.
It might be due to very low expectations given the terrible album cover, but I didn't find this too bad. Some enjoyment to be had. I'm glad british people aren't real though.
More wild and interesting than I had expected. The first half of the album combined good hooks with creative ideas. Dropped off a bit on the second half and not sure what that pirate stuff was...
This is very 1980, in that a little goes a long way.
No thanks. This really did nothing for me.
If nothing else, this list is making me realise how deeply I hate new wave.
Awesome
Funny that his real name is Stuart Leslie Goddard
Christ almighty. 1/5. I have been on a terrible run lately.
I mostly enjoyed this
Not bad, kinda fun.
Antmusic, then a lot of nothing unfortunately
I was surprised by this one. Catchy stuff, would listen to again!
Feels like a flaccid pop punk rock attempt in my opinion
Diverse mixing
I'd only heard Stand and Deliver and Prince Charming before. Probably enjoyed this more than I thought - there's some cool fuzzy guitars and catchy hooks in places. Certainly Adam and the Ants had a unique sound, image and attitude that still seems quite fresh and unique 4 decades on I don't love all the tracks, especially in the second half it's not as strong, but decent overall
Not sure
what is going on
Pre-listening thoughts: I don’t know how I stumbled upon the reviews for this album a few weeks back but I remember reading that it’s just one guy named Adam Ant and so it was stupid for him to name the band “Adam and the Ants” cause it would be like naming the Beatles “John and the Lennons”. Is this how people felt about Marina and the Diamonds cause at least her real name is Marina Diamandis and not Stuart like this chode Post/during listening thoughts: So this started pretty normal in terms of 80s new wave/pop and then it just went off the rails a little. Why are we making sex music for ant people? Why are we pirates? Why is this white British man rapping about Native American tribes? Maybe this was a big thing in the UK that Americans don’t quite get, like Robbie Williams. But who knows, I’m only a dumb American. 4.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: nope Fav tracks: Dog Eat Dog, Antmusic Least fav tracks: Feeding Me to the Lions, Kings of the Wild Frontier
I seriously do not understand. But I really enjoyed it. It was weird, but...in a fun way?
boring. 1.96
I've heard some Adam Ant songs before but never a full album. For some reason I've always thought he's goofy and kinda avoided him. But the album is quite alright, cannot say no to 80s music. 3/5
This album feels like it falls just short of "good" in every regard. It's missing that last bit of enthusiasm and instrumental significance. It's almost exciting. Almost interesting. Almost memorable. But at the end of the day I can rest easy know I will probably never hear this album again and that's okay.
I came into this not knowing a ton about Adam & The Ants, but I came away at least somewhat of a fan. Really an enjoyable album. Like the sound design a lot.
Not a fan. Plenty of better albums out there to be listened to.
Absolutely pointless
Guys what the heck. I'm pretty sure everyone in this band collectively shares a single brain cell. I mean to start off with this dude decides to take a stage name and chooses Adam Ant. Like what?! Why is that what you go with? Secondly, he names the band after himself, Adam and the Ants, which makes no sense as a name either. Then the cover art is just weird and I do not like him staring at me like that from the cover. Then we get to the music. It was bad. Nobody on the band has good vocals, the backup vocals are whack, the main vocals are whack, the lyrics are whack and repeated a thousand times, the instruments are whack. The drums were literally the only thing on this album I liked. Everything else was a hard pass and should've stayed and died in the U.K. Why'd you guys let this come over here? Why?
brit nuwave/punk, weird lyrics that I couldn't understand most of the time, a song about pirates, and most tracks all sounded the same..... and yet I found myself entertained by it all.
No jaa, vähän melua, mikä vaivaa new wave -genreä. Siis että on toive kurottaa jonnekin kauemmas punkista ja sekoitetaan kaikenlaista sekameteliä kasarikolinaan. Mieleen jäivät vain ihan hauskan kuuloiset hokemat Dog eat dog ja Press darlings.
Hiukan kaoottista, ehkä vähän huonolla tavalla viimeistelemätöntä. Mutta tässä iso bonus: raidat ovat oikeita biisejä oikeine luonteineen, ja niihin on pyritty luomaan koukut. Saatan kuunnella myös jatkossa.
This is a really interesting album to get immediately after Talking Heads' Fear of Music, especially since I couldn't stand that album. This album feels a lot like that Talking Heads album, with the repetitive rhythm based music, some songs lacking in catchiness, really cheesy instrumentation here and there. All things considered, I should hate this album same as Fear of Music, but I don't. I think it's just due to how sincere and *fun* Adam sounds like he's having on this album whereas the Talking Heads' album didn't sound fun at all and felt way too up its own ass, I guess? Like they're doing all that weird experimental stuff because it's "true art", whereas Adam and the Ants are just fucking around and having fun. It may not work all the time for me, but at least it's fun.
I can admire the commitment to the ant theme--it's unusual but somehow endearing, like Black Sabbath reusing their band name for a song and album title. That feature lends itself to a quirky, punk vibe, even if the genre is more new wave than punk. The lyrics weren't anything out of the ordinary, but the beats were good. Made for an album I enjoyed well enough.
This album was an absolute hot mess. I like, kind of, almost liked it. Not sure if I am being held prisoner and this is Stockholm Syndrome. Please help. But seriously. It is weird, it is kooky, and it tries a lot of different stuff. It is new wave music at its strangest, and I think, in a way, this is where new wave shines the best. I did find this album to be pretty intriguing. I don't think it needs to be on this project at all, but yeah. Probably a high 2, so rounding up to a 3. Let the Stockholm Syndrome reign.
Great singles, but crap album. The single were innovative, energetic catchy and exciting. The rest, huh!
Ugh!
I had absolutely no anterest in either Adam or his Ants.
When the ground falls out from underneath, it would be easier to give up and let outside forces win. That wasn't, fortunately, how Adam Ant operated. With references to topics both in-house and out of the ordinary, the new iteration of the Ants barnstormed through the walls that had closed around it and became the not just the kings of the wild frontier but the kings of the burgeoning new wave counterculture. A boisterous blast of early 80s excellence. Favorites: Dog Eat Dog, Antmusic, Feed Me to the Lions, Ants Invasion, Killers in the Home, Kings of the Wild Frontier, The Magnificent Five, Don't Be Square (Be There), The Human Beings.
First album I ever bought!!!!!
**An ok album, most tracks sound alike. I didn’t enjoy
This one is nuts, some real driving drums through out. Propa Bri'ish glam rock. It just all sounds the same
Kings of the Wild Frontier is the second studio album from Adam & the Ants. This was a rebuilt "& the Ants;" after the band's first album, everyone but Adam Ant departed to become Bow Wow Wow. This album was far more successful than the band's first effort, both commercially and critically, and became one of the first successful post-punk new wave groups. They made version of glam rock, with catchy melodies and two drummers, making their work rhythmically focused. The album includes some of the band's early hits, including the title track and "Ant Music," the band's self-referential anthem. Their songs feature Adam Ant's confident vocals, with extensive support from background vocals, adding to their glam-rock, campy sound.
This was incredible, so strange but very fun
That's a great punkish, new-waveish album!
Just not for me.
Mr. Ant, what you have just played is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent album were you even close to anything that could be considered music. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you one star, and may God have mercy on your soul.
Upbeat and fun. I liked listening to this.
I don't know any Adam & The Ants songs, but I do know Adam Ant's "Goody Two Shoes," which I think is pretty fun. Reading up on this band, I'm amazed that Adam & The Ants eventually led to Bow Wow Wow and Culture Club, via Malcolm McLaren. I don't know much about McLaren, other than the fact that he unsuccessfully ran for mayor of London. Regardless, I wouldn't say that I have high hopes for this album, and I'm blaming Haircut 100 for that. Here's hoping I'm wrong! I'm happy to report that I enjoyed this album quite a bit. Before I started this project, I would have said that New Wave was one of my favorite genres, but I've come to realize that I'm pretty picky about the genre. However, Kings Of The Wild Frontier was really unique, making it a really fun experience. "Dog Eat Dog" grabbed my attention right from the start. The percussion immediately reminded me of Bow Wow Wow's "I Want Candy," which I've now learned is something called Burundi Beat. Is there anything more English than stealing something from Africa and pretending it's yours? Possible cultural theft aside, the Burundi Beat was easily my favorite element of this album. I was shocked that it never wore thin on me, but I think that's because there was plenty of variation in sound throughout the album, and the guitar playing worked really well with this unique style. Also, I think it made the weird vocals a bit less 'exotic' than they would have been had this album relied more on guitars for its musical sound. Speaking of the vocals, I really enjoyed the backing vocals on this album, especially on "Feed Me to the Lions." I dove into a bit more of Adam Ant's solo discography after listening to this album, and I think he sings pretty well, but this album doesn't really showcase his lead vocal talents, which is a shame. This album sounded a bit chaotic at several points, but I felt like that chaos was converted into some great energy, and it worked really well on this album. "Dog Eat Dog," "Antmusic," and "Los Rancheros" were my favorite songs on the album, but there weren't really many tracks that I didn't care for. Overall, this was a really fun and unique album, and it's really made me want to check out more of Adam Ant's solo work.
Not a fan.
My uncle has an Adam and the Ants record that I remember spending a lot of time staring at when I was a kid. But this is the first time I've listened to them. It's fine. There's some interesting stuff. 'Don't Be Square Be There' is ultra catchy and the baseline is incredible. I liked the sample on 'Killer in the Home.' but most of this just runs together. And what the fuck is Jolly Roger? New Wave pirate music sucks.
Not my fave but I will still rep for “Wonderful” (song, not album).
Great album but one I need to be in the mood for.
not my cup of tea, the cover art and album title had me thinking it would be better than it was. Strikes and Gutters dude
I saw the album cover and heard the first 10 seconds and thought it was just some gen X bullshit. After hearing the whole album, I actually think it’s just some gen X bullshit. However, I did enjoy it despite its temporal disability. I guess this is the point of the project; I got to enjoy a superb example of a genre I would never explore on my own. Five stars for the project. One star for whatever the fuck this is.
I was ANTicipating this one because I generally like this style of 80s New Wave, but after several listens I just cANT say anything really stuck with me. The avANT garde drumming style is very ANThemic and exciting but gets tiring after so many songs in a row. Definitely leaves you wANTing for something else. Another half point has to be taken off for the weird deep chANTing backing vocals that can be heard in “Dog Eat Dog” and “Feed Me To the Lion”. Despite my ANTagonizing complaints, I did generally enjoy most of the first half of the album. Just gets very repetitive across 12 songs.
Cool drum sound in most of the songs, but repetitive track-to-track. Nice and swaggery, though it seems like that was the end of the inspiration. Unless you’re The Cars, New Wave singing is always the WORST. I could have been happy hearing “Dog Eat Dog” or “Feed Me to the Lions” in a playlist without ever listening to the whole record. Ugh. After reading the Wikipedia page I see that the drum sound is ripped uncredited from African musicians and the Native American fetishization stands out even more. Yuck.
I really really liked this.
There's some good stuff here, interspersed with a fair bit of filler material. Ant Music is great, and I liked Killer In The Home with its Link Wray sample. The whole thing is pretty camp, but for the most part that's fun. A low three.
Fizzing with pop energy, burundi drums, and wild nobility - catchy, twanging, and joyful
A few good tunes. I bet they’re fun to watch live.
Excellent, one of the classic sounds of the 80s. The drum rythm is fantastic and the whole album hangs together well
I was shocked this album was from 1980 instead of 1990. Sounded so much like early grunge from a British band. Not surprised at all that Nine Inch Nails covered a song from this album. I enjoyed it a lot.
Can't feel anything about this
The only reason this guy was a star was MTV. He was good looking, had a gimmick with his clothes and makeup, had a decently fun initial hit with Goody Two Shoes and thus he was set for his 15 seconds of fame. A couple of decent tracks (Los Rancheros and Making History) but the rest is pretty dull. Thankfully the last album by this artist we will see here.
This album was ridiculous and I kind of loved it. I liked the mono-style shuffle of the side-openers, and Jolly Roger was so dumb it made me like it. I would choose to listen to this again
It not bad, kind of pre/proto-punk. I liked the simplicity of some of the bass lines. Overall it’s not something I’ll go back to, but it was okay.
Post punk is so hit and miss. And this was a miss for me. There are elements here that might make for something fun, but those are few and far between. I’ll pass on the ants in general.
Adam and the Ants I think is a context kind of album. It felt like the British response to Oingo Biongo which was started in 1978 both of which were on the tail end of the postpunk movement and pioneered the Alt—Rock genre. If you grew up on this I think it could your genius (the way I did on Biongo). There are some good tracks on here like Ant Invasion and the reggae-inspired Making History. However, a lot of this album felt like other stuff that I had heard. I didn’t dislike it, matter of fact I enjoy listening to it. But I’m not sure if I look for it.
Interesting time capsule. The drumbeat is so unique and tom heavy. That drum sound almost defines the whole sound. I liked Lions Den with the nod to Star Wars in there. How much did they have to pay John Williams for that 20 seconds? Don’t Be Square is also catchy and fun (se cmusic for antpeople!). Fun listen!
3.5 stars. Campy but fun new wave. Double drums does a lot for this. All the chanting makes it feel anthemic at times but obnoxious at times ("Don't Be Square (Be There)"). Standout is "Kings of the Wild Frontier". "Los Rancheros" also decent.
Thoughts before listening: I know very little about Adam Ant except for some hits like "Goody Two Shoes". He's new wave but doesn't seem to get the hype of the huge hitmakers or the more punk rock "cool" new wave groups. Review: This is okay. Apparently this was considered groundbreaking for introducing the "Burundi beat" to new wave. I definitely hear the driving beat in these songs, but it just sounds like 80s new wave music to me. Its not bad, but nothing here is really grabbing my attention. There are definitely better, more iconic songs that use this sound...maybe Adam Ant was a huge influence on those bands? 3-stars
Fav song: Los Rancheros Not too bad for an album full of vocal stimming! Very strange across the board but pretty fun overall. I liked the songs that sounded like other bands that I like so can’t say much on how I feel about the writing.
Woof. This is bad art rock that seems like a bad copy of the B-52s without the camp. This should have stayed in the 80s where it belongs.
Ant music brings it up to a 2
Very weird, didn't really know what to give it so I'm going for a cop out 3*
I did not enjoy this one
I got pretty bored listening to this. I knew some of the songs from when I was a kid and they were enjoyable enough but I wouldn’t like to listen to the whole album again any time soon.
I really don't know the difference between punk and post-punk, but I do know that I'm pilled for both apparently
Worth it for the singles. A solid 3.
Bit of a mixed bag but some big bangers
## In-Depth Review of *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* by Adam & The Ants Released on November 7, 1980, *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* marked a significant turning point for Adam & The Ants, transitioning from their punk roots to a vibrant, eclectic sound that would dominate the UK charts. This album is not just a collection of songs but a bold statement that encapsulates the cultural zeitgeist of the early 1980s. Below, we delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and its lasting influence. ### Lyrics The lyrics of *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* reflect Adam Ant's unique blend of humor, surrealism, and social commentary. Many tracks are characterized by their catchy slogans and vivid imagery, often drawing on themes of rebellion and identity. - **"Antmusic"** serves as a manifesto for the band and its followers. With lines that emphasize the importance of music in shaping identity and culture, it highlights the joy and urgency of youth rebellion: *“So sad when you're young to be told you're having fun.”* - **"Dog Eat Dog"** presents a gritty view of competition in the music industry, inspired by a quote from Margaret Thatcher about ruthless competition. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and survival amidst cutthroat dynamics in show business. - **"Ants Invasion"** juxtaposes playful imagery with darker undertones, using metaphors that evoke both menace and camaraderie. Its refrain embodies a sense of collective identity among fans while exploring themes of societal alienation. The lyrics throughout the album are marked by clever wordplay and an almost theatrical flair, showcasing Adam's ability to weave narratives that resonate with listeners while maintaining an air of absurdity. ### Music Musically, *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* is groundbreaking. It combines elements of punk rock with tribal rhythms and glam influences, creating a sound that is both infectious and innovative. - **Instrumentation**: The album features a distinctive two-drummer setup that incorporates Burundi rhythms, giving it a unique percussive backbone. This tribal beat is most evident in tracks like **"Kings Of The Wild Frontier,"** which opens with powerful drumming that sets the tone for the entire album. - **Guitar Work**: Marco Pirroni's guitar work is integral to the album's sound. His style blends rockabilly influences with spaghetti western motifs, creating memorable riffs that complement Adam's flamboyant vocal delivery. Songs like **"Killer In The Home"** showcase this blend effectively with haunting melodies intertwined with driving rhythms. - **Production**: Produced by Chris Hughes (also the band's drummer), the album features polished yet dynamic production that captures the raw energy of live performance while enhancing its pop sensibilities. Hughes' approach allows for layered vocal harmonies and intricate arrangements without losing the visceral punch characteristic of punk. ### Themes Thematically, *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* explores concepts of identity, rebellion, and cultural commentary: - **Rebellion Against Norms**: The album embodies a spirit of defiance against societal expectations. Ant positions himself as a leader for disaffected youth—a “wild nobility” challenging the status quo through music and fashion. - **Cultural Commentary**: Many songs reflect on contemporary issues such as competition in the arts (as seen in "Dog Eat Dog") and societal alienation ("Ants Invasion"). This commentary is often delivered with a tongue-in-cheek attitude that invites listeners to engage critically with the material. - **Surrealism and Absurdity**: Adam Ant's lyrical style often incorporates surreal elements reminiscent of English absurdists like Monty Python. This can be seen in his playful yet pointed critiques of pop culture and fame. ### Influence The influence of *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* extends far beyond its initial release: - **Cultural Impact**: The album played a pivotal role in ushering in the New Romantic movement while retaining its punk roots. It paved the way for future acts who would blend theatricality with pop sensibilities. - **Legacy in Pop Culture**: Elements from the album can be traced through various cultural phenomena—from fashion trends inspired by Adam's flamboyant style to musical echoes in later genres like goth rock. Bands such as Bauhaus and Southern Death Cult drew from Ant's tribal beats and aesthetic. - **Modern Resonance**: Contemporary artists continue to cite Adam & The Ants as an influence, particularly in their blending of genres and theatrical presentation. The band’s ethos can be seen reflected in modern pop culture figures who embrace flamboyance while addressing serious themes through art. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros - **Innovative Sound**: The unique combination of tribal rhythms and punk energy creates an engaging listening experience that was ahead of its time. - **Memorable Hooks**: Each track features catchy melodies and choruses that invite sing-alongs, ensuring lasting appeal. - **Cultural Relevance**: The themes explored remain relevant today, resonating with new generations facing similar societal challenges. #### Cons - **Lyrical Ambiguity**: While many appreciate Adam's lyrical style, some may find it overly abstract or nonsensical at times, potentially alienating listeners seeking straightforward narratives. - **Uneven Track Quality**: While most songs are strong, tracks like "Jolly Roger" have been criticized as weaker entries that detract from the overall impact of the album. - **Production Choices**: Some listeners might find the production overly polished compared to rawer punk sounds, which could detract from its authenticity for purists. ### Conclusion In summary, *Kings Of The Wild Frontier* stands as a landmark album not only for Adam & The Ants but for British pop music as a whole. Its innovative fusion of genres, engaging lyrics, and vibrant themes have cemented its place in music history. Despite some criticisms regarding specific tracks or lyrical complexity, its cultural significance remains undeniable. This album not only defined an era but also set a precedent for future artists seeking to blend theatricality with musical innovation.
Brought back great childhood memories. This was an act you could like as a child with all the costumes and larking about. I was surprised, then, to discover some of the tracks have a great post-punk guitar sound that wouldn't be out of place on some modern indie rock tracks. There's too much filler on the album though. Antmusic is the stand out (and deliver) track here. I would give this 3.5 if I could. I would give it a four to mark it out from the average albums because I enjoy the sound and look and nostalgia of it all, but I can't say I'm going to play it again apart from for a jolly jape.
Ant music at its finest!
I'm not a big fan of this album, particularly the final three tracks (Jolly Roger / Making History / The Human Beings) which leave a sour taste in the mouth after a surprisingly palatable beginning to the album. The music is primarily punk-inspired new wave, with dollops of Burundi music sprinkled in through the vocal techniques, percussion section, and modes (noticeable in some of the melodies). It's crafted extremely sloppily, though. And, as is standard fare for new wave music, the vocals are generally horrendous. Someday those 70s kids will learn to compose something palatable... someday... The top-rated review here gives this album a 4/5, citing that "the lyrics are stupid, the music is stupid, the name and album art are stupid... there's even a completely random pirate song for absolutely no reason." They also mention that "this is what the kids like to call 'penis music'." I agree with all of those sentiments, and believe that reviewer is clearly fishing for likes through the humour of giving a high rating while correctly bashing every aspect of the music itself. That being said, there are flashes of merit (through interesting riffs, basslines, melodic hooks, and so on) that push this beyond a 1. A 4, though? Are you insanity incarnate? 2/5 Key tracks: Dog Eat Dog, Antmusic, Don't Be Square (Be There)
Very British rock. Not my favorite but not bad per se
Good
Some songs great. Some songs not so great
3 - Yeah it was okay, not sure about the context of this album but nothing blew me away
Surprisingly good. Lots of interesting musical ideas here. Still also pretty cheesy. Fave Tracks: Antmusic, Los Rancheros 3.6/5
No good. Default music
really wanted to like this more than i did. at some points it clicked but nothing fully locked in
I don't know what exactly I don't like, I think his voice isn't my favorite and the lyrics were odd. Melodies could've been better. It felt very difficult to get through this with all the chanting and repetitive lyrics.
the sound of childhood nostalgia . plenty of fantastically good singles here, but the sound doesn’t sustain a whole album . 3
This one hits right in the feels. I've never listened to this album but I had a friend who was a big fan in Jr. High. I miss her. Great vocals, great drumming. All the songs seem like they were having fun. Good times.
A truly disappointing album. Completely derivative of Here Come the Warm Jets era Brian Eno, but to the point of sounding like a bad cover band. Tribal drums cannot make this album more interesting, and only acted as silver lining to an otherwise repetitive and uninteresting mess. 1.4/5 -> 1/5
5/10
Bring on more English punk rock!
Decent album, starts off pretty strong, but falls off at the end.
Bolshy chanting; boisterous drum blatter and heroic post-punk guitar muscle make this a pop record that bangs its songs into memory while bypassing the usual tropes of the catchy tune. Had fun with this, may return.
An iconic, ubiquitous presence when I was a nipper; I've never listened to any of the Ants' albums but have a fond, somewhat hazy memory of the singles, their campy, bright VHS-color distorted videos (as the cover image captures here perfectly) and the faintly menacing Ant subculture of the local scary teenagers ("whatever that means!"). This album was enjoyable but mainly empty calories, apart from the singles. He does have a killer Greatest Hits, of course - "Stand And Deliver" probably my fave
It was decent enough but didn't blow my socks off. It all got a bit samey by the end, especially as I forgot to turn it off before all the bonus tracks. Was interesting to hear the original version of "Physical (You're So)"...it's quite terrible!
A couple good tracks
9/10. The attitude is perfect. It's wild, and all over the place, but in a good way. The production is dope. This is such a fun album!!! :)
Interesting, but not my thing
It annoyed me. It also had some interesting music.
I think The Human Beings may be the most annoying song ever written
Killer in the Home is the riff to Link Wray’s Rumble but a fun album nonetheless. Cool album otherwise.
73% Best: Los Rancheros; Ants Invasion; Don't Be Square (Be There); The Human Beings Must-Hear? Nope
Old but not too bad...hasn't aged that well tbh
Another band that I had not listened to before. I kind of liked some of these, but really didn’t love or hate any of them. Probably a weak 3 for me.
börjar bra, dom första två är riktigt bra men sen går det raskt utför tyvärr.
One of my favorite New Wave albums.
fun sound, some songs i really liked
Wild stuff, love the personality on this guy
Using music as their banner, AntA put together a jaunty little second album. I remember Ant Music and Ants Invasion being played on a radio throughout the early 80s. Strong start with Dog Eat Dog (best song), all songs good. Had to laugh with some of the lyrics in Don’t Be Square. Ie: Death wears white socks. You might not like it now but you will! (3.7*s)
I think New Wave was a very forward-thinking music movement for it's time but this one didn't do it for me. I couldn't get past the pirate theme, a lot of the songs were just too juvenile and silly. However, I can see how someone would like a few songs on here, I just don't like the lyrics enough to ever get into them. It was more interesting than expected and I give them credit for doing something different but there's a fine line between odd and just plain wacky. "Feed Me to the Lions" so I don't have to hear this again, 1.45.
This is a flyover album for me. Not a lot of reaction other than...yeah it's a bit weird and not the worst. Songs are a pretty weak and juvenile. Like something I would sing into a Talkboy just messing around as kids. "Don't be Square " top track, "Jolly Roger" bottom. A little Bowie influence on the lead singer I'd say. Should have come up with an alter ego band like Ziggy called Eve and the Uncles...1.9.
I've been aware of Adam & The Ants forever but can't say I've ever heard a song prior to this. After listening to this album I feel I've been missing out. Kings Of The Wild Frontier was a surprisingly good listen. I was surprised this was from 1980 as it felt like it could have been released 5 years ago. It had a handful of fun britpop songs and really leaned into the band themes at times. I appreciate how well this held up. I'm evidently a fan of Antmusic and have added a few of these songs to my Spotify list. 3.55 stars
Pretty interesting. I almost really liked this, but something just didn't quite click for me. Would be interested to listen to other albums, as I really don't know much about this group, and have only heard their songs covered by others.
Thought this was very good. I think I might warm to it more over more listens too. 3.75/5
This album and Dirk and the rest are why I am how I am. I could not love this more, now or then. Get off your knees and hear the insect prayer!
It's so bad I actually really enjoy it These guys shitposted before shitposting was a thing. Truly revolutionary.
Reminds me of 80's era Bowie with some annoying country elements mixed into some tracks. The drums and bass feel like they create an engaging and driving rhythm. The lyrics are moody with some war-era Bono elements to it, especially in Killer in the home.
Some good songs in there, not a bad listen.
This sounded very 80s. Not really good or bad.
Except for the radio hit, Antmusic, I hadn't heard this one. And hadn't heard or thought of Adam Ant in decades. This was a blast to go back in time to my grade school years. Post-punk pop, in the vein of Devo, the sound aged surprisingly well.
wieder einmal schwierig, weil eintönig und ein gemisch aus geschrei und heulen. sorry!
Gute Basis und New Wave, vermisse aber ein Highlight.
Det är lite väl skränigt och gapigt. Några stora hits dock.
Answers the question of, “what would the Clash sound like if they were more camp?“
Two drummers is a great idea for a band that cares more about driven sound than message. The hooks are repetitive and often silly, but that’s extraneous. 4.5
Not bad. Kind of a fun energy to it. There seemed to be no low end to the music, though. Strange mixing issue, maybe?
Dog Eat Dog 3.3 Antmusic 3.2 Feed Me to the Lions 3.4 Los Rancheros 3 Ants Invasion 3.1 Killer in the Home 2.9 Kings of the Wild Frontier 3.2 The Magnificent Five 3.1 Don't Be Square (Be There) 3.1 Jolly Roger 2.9 Making History 2.7 The Human Beings 2.6 Score: 3.038461538
Wonderfully weird
The songs are just really annoying but it’s not awful
Un bon alliage de pop et de rock, qui pose les jalons de la décennie à venir. M'a parfois fait penser aux Ramones, parfois à Culture Club
Han zum Album d Wohnig putzt... Putze esch gar ned geil gsii, aber s Album hed Spass gmacht. Spötistens wo de song los rancheros cho esch, esch ziit gsii, mer en "chopfbedeckig" ufsetzte und zum sound alle Dreck usesuge und usewüsche. Nach grosem Chrapf und vell vergossenem Schweis esch d Wohnig weder suber und ech chan gnüsslech use ga und Gschicht schribschribe. Werd sicher mal s Album na imne neue Setting lose, ergendwelchi Vorschläg was passend wär?
De Adam hets nach dene vielne Top-Albe schwirig sich chöne z bewiise. Ich finde de 80er (Post-)Punk no spassig zum zuelose aber es git jetzt kein Track wo mich speziell umhaut und usesticht. Die meiste sind defür im "Moll, chan mer schono lose"-Bereich.
Gumo Young neduzen lauft richtig arbeit und freut sich ufs neue daily album. Ersti Gedanke: Adam who? 1.5h stund spöter, album dureglosst, mitm album radio witeri 1h 1980er punk am inedröhne. Spassigi ziit gsi, e neue artist entdeckt und au gwüssermasse es neus genre. Trotzdem gsehn ich mich nöd alltäglich das z’lose. Daher vlt doch ‚nur‘ es trippel rating vu mir. Aber me gusta. Falls es euch na gid Adam and the ants: Grüsse gehen raus
da hed de adam und sini ameise leider recht päch dass sie ih sonere banger wuche dra cho sind, will s'album hed mer eigentli sehr guet gfalle aber im kontext zum stevie wonder (grosses kino übrigens wie mer alli ohni usnahm en wonder wortwitz bracht hend) halt scho nöd uf em gliche level einigi 4er woni uf jede fall wieder wird bsueche aber durchzoge mit 3er, drum wird usnahmswiis wieder mal uf es 3 abgrundet
Why
this is what you'd write to be the in-universe music of the main character's band in a crappy 80s movie
Utter toenail clippings. No wonder he went mad.
hullluuu hulllluuu!!... aivan älyttömän sekopäinen karakteeri!! juu lawrence of arabia kuultu... arens!! arens!!! pääosin housuunpaskomista albumi... miten voit astua studioon ja päätät että et soita musiikkia vaan jatkuvasti paskot housuun on yli meikäläisen ymmärryksen mutta tehkää mitä haluatte.. ilmeisesti niin kovaa settiä että kritiikit tykkää.. mielestäni kuulosti pehmeältä.... se kakka siis.... muuraha ainen------ paras muurahaistyyppinen albumi tähän mennessä! haluaisin tavata henkilön joka miettii että hmm nyt voisi kuunnella vähän Adam & The Ants... ehkä albumi Kings Of The Wild Frontier perhance.. mayhaps.. mayhance.... ants invasion
One good song.
Truely awesome punk album.
Quite strange album I have to say, very similar to Talking Heads in many ways. The singer sounds very much like David Byrne, but the songwriting and weirdness is quite similar to them as well. Apparently quite successful when it came out. I'm having quite a hard time figuring out where it ends up on a map with weird on one axis, and good on the other. After some consideration I think it ends up somewhere in the middle. It's quite interesting and decent at times, but not something that really pulls me in either. Didn't find any particular song that I really liked, for example. I think a weak 3 will have to do.
Very new wave! I found it was quite good. Some good hits and some very strange (and fun) songs. It didn't hold my attention the whole way through but e.g "Antmusic" is a bop! "Jolly roger" was a real fun song too but I think I'm weak to anything pirate themed. It feels that this could grow on you with multiple listens but for now a smack bang in the middle 3.
I always enjoyed this. Fun and irreverent. Precursor to new wave to come.
Supreme dadness
It's fun, a little silly, a good time
Awesome album. I’m getting a lot of new wave from this generator and im not complaining im fortunately a huge fan of this sound. I’m a little shocked to find this album to have mixed reviews, I was jamming the whole time
I think it says a lot about my last 15ish albums to say that this was a breath of fresh air! I almost gave it 5 stars by sheer relief it wasn't going to make me sleepy
I don’t particularly like this, but I appreciate the weird 80sness of it.
I'd listened to this once before, and gave it at least 3 listens this time around, and I just don't fully dig it. It's music that I feel I should like as I enjoy a lot of New Wave music from this time period, this just doesn't click with me for reasons I'm unsure of. I think I'd describe it as Talking Heads Lite or something: there are just better similar-sounding options. It's not a bad record though. Adam Ant sounds like a good front man, and the music is interesting enough. Just doesn't wow me.
Kind of stupid but also kind of fun
This is that off the wall new wave stuff I love and is an album you definitely SHOULD listen to. Surprisingly catchy.
Pretty good.
First song tried but it was all downhill from there for me. The songs sounded like "almost" so many good things but never got there. Then there was the random pirate song...
Yes ...I liked this album
This album reminds me of 1980. In middle school in a small town and trying to figure out what the cool older kids are listening to so you can order it from Columbia House's "13 albums for a penny!" deal. And you hear one of these songs on the radio, and you don't really know what's going on in the song because the lyrics are kind of hard to understand, and it's kind of stupid to buy an entire album just for one song so you get something else that you actually know. Now you're north of 50, and apparently you have to listen to this album before you die so you dive in to a creation featuring no less than *39* versions of the same songs, and the lyrics are still hard to understand and they all sound the same. Dear 1980 Me, it was ok not to order this album from Columbia House. You didn't miss much.
Ok, maybe rockified 70s-80s British pop isn't always a banger...
Very 80's. A vibe that reminds me of Bowie just in the slightest I think. 3.5
Not my bag
Creative but grating, trying a bit too hard 3
I was pleasantly surprised by this album. It's weird but occasionally quite catchy. Kings of the wild frontier is a great song. A bit uneven though.
This is very exciting. The tribal drumming. The glamrock riffs and stomping. The punkrock energy and chanting. The yodelling! Actual songwriting gets a bit lost in the mix; not sure if I'd be able to tell the songs apart without the sloganeering. But who cares.
Bro wants to be David Bowie so bad.
This one kinda reminded me of Talking Heads if they were considerably less interesting. There were cool rhythms used in the percussion, but everything else didn’t hold my interest. I thought the song Jolly Roger was stupid. Favorite track was Antmusic.
Brought some memories back but now don't like because he's been caught yes another pedo
It was fine
Didn't know what to expect coming into this knowing only 'Prince Charming' and 'Stand and Deliver' which are both on the next album. 'Dog Eat Dog' opens fast. 'Antmusic' has the catchiest chorus on the whole record. 'Ants Invasion' has a great riff. I absolutely love Adam Ant's voice and random almost yodels and noises he makes. The guitar can get quite heavy at times which was a surprise. Always a fan of music that makes you headbang even though it's not all out rock or heavy metal. Difficult to say why I love this so much. Glam rock meets punk meets pop meets Burundi Beat (Google it). Just 40 mins of really fun, very catchy, a bit over the top and silly music. Absolutely loved it.
Good energy. That was fun
My feeling on this is that it was one of the classic early MTV bands i.e. the visual impact was as important as the music, and when the two worked well together, like with Adam & The Ants, you probably ended up with a hit. I personally liked "Stand and Deliver" more than any of the tracks on this album. It's hard to argue that this is anything other than average, though, in terms of the quality of the music and the place of the band in musical history.
Random noises
I've heard of this group. Never really heard anything they released. Not bad. Not my style of music.
Adam Amt was ubiquitous on Top of the Pops growing up, so very strange to return to it now. Then it was just pop music, with no context. In a way it sounds completely new - I can hear all the different influences at work, and how they come together. Really enjoyed and surprised by a couple listens through.
Fav: Ants Invasion Least Fav: Killer In The Home By far the weirdest album I’ve listened to yet, and somehow I was able to enjoy it, o don’t think it was a masterpiece but I respected the album for just doing it’s own thing with the yodelling, the pirate song and “ant music for sex people, sex music for ant people”
Weird in a fun way but super forgettable for some reason. I'm writing this the morning after I listened to it and I can only remember my feelings. None of the songs.
Expected this to be peak 80s sound but I actually think it’s aged very well and wasn’t as camp as I was expecting. Yeah, I dig the Ants!
Didn’t really enjoy most of this. Far too frenetic. I’ll never revisit this on purpose. I did like their sample of Lawrence of Arabia, though. 2/5
Very silly, pretty great.
Pretty good. Not mind blowing.
Albumi #45, 11.09.2024 Adam and the Ants on 80-luvun new waven tylsimmästä päästä. Ehkä tämä enemmän kuuntelemalla aukeaisi paremmin, mutta ensikuuntelemalla jaksoin juuri ja juuri sinnitellä koko levyn loppuun saakka.
I recall being 10 and loving this...50 and not so much.
That was off the wall
Awful, random sounds that vaguely remind me of riffs off other oddly random crappy sounds. The fact that this guy ever had a music career makes me hurt.
Not for me Roy
Sort of so bad its good, I mean it's not actual good, but in a goofy way where you lose all musical criteria there's something compelling here. I can't bring myself to say its actually good, but an interesting listen. How do you rate such a thing? To me a fun 2 that is elevated to a 3 by being weird and crazy in a good way. Can't bring myself to give this a 4 though. Ant music for sex people, sex music for ant people,
This was an enjoyable album. I never felt like I was waiting for it to be over. 3.5
Possibly the most 80s sounding album ever created and not in a good way. 3/10
Swept up in the silliness 7/10
Actually it’s pronounced “Adam and the Aunts”
I like
For this review, I'm sticking to the original LP tracklisting, and not factoring in the B-side tracks and second disc of the super deluxe edition. I hadn't heard of Adam and the Ants before, and that album artwork already gives me quite the impression. This group went through a near complete lineup change before this album, along with a style shift from post-punk to new wave, with the sole consistent member being frontman Adam Ant. Kings of the Wild Frontier gave me similar vibes to The Stranglers concerning the manic energy that Adam and the rest of this group exerted in their songs. From the get-go on "Dog Eat Dog", the Burundi drums kick in as Adam howls and belts his way through, complemented by catchy guitar hooks. It doesn't take long before lyrical themes go off the rails, from talking about the uprising of ant-people to pirates and Native American tribes. It's fun in its lack of cohesion with good riffs and percussion, though this band kept at 100% chaos and doesn't give a break to change up the style, so be aware of that. Give it a spin.
This was fine. Kinda washed over me
Kinda boring
Nobody needs this much AATA
2/5. Got an extra star from Will
Bloody Adam and his bloody ants annoyed me at the time and still do. That might be a bit unfair due to my ex-wife liking them. But as I say I disliked them then when things were rosy between me and my ex (her liking this shit should have been a massive neon lit warning sign) Where my hatred lies is hard to define because I suppose the tracks on this album are up to standard reasonable toe tapping pop songs. Everywhere you went in 1980 you had to endure these songs which came a bit exhausting. That and of course all the “ants” stood in an upright pose with two fingers across their brows looking menacing (not that was possible due to hilarious application of make up) And don’t get me started on those ubiquitous videos on MTV and the like. It was impossible to avoid them. Crashing through glass windows is really dangerous but Adam or should I say Stuart managed to do it regularly and still came back to give us more of his stinking music. There is a happy ending in that they broke up in 1982 so my misery was short lived. That is until today when this album arrived on my list. 1/5 25/8/24
Kind of boring
Jeez this guy likes ants like so much
One hit wonder not the most creative band
I’ve definitely heard some Adam and the Ants before (Staaaaand and deliver!!) which I’ve enjoyed. Beyond that, I certainly wouldn’t say I’m over familiar, but I like what I’ve heard, and this album led to me liking more. I really enjoyed the tribal sound that came across a lot of the time. The sound is undeniably pop, but the drums would frequently stay on the toms making more of a marching beat than I expected. There are a lot of catchy moments here, making for a fun album.
Interessant.
I knew right away that I was going to dig this. Like the music overall, LOVE the drums.
A little hit or miss here, but I do love some classic New Wave. When this is on it is INCREDIBLE. Unfortunately there are some pretty lackluster moments as well. Drumming is very standout throughout though. Big points there.
"Kings of the Wild Frontier" — proving once again that you can love a genre and still not like an album as much as you'd expect.
Not for me