Reviews (page 5 of 9)
Great energy
3.5
Always loved this album. For some reason Lava and Hero Worship aren't available on Spotify while the rest of the album is. Liked Songs: Planet Claire Rock Lobster
Very good, some very catchy parts and unique
C'est eclaté j ai bien aimé. Dur d'ecouté ca dans le sysfeme de son mais dans les ecouteurs c'est tres bon
Pretty fun album. I've always liked Rock Lobster, aside from the implication that all undersea animals sound like dolphins.
Great album. Band commercially super successful but not enough critical appreciation.
Impressive right out of the gate, and a true original sound.
So dancy and fun! More punk than I remember it being. I want to be their friends.
I'd never listened to the B-52's outside of their famous songs. I find them a little repetitive but I do really like their sound, so it's okay. Besides "Rock Lobster," "6060-842" was the highlight for me.
A classic!
Very nice album in an unfollowable style. Nice to hear planet Claire again and of course i already knew the hit Rock lobster, but the other songs are also very nice. Great singing, especially from the female singer Kate . Dont know the titles anymore nut i added two songs to my favourites.
Have always loved B-52's, glad to listen to this whole album.
Solid album
I’m excited to listen to this album, as I’ve never heard a single bad song by the B-52’s. Admittedly, I’ve only heard two songs by them, but that’s still a 100% success rate. Songs I already knew: Rock Lobster Favourites: Planet Claire, Rock Lobster I really enjoyed this album. It’s the perfect blend of silliness and good music for my taste. The lyrics are complete nonsense at times, but I still want to boogie to it nonetheless. I do generally have a soft spot for music that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it’s a fine line between silly and stupid. And once you get into stupid then you’ve lost me. Thankfully, I found this album pretty great, and I’ll likely be keeping this in mind for party playlists in the future.
amazing what happens when you listen to a full album, not just that one well known track
This is such an awesome album. I can not believe this was 1979. The vocals work so well with each other. Definitely a 4. 1. Rock Lobster 2. Lava 3. Dance This Mess Around 4. There’s a Moon in the Sky
Difficult not to love the B-52s. A shame most people only seem to know Love Shack and a more recently, now also Rock Lobster. First 5 songs absolute stone cold worldies. Particularly Dance This Mess Around. Love love love. Lots of fun to be had elsewhere. Pure party band you have to get up and do all 16 dances to, and low key queer pioneers. Hey. So don't that make you feel a lot better?
I'm pretty sure the B52s invented the whole "New Wave" genre with this album. I mean, that's gotta be something, right?
Fun, kooky, surf-ish punk craziness - just right up my street. Might get a tad repetitive at points, but I just can't get enough of Rock Lobster, Planet Claire and well, most of the songs here.
3,5/5
This is another favorite but not quite a 5 star album. It hits most of my criteria but not an album I'd play over and over. I just don't love it that much.
I love this album. From the opening "beep beep beep" of "Planet Claire" to the camp surf-guitar rock opera of "Rock Lobster," from hearts crackin' like Krakatoa to the unnamed moon in the sky, from every one of the 52 girls to... OK. You get it. The album is a 5-star affair up until "Hero Worship," which starts the slide into the final three tracks, which I still like while recognizing they're not as strong as the first 75% of the album. If we were to take the best of the second release ("Dirty Back Road," "Private Idaho," "Quiche Lorraine," "Strobe Light") and mash it with the best of this, you've got a masterpiece on your hands. Kate and Cindy's vocals, especially when harmonizing, are magic. Lyrically, this is so goofy, punctuated by one-off insights that make me chuckle every time I listen to it. Anyway, not a perfect album, but this band came out of left field 53 miles west of Venus and stirred the hot lava in my heart.
While Wikipedia likes to use the term “kitsch,” I prefer “High Fidelity Class.”
A unique record that can be listened to again and again and that immediately spreads a good mood and where you can't sit still.
Funky and fun but it wouldn't blow me away.
A great album and it doesn't sound over 40 years old. A reminder of how much fun and inventive music used to be. Couldn't help putting it on again to listen to as I enjoyed it so much
Boys in bikinis! Girls on surfboards! Some things last a long time. To be honest, Fred Schneider‘s actual vocals are my least favorite thing about the band’s music. His lyrics are fun, the camp vibes alongside surfy, rock and roll vamps make for a joyful listen. Fred’s nasal delivery is just a little grating at times. I’ll take the bad with the good when it comes to the B-52s. Instant alien beach party.
Very good
Another one of those bands I've never listened to a full album from. These guys were awesome. So weird yet fun and approachable. Great debut
This made me say, "What the fuck am I listening to?" but in a good way??? I can't say I've ever had quite the experience I had while listening to this album before. Everything worked, strangely enough, when it should have fallen apart. It really should have fallen apart, but it just kept going strong through sheer force of will. Rock Lobster rocks. Everything on this album rocks. Count me in as a new fan of The B-52's.
Honestly a really fun album
Tremendous fun. 🪨🦞 Fave track - "6060-842" is so catchy!
I enjoyed this album a lot more than I expected! The vocals are interesting in a cool way. I love the cadence and way each singer utilises their voice to complement the songs. It feels almost chaotic but a controlled chaos. My favourite songs were 52 Girls, Rock Lobster and There's a Moon in the Sky.
Such a fun album, B-52s bring that surf sound and have us all bopping along. Never forget that they had a cameo in The Flintstones movie as the BC-52s.
The vocal styles and music come together to create a fun and unique vibe. You definitely know you're listening to The B-52s when you hear them. The only downside is that this is the kind of album I have to be in the mood for; sometimes that kitschy style can be a little off putting. I'd probably give it a 3.5 but I think a bump to 4 for Rock Lobster and the overall abilities of the band.
Rock lobster
This was the fresh amazing sound of the B-52s that was never really repeated. This hasmy favorite songs. So fun.
He sings these songs like gay Joy Division
Love the singles, rest of the album is fine
i enjoy a bit of silliness now and then
I've never listened to an album by The B-52's. It was way less gimmick driven than I thought it would be. Some vocals verged on 90s grunge punk/grrrl power. I liked this one a lot.
The B-52’s prove it’s possible to be quirky without annoying everyone. Right from the beginning, they establish their unique identity by flirting with punk, new wave and surf rock.
Started to get into it after a few spins and the lyrics really pulled it to a 4.
Very fun weird and energetic music. Has some good highlights and kept surprising.
New wave excellence
Weird but surprisingly good
A little repetitive, but some absolute bangers. Overall really good
Had a blast listening to this. The vocals are so fun and silly. I love all the interplay and harmonies. Favorite part is when she makes the narwhal sounds in rock lobster. Pure joy.
Bizarre and kitschy in all the right ways. Not sure what's in the drinking water in Athens, Georgia, but it makes some truly fun music. Favorite tracks: "52 Girls", "Rock Lobster"
Spunky, with B-Movie flair. Feels distinct not just for it's place in the past, but still in the present. Solid overall.
A very Austin Powers-like feel. I like it a lot.
I enjoyed it, very weird songs
I haven't explored their discography in a systematic way, but I love the B-52's so damn much. This isn't their strongest album, but "Planet Claire" and "Rock Lobster" alone are worth four stars. I assume we'll be seeing more of their albums in the future, and I look forward to it.
Classic. Rock Lobster is one of those crazy infectious songs you can't help to dance to. From my 20s to now, I have countless memories of dancing to it with friends. I love the sound of Planet Claire, and the whole album is quintessential B-52s.
I remember first listening to this album in high school. And my swimming coach was like, "rock lobster!" but in a derogatory way. Yes, the B-52s are camp AF. Which was great when I was learning about music that didn't get played on the radio. I loved them because they were female led, and "weird," and (I didn't really have the language for it then) pop-y. 52 Girls is a legit great bop. The screams on Dance This Mess Around are pure Riot Grrl, with a 50s keyboard and surf rock guitar sound. No, this isn't high art. But it's definitely something different, fun, and absolutely a good album. Three stars for a solid album, and a fourth star because it came out in '79! 46 years later I still like listening to it.
Goofy, party music. I'm sure I've heard most of this record on the radio or at parties. I didn't really love it as an album, but the songs are all fun.
This is like if my buddy Roman was a record
gloriously weird. incredibly fun. a little less than a 5, but a solid 4
I was happy back then....
Iraq Lobster
Good music
Fun music, very different. Not sure if it's an every day listen, but enjoyable.
Great music for a montage of me hiding from a team of detectives with a dollar sign-marked burlap sack on my back. I love stupid goblin music and this album doesn't even slightly try to hide that it's stupid goblin music. Very strong 4/5! Please put this back on Spotify so I can add "Rock Lobster" to my shower playlist and feel like the baddest motherfucker around.
Good album I've never heard before. Some songs did drag on though. Still fun. 3.5/5
Really didn't enjoy the vocals on the first track, though I thought the soundscape was interesting. But it did pick up after that with a really catchy "52 Girls" and "Rock Lobster".
Yeah, this is pretty good! Fast, fresh, eclectic. And "Rock Lobster" may be the most copied riff of the past 50 or so years. B
Well this is fun! Bet nothing sounded like this in 1979.
B52s are an interesting band, the guy's voice is so distinctive and aside from that seems like a kind of spacey go-go music. I waffled between a 3 and a 4 listening to it, there are definitely some low points but damn if a lot of it isn't super catchy. It's kooky, camp, kitchsy, just so out there and unique that it definitely deserves a spot in this list.
This was a great funky pop/rock/new-wave album that I think really stands the test of time. A fantastic debut that feels well and truly like we have entered the 80s with this album, full of hook-laden beats and kitschy vocals. Definitely one to add to the playlist. Best: Rock Lobster Worst: Downtown
Schneider, Pierson, and that Farfisa organ are hypnotic.
Hearing surprising Michael Jackson sounds in the first track bass line
Fun as hell.
Solid debut album, I enjoyed it.
A sound mashed up from fifties rock and roll, easy listening and punk. I think that Wild Planet is a better album but it's a great debut.
A little bit of punk, a little pop and all somehow alien to the music scene of the late ‘70s. Headlined by a good single and featuring good tracks throughout.
I liked this more than I thought I would. Musically quite good.
I enjoyed how weird this was
ROCK LOBSTER/10. Or 4/5, whatever.
Otros locales de Athens GA
Great debut
Tons of fun, of course, but more musically interesting than I knew and just long enough not to grate.
Was great to listen to this one again, though I can see why people could find it annoying or weird. On my first listen several years ago stuck in a car trip in between parents, the guitarist was the sole appealing factor in a sea of bat-shit insanity. And it was such good playing too. But as time went on the music didn't go away from my head. And with every listen there would be something else to appreciate each time. The keyboards and synth bass, the chaotic vocals, the steady but loud drumming, and most importantly the songs. B-52's is something I couldn't listen to in every circumstance as there are certain times when learning about the Moon in the Sky and the girls of the USA can be incredibly annoying. But when the mood and/or the atmosphere is right, it's a joy. Rock Lobster has always been my pick of the bunch, a fantastic riff and breakdown, steady rhythm, filled with beautiful harmonies, story telling lead vocals, and insane animal noises. Dance This Mess Around and Planet Claire are the other highlights and the rest range from good to great.
Takes me back
first listen there's something otherworldly about this band, like aliens on acid imitating human music
Classic! 4.5 / 5
Rock Lobster! I actually really like the dynamic the group has, even with the very different sounding voices. A fun album. 7/10
Punk-Rumba!
Kitschy, cool, unique, and fun. What's not to like? Great debut album. 4 stars.
New wave, post-punk. Está bien. Un 4.
Está bien. Pero sin más.
Mi fanno venire in mente i Magma, deliranti così.
Lot's a great fun and energy. What's not to like.
Andy is psychic, y'all. Could you please mention something about Black Sabbath in your next review? Thx. Anywho, this came out in 1979??? I had no idea. They are an '80s/'90s band in my heart and there they shall remain. I enjoyed listening to this and I really do love the vocals across the board. That is the sound of this band, as far as I'm concerned. They could sing Will Smith's Oscar speech and it would fill me with joy. Nobody else sounds like this band because of those three vocalists. But man... did "Rock Lobster" have to be damn near 7 minutes long? They play that song on the kids' station on SiriusXM from time to time and I'm always in disbelief, because I can't keep it in my attention for 7 minutes so what's a kid supposed to do with it? (Know what else is also unapologetically long and feels even longer? That fucking "Space Jam" song. Oh my God in Heaven.) That aside, an enjoyable listen. I don't think I'll ever call myself a full-blown 52 Head, but I'd always welcome putting it on.
Killer. Great debut.
Not commercially as successful as Cosmic Thing, but definitely more impactful. Can't believe this came out in 1979. Still very worth a listen.
Fun album. ROCK LOBSTER!!! The cover of Downtown wasn't great.
Classic.
Pretty fun funky oddball tunes.
It’s easy to forget how out there this record seemed in the very late ‘70s. Holds up better than most kitsch of that era. Though the latter work significantly degraded their legacy (approaching at the nadir novelty act status), this is tight and hooky and edgy, interesting and original. Somehow arty and vaguely punk at the same time. 3.5 stars but gets 4 because of the originality.
Very solid debut from one of the strangest bands I can think of (in a good way). I was definitely aware of the B-52's through Love Shack and Rock Lobster (the latter being on this album) as well as through Kate Pierson's vocal appearance in R.E.M.'s 'Shiny Happy People'. Although I have enjoyed what I have heard from them in the past, I wouldn't have necessarily thought that an album of theirs could be worthy of being on a list like this; however, I think S/T earned a spot for sure due to how fun and unique it was. I would say this album was ahead of its time by a few years at least and that it fully embraced its weirdness in a way that there is a certain charm to it that is nearly impossible to duplicate. There is just so much personality here shown through their dorky beach rock vibes and very unique vocalists ('Hero Worship' had some insane vocals from Kate in a way that was almost Yoko Ono-esque). Overall, it was clear that this was their statement to the world and that nothing was going to stop them from being themselves which I can really respect. I wouldn't say it is the most finely-crafted or well-written album ever, but it is a fun listen that I would recommend to others. 3.5/5.
In a previous review of the band The Jams, I cited how polymath Carrie Brownstein (unf) mentioned the band being the gateway to her punk and alternative journey. So imagine my excitement when I get the chance to review yet another Carrie Brownstein gem. The B-52s played dance-y keyboard tinged rock known as New Wave, which was a related to, if not a sub-set, of Post Punk. In keeping with its punk roots, post punk was iconoclastic and defiant of boundaries, but in doing so, it favored keyboards and angular, single notes on guitar (as opposed to the power chorded rage of hardcore contemporaries like Black Flag). The B-52s self-titled album was a fun ride clocking in at just under 40 minutes. From the hypnotic synths and guitars of Planet Claire to the ridiculous but oddly-catchy Rock Lobster, to the punky guitar crunch of the irreverent Lava, the album was emotive and experimental without taking itself too seriously. The band sees both male and female vocals, both being utilized in whole songs , or as a call-and-response. As such, the influence on Sleater-Kinney is thus clear and apparent, as is their rightful place in the unsung line-up of post-punk greats.
Growing up I never really liked Love Shack or Rock Lobster, which was all I knew of the B-52's. The entire album is exciting and unique, ahead of its time maybe. Took me on a trip, that's for sure!
A Whole Day On The Bus From Thala To Béni Khiar. Still Sick, Only Heard Planet Claire
Decent album - knew a few of them from before - will play again.
This is a pretty good album, I recognized the voices when the first song started but I could come up where they came from. It was great actually listen to songs they have made that did not go as big as Love Shack and Rock lobster.
It’s hard to recall how offbeat and strange this album sounded back in 79. From the gradual build and killer guitar of Planet Claire to the body shaking Dance This Mess Around and the goofy Rock Lobster. It opened up a new day glo world to my 17 year old brain. Good stuff.
Pretty good. Love rock lobster
it was good!
Love it!
7/10
8/10. Just a really fun album. Gets a bit long, but stays exuberant
Toes the line between delightful and annoying expertly. I wish a few of the other songs had the same chaos as Rock Lobster. Still, it's an album I'd listen to again. 8/10
Solid new wave album
Was pretty disillusioned with 70’s music and then along came the B-52’s,and my music world heading into the 80’s changed…cool album and they only got better…fun,fun,fun
this was a lot of fun
kooky, packed with hooks and joy
Sounds like the soundtrack for my memories of college parties. A fun album from one of the many bands that came out of Athens, Georgia in the early 80's.
I've been secretly banging everyone in the B-52's behind their backs. I plan on revealing this information at the Christmas party and watching the fireworks go off. They all love me, the freaks.
cool punk esque alternative album with a uninque catchy sound
My introduction to the B-52's was their album "Cosmic Thing" which came 10 years after this album. I have listened to this album at least once before to hear the rest of the album that includes "Rock Lobster". The B-52's have a consistent sound throughout the album. If you like the band you'll probably like the album. "Rock Lobster" (with all of its oddities) and "Planet Claire" are the tracks I'm most likely to revisit. I do like the band, and I like many of their songs. I may not come back to the album very soon, but I wouldn't be surprised if I do.
Totally distinctive sound, fun record.
7/10
Athens' new wave spawned the quirky dance-music with Sixties overtones of the B52's, basically a synthesis of the three leading phenomena of the time (new wave, disco-music and Sixties revival). (7/10) FT: Rock Lobster
261020 10:57 3.5
I've never heard this whole album. It's fun
Certainly unique and original. Weird surf guitar mixed with haunted organ and lots of shouting. I didn’t know they were doing this a full 10 years before Love Shack. It did get a bit ‘one trick’ to keep my interest for a full album though.
Hey, I've heard this band before. Took 4 days to get to a band I know! First time listening to a whole album straight through, though. Toe-tapping fun! I think I like late 70s/early 80s New Wave. I don't know if I knew that Rock Lobster was that long of a song.
This was surprisingly good. The album can't really escape the decade it was made in, so it sounds a little bit dated, but even then this is way more original than many albums coming out today. The songs are fun, kind of psychodelic at times and in general really good. Saving it to my list to listen more another day.
Love the B52s sound. So different for the time...especially coming out of Athens Georgia. Just fun songs all around. 4/5
Fun campy music
Surprised me. In a good way
Very 70's and very groovy. Really liked it.
Great poppy dance number
Fan Ade
Listened 2/10/21
Saved Prior: Rock Lobster Off Rip: Planet Claire, 52 Girls, 6060-842, Downtown Cutting Edge: None Overall Notes: The word "kitsch" is used all over this band's wiki, and it's the perfect description of their music. Underrated hook writers, they're spiritual predecessors of the hyper-pop of today imo. Love Rock Lobster, a truly insane song that somehow works.
Es muy sencillo, a quien no le gustan los B 52s no tiene alma. No hay mucho que pensar, no son un parteaguas en nada particular, no tienen mucha sustancia pero son música absurda tremendamente divertida y bien hecha que si bien no cambió mucho durante su carrera tampoco bajo su calidad. Podrían poner aquí este disco con Rock Lobster o poner Loveshack que es de años adelante y no se siente la diferencia. No hay mucho que decir pero tampoco mucho de qué quejarse, quizá unicamente que el disco pueda llegar a sentirse un poco repetitivo hacia el final y pudiera sentirse también un poco largo. Esa queja es de personas matarrisas, el disco es pop del mejor y más alegre que pudiera encontrar.
Los B-52's son una banda muy curiosa porque son casi casi un género en sí mismos y tal vez sin darse cuenta inventaron el sonido esteretípico de fiesta de Halloween. Aunque todas las rolas suenan bastante bastante parecidas entre ellas, la música no es nada mala y no me molesta nada cuando aparecen aleatoriamente en mi música.
Fun throwback but not my favorite stuff
It's the B-52's, but without arguably their top two songs. Solid album, nothing to turn your nose up at, just not a 5.
Fancy, cool, geht in den Nacken
Vernieuwende band met veel invloed op jaren 90 muziek en verder. Vrolijke deuntjes waar je je wel even voor open moet stellen, maar vooral live zo ongelooflijk leuk om mee te maken. Dikke vier ster
Fun fun music
The B-52's have always had a special brand of wacky mixed with surf rock, and I've always appreciated it.
free spirited and adventurous.
Not a bad album. Good background music with catchy beats.
Gute Laune Musik. Gut für "im Hintergrund laufen lassen".
This a very fun and interesting album. It's like the perfect mix of kitsch, British pop, funk and 60's sci-fi. The songs are upbeat with a particular sound that I really enjoyed.
Aangename easy listening, Rock Lobster is geweldig! 4/5
Kuulosti vähän surffirokilta. Levyn kansikuvan ja artistikuvan perusteella odotin jotain ABBA-kopiota, joten yllätys oli iloinen. Tykkäsin kyllä levystä, mutta lopun Downtown-cover meinasi olla vähän liikaa, miksihän sellainen oli pitänyt tunkea mukaan? Arvosana levylle olisi suunnilleen 3.5. Pyöristettäköön kivasti ylöspäin.
Good fun
Music that's fun, I enjoyed.
Está bien. Pero sin más.
This album starts out brilliantly with a hommage to the Peter Gunn theme with Planet Claire, legs are a' moving and head is a' bopping. Funky, punky, kitchy and so much fun. To this day Rock Lobster still gets everyone on the dancefloor.
Fine
Athens GA represent! Love the girls voices and the sounds of the guitar is great. How did Fred get that job?
I like how goofy this band is, and I like their surf rock sound. My dad used to play them for us kids sometimes. LOVE "Rock Lobster." I don't think they needed to include the cover of "Downtown", that track weakened a pretty good album.
A true unicorn of a music group. Great record, so much fun, so weird and funky.
catchy hooks, surprise funk, driving beat, and ridiculous FUN lyrics. Refreshing.
I enjoyed this. A little weird, but that's par for B-52s.
This was a pretty good album, the production was great als ahead of its time 8,5/10
3.75/5. I liked this. It’s was weird, different, and good. I would not mind revisiting this.
I like how raw the recordings sound. But overall not really my cup of tea.. I think. Lennon liked it, makes me question my music taste a bit. But I did not enjoy it as much. thats okay. Rock Lobster caught my interest. Maybe I will give it another listen. Maybe not. 3/5
A bit tiring
Decent instrumentals with subpar vocals 3/5
Decent background music at work. Would be fun at a party. Would not add it to my regular rotation.
Love it or hate it, for better or for worse, I can’t listen to the song “Rock Lobster” without thinking of the show Family Guy. The song has permanently been ingrained into the deepest corners of my subconscious because of that stupid show. And yet, I’m pretty confident that this is the first time I’ve actually heard it in full. Man, this is another weird band. Like, Frank Zappa weird. This was made with every conceivable drug imaginable, I’m sure of it. It definitely has a charm, but it’s just extraordinarily weird as well. I only recognized the hit, “Rock Lobster”, and it’s probably for a good reason. There are the other songs on this album, and then there’s that one. It’s catchy, it’s appropriately weird, and the little extra bits of flare the song has with some of the riffs and background elements are just charming. Yeah, it’s the best song on the album, and it’s also my favorite. Nice, long, earwormy, and memed to hell and back because of Family Guy. Peak song. From start to finish, the song keeps changing and always manages to keep sounding awesome. The rest are pretty earwormy too, but don’t hold a candle in the wind to the stupid brilliance of “Rock Lobster”. Now, the website categorizes this album as Rock, but I kind of disagree with that categorization. I don’t know if it was considered Rock in 1979 when it released, but this is closer to Pop, or even Pop Punk in my opinion. Some of the songs, especially the ones sung by Cindy Wilson like “52 Girls” and “Dance This Mess Around” just come off like classic 70’s Pop, with a little Punk thrown in the mix, and a whole lot of weirdness with the vocals. There were a few moments in “Dance This Mess Around” where I thought the singers were attempting to charm a snake. And still, it’s all catchy. Not in an annoying way. In a truly charming way, and that’s very tough to pull off. The biggest compliment I can give this album is that despite having some classic 70’s vibes all around, it does sound pretty weirdly unique, in a good way. The best thing I can say about it is that every single song is an earworm because of the cool instrumentation and inherent weirdness of the band members. They’re all very funny, and it shows on every song. Quite charming really. It’s still a 3, but it’s a 3 I feel very happy to have spent my day with, and I would return to this album, maybe even check out some more B-52’s later. I personally like “Rock Lobster” more, but “Love Shack” is another really good song by them that everyone should check out if they haven’t already. It’s unfortunately not featured on this album, but that’s fine. We’re living in an age where every song imaginable is easily accessible at this point. To get back on track, I’ll end my review by saying this. This was an extremely lively, fun album, and I had a blast listening to it today. I’m a fan of this band now.
Rock pop punk insanity. Who comes up with this (B52s I guess)? Not sure what the point is (perhaps there doesn’t have to be one) & not always easy, but original & fun, and rock lobster is irresistible.
Classic just not for me
I enjoyed these delightful weirdos. Good summer tunes. Particularly good use of surf guitar sound.
Unique
Bopped my head to it more than I should for a 2 star album, so I'll give it a 3. ROCK LOBSTER! 3/5 Top Tracks: Rock Lobster, Downtown
Listening to this was a tug-of-war between hate/love. Sometimes the yell/scream lead nature of the lead vocals felt like a joke but sometimes it felt very cool and very punk. I don't know where the line is between the two. The music itself is held back by the vocals and it's a real shame. Highlights: There's A Moon In the Sky
Ok not very varied. Same sound throughout. A couple of interesting songs.
Surprisingly good. Never heard of this album or this band. It was a little bit different but it was good to work to. Will defo listen again
Pretty great album. Rock lobster is obviously the standout, what an amazing song it is. The extended mix here goes in many weirder directions. I think the production on this record is what makes rock lobster so great, also the band seems really tight.
Notable Textzeile: If you're lucky you get to ride in a gold meteorite If you're not, you get a mouth, a mouthful of red Kryptonite You better move over Here comes a Super-nova Rock Lobster hat wirklich alles was man braucht: 6:52 Spielzeit, einen der dümmsten Texte der Welt mit 7 Strophen und Tanning Butter. Ich dachte schon, das wäre der Peak, aber als ich dann auch noch gelesen habe, dass sie 2023 eine Las Vegas Residency hatten hat mich das schon sehr nostalgische gemacht zu einer Zeit in der Plattenfirmen einerseits jeden Mist pushen konnten, es aber andererseits eben auch noch nicht jede*r eine Kritiker*in war und Leute mit verrücktem Quatsch von der Musik leben konnten und zwar ihr Leben lang. Da kommt dann ja auch die tragische Note rein, das für Ricky Wilson das nicht so lang war. Das Tragische passt zu dem quatschigen so gar nicht. Was mir wirklich gefällt, dass hier klar ist, dass keiner der Beteiligten, im Gegensatz zu den Talking Heads, die zum Teil ja ähnliche Vocals haben, ernst nimmt oder für große Kunst hält, das schließe ich aus Rock Lobster oder auch dem hervorragenden Songtitel "there's a moon in the Sky (called the moon). Werde ich nie wieder absichtlich hören, aber irgendwie hat es mich gekriegt.
Quite a bit more straight up 80’s DEVO esque weirdo pop, on top of the insanely catchy novelty songs. Pretty fun!
Never listened. Expectations: Mid - Verdict: Very Good - The extended intro of Planet Claire sets you up well for the quirky, fun ride that you are about to go on. The way the grooves twist together on this is really cool. I enjoy every song more than I expected. The second half is a clear step down from the first but I still find it enjoyable. We will see but I can see myself listening to this a fair bit.
Slightly eccentric pop
So I audibly groaned when this popped up. I’m glad I finally listened to the whole album. I respect what they’re doing but I’m not going to spend more time with it. I like weird, but a different weird.
It's the B-52s.
Smittende rytmer på de fleste låtene, men opplegget blir for irriterende i lengden.
Never heard of these guys before. Decent one-time listen.
EVERYBODY had matching towels!
There is something very likable about the B-52s. Both the male & female lead singers have interesting voices. This music makes me think of Peewee. And I mean that in the best way possible.
This is just some good fun. Really puts a smile on your face
Not a long album by any means but I got really really tired of it by the end of it... Finished it but I didn't desire to
Like a lot of your people in the UK in the 80's my only real exposure to The B-52's was 'Love Shack' and 'Roam', they were huge during the late 80's and got played constantly on radios and even in pubs and clubs. This even continued well into the 90's too, more so for Love Shack than Roam. I wasn't really sure what to expect from this album, so I went in quite open-minded. It was decent, I could see a clear link between this album and their later output, there is a definite 'sound' for this band - not just instrumentally but also vocally (which I suppose is really another instrument anyway). I couldn't pick a single stand-out track, but there was nothing close to dog-shit either.
It’s rough. Quite good though. Obviously I was a big fan of the final cover of ‘downtown’
Hmmm, this is fun and interesting but do I like it? Idk
Loved the energy. Found the female vocals quite grating.
I was ready to throw this music under the bus (while acknowledging how much it means to the people who listened to it beyond the notes and chords, with the fashion and the camp and such), but a lot of the songs sang by Cindy Wilson and Kate Pierson were actually kinda sick. When it started with Planet Claire I was like okay this is all gonna be Rock Lobster bs, but then 52 Girls into Dance This Mess Around I was like oh this is actually kinda menacing and fun. I’ll even go so far as to say Rock Lobster is more enjoyable in the context of the entire album. I can’t truly say I enjoy Fred Schneider’s shtick but the ladies really carry this thing even with their background vocals. The way they swap between unison and crunchy harmonies is chef’s kiss. I don’t expect I’ll seek this record out front-to-back again, but I’m leaving with a more open mind about this group and what they were doing.
Divertido pero monótono en fin
The B-52's are one of those bands that I think I should like more than I do. They are from a time period that I enjoy a lot of music from; they are from Athens; and their music is often catchy and fun. Plus their whole shtick with the retro clothes and silly lyrics is the kind of thing I generally enjoy. There is just a lot about them to like, but they kind of leave me cold. I think the reasons that I don't like them more include the fact that they are kind of post-punkish, which is a sound that just always hits my ears wrong, and the fact that I don't enjoy Fred Schneider's nasally talk-singing. But a quote I read today really put things in perspective: “I was at a dance club one night in Bermuda,” [John] Lennon told Rolling Stone in an interview recorded three days before his death in 1980. “Upstairs, they were playing disco, and downstairs I suddenly heard ‘Rock Lobster’ by the B-52’s for the first time. Do you know it? It sounds just like Yoko’s music.” In particular, Cindy Wilson’s scream toward the end of the song was reminiscent of Ono’s approach. “I said to meself, ‘It’s time to get out the old ax and wake the wife up!’” Lennon said. John Lennon was mostly wrong, as he usually was, but he wasn't totally wrong. The B-52's are like Yoko Ono in that they are screechy. Screechy vocals. Screechy guitars. Just kind of a screechy band. I think that, at its core, is why I don't like them as much as I think I should. That being said, this is mostly poppy and fun enough to be okay, despite my reservations.
overall a fun album, which i was expecting from the B-52s. nothing rlly stuck out to me other than rock lobster which is just cuz i knew that already lol i also didnt rlly fuck with their cover of downtown either tbh
The instrumentals are super good, but the vocals are just not it for me.
Estoy atrasado, algo escuché, no conozco nada de ellos pero parece ser algo lindo de escuchar y un sonido distinto para su época. Me dan ganas de escuchar algunos temas si!
It's fun, it's catchy, it's kinda ridiculous at times, it's the B-52's. Just a 3 for me.
This is just my opinion but Rock Lobster blows, worst song on the record honestly. The rest of the album wasn't bad though I don't feel the need to revisit this ever again. How this is on a list of albums you MUST hear before you die is beyond my comprehension.
6/10
Silly space noises - it’s the late 70s. Planet Claire uniquely interesting for me because it’s my mum’s name. What a thought. 52 girls is a very funny concept. It’s nice listening to music that doesn’t take itself too seriously, it’s nice that it’s fun and dynamic and experimental without trying to be actively unpleasant. Obviously it’s annoying. I just like camp, I find it more interesting than other kinds of annoying. I like it when women are involved in art. I enjoyed Rock Lobster.
Rock Lobster! Classic new wave with fun songs and lyrics
Not bad actually. Cheesy and fun. Some interesting ideas here, in kind of a weird pop new wavey kinda way. Campy and silly.
3.5 stars if I could 🪨🦞🦞🦞🦞 I am gonna be more in depth next album let's see what it is
now I know how it feels to take hard drugs but jokes aside there was a vibe to this I gotta say
When this one generated I was shocked and a bit scared that I'd find it awful (I really don't like Love Shack). What a great surprise this album was. Weird, new wave anesthetic and sound, but some good variety and some really interesting tracks. This really was a pleasant surprise.
It's kind of goofy, but okay.
Can appreciate it for its eccentricity and the beep-bob-ness of it all but not my personal jam. I recognized rocklobster and it is a good song but then it got stuck in my head when i was trying to sleep and it became a nightmare scenario. I like the girls voice but the guy kinda sounded like squilliam from spongebob
This was fun, but also, kind of annoying? Like a really cool pair of socks with an irritating little burr in them. "Rock Lobster" is such an ear worm! It's great. And "Lava" sounds a lot like REM, which was fun. Overall - campy, fun, irritating. THREE STARS
This is quirky and fun but I had no desire to listen to it a second time.
I like that they took a sound from the 50’s/60’s and made it almost kitsch in a really fun way. But not my fav.
Smooth listening, kind of beach vibes
Love Planet Claire and a couple of others. It becomes repetitive quickly, though, and it’s hard to take them seriously. They just exude novelty song
Perfect for playlists, karaoke, or watching live at a bar. Would never throw on the album just to listen to.
Not sure what to expect but not bad so far Sounds like it should be a Halloween soundtrack Not bad but weird/not something I’d listen to on the daily
Rock lobstah. I know nothing about the B-52s as people but I can only imagine they would have been insufferable.
Some songs are such a slay but some songs are very weird.
Love this band and the launch point for their career, “Rock Lobster,” which is a shockingly popular song for its vast experimentation and singular sound. The rest of the album is quite a bit less subversive and as such doesn’t affect me.
I have no idea why, but I was feelin this
A highly original act for the time, championed by John Lennon and some of their sounds were not dissimilar to what Yoko was trying on Double Fantasy. It's like hearing The Munsters doing surf rock at times, and their reputation as a live act was legendary. I think they made better music 10 years later but without this album they may never have become a famous group. A lot of fun and very refreshing for the time
Never really got the B-52s. It's fine but the talk-singing grates.
Kudos to them for doing their own thing. These guys, and Devo, were so unique when they first broke through compared to all the mainstream stuff that was out there. Fred Snyder can't sing, but nobody cares because when you're dancing and/or drunk off your ass, then who cares. Three stars because it doesn't really qualify as music, but is still very innovative in a good way.
Weird but weird is good. Not too high or low on this one, it definitely has its spot among these albums.
Didn’t leave a huge impression
Better than I remember - Still not a real chorus - It was fine
High 3, very fun and technically impressive but not quite my style!
Yea fine. Some of it is pretty fun. This list has made me hate new wave though
An overdose of silliness. Where did all the whimsy go
The gaydar is running amok! Talking Heads, Abba og G-bar har fået et barn, og det lyder crazy Rock Lobster er måske det mærkeligste nummer, jeg nogensinde har hørt Det er lidt det der barn, der sidder bagerst i klasselokalet, som man aldrig rigtig har forstået, men som man heller ikke rigtig kan have noget imod - fordi selvom de er weird, så er det da anderledes om ikke andet - og måske egentlig rimelig fængende på sådan en trafikuhelds-måde. Jeg kan ikke helt kigge væk fra de flotte farver og underlige lyde. 3.5
Honey come quick! This website gave us energy, excitement and fun by gracing us with B-52’s!!! I’ve come back to this album a few times over the past few days and hence the belated review as I never seem to finish it in one sitting, and so my views are also more skewed to the beginning of the album. It gives off the scooby doo gang all grown up hanging around a diner making animal noises. It can be weird and poppy at times with the squealing, but how can you not want to dance around whilst listening?
Funky, but a bit much for me
I’ve always thought of The B-52’s as some form of non-serious novelty act, and with good reason, so there was perhaps some scepticism and surprise on my part when this popped up. I enjoyed the listen, it’s up my street musically, blending new wave, art and surf rock together. The quirkiness of the vocals and lyrics isn’t going to put me off as I often like something more eccentric but at the same time, I wonder if it would wear thin.
One of the weirdest music things that exists, mostly one note but definitely worth experiencing
From the album cover alone, you can already tell that The B-52's don’t take themselves too seriously, and that immediately gives you a sense that The B-52's is going to be a fun listen. And it absolutely is. The album is packed with humour, personality, and energy, and it sounds completely different from a lot of the music coming out in the late 70s. There’s a weirdness and individuality to it that makes it stand out straight away. It mixes new wave, surf rock, pop, and dance music into something that feels playful, colourful, and genuinely fresh. What really works is the energy running through the whole album. The music has a brilliant rhythm to it, the vocals are eccentric in the best possible way, and everything feels carefree and full of life. It’s not trying to be deep or overly serious — it just wants you to have fun, and that attitude makes the album incredibly easy to enjoy. Even when the songs are silly, there’s something really catchy and memorable about them. It feels like a band fully embracing their own strange identity and having a great time doing it. Favourite tracks: “Rock Lobster” is a brilliant, fun, catchy tune and easily the standout for me Least favourite tracks: Nothing on the album is terrible — it’s consistently entertaining throughout Album artwork: Great album cover. I love how the image pops against the bright yellow background — it perfectly matches the quirky energy of the music
Such a fun band
😅 The B-52s just aren't my cup of tea. This was like listening to a bunch of songs that sounded kinda like "Love Shack". Perhaps today wasn't the right day for this to click but it's the day it was chosen.
Instrumentals were insane but lyrics were meh
The kitchiness isn't really my vibe but there's undeniably some good songwriting here. In terms of the compositions and the actual instrument work there's a lot to love, it's mainly just some of the quirky vocals that drag the record down for me, like the scatting (if that's even how to describe it, IDK) on Rock Lobster. I've never really listened to an album that sounded so cool yet so annoying at the same time. It's a weird feeling. Favourite tracks: 52 Girls, Lava
That was ok. I was shocked that I know a few songs of them, I love them. Other thacks ware not for my taste
some bangers and some stinkers
Bimibng motherucker
A little too funky with grinding vocals at times but fun overall. Liked Lava and Lobster best.
family guy ahh album
Kind of a weird album, and aside from rock lobster there's not a ton here worth hearing.the B-52s have other good songs, they're just not on this album.
Have had a run of stuff from the late-70s and early-80s lately: punk, new wave, post-punk, and whatever this is. They all have this sneering swagger in common, even if some are angry, some melancholy, and in this case, absurdist and silly. Some indelible songs, but the pony veers dangerously close to only having one trick...
I don't think i'll ever hear another album as kitschy as this. it is kinda charming
I never took to the band’s kitsch, and, well, some of the vocals are a little shrill. But the album is still largely fun—and helped establish New Wave, which I love.
This album lived up to my expectations, having never heard it before. It’s upbeat, happy sounding, and maybe just a little erratic. When you hear it, you have to start dancing. A breath of fresh air compared to the other alternative music on this list. They may not be the best musicians or make the best music, but at least they’ll make you smile a little.
I definitely have some fun memories associated with these guys and I do enjoy some of the songs but this style can get a bit old after a while. 3.5/5
Fun
Esta cool original
Pleasantly surprised by this, as I absolutely detest 'Love Shack'. Had that post-punk rawness and oddness that I look for. Would listen again.
la primer canción parece de spys. punk girlie muy girlie. setentozo medio de película. canciones con sonidos raros medio surrealistas, sin sentido, dadaísta.
"Very funky sounds. I knew going into this album that it was about to be an experience of sounds, and it did not disappoint. ""Rock Lobster"" is a classic. "
Niet heel spectaculair, wel een aardige verrassing. Puntje extra voor de originaliteit.
It was okay, sounded a bit like spy music but rock lobster was funny and a classic.
Kinda wack but I can understand the appeal at the time
Ok, but a bit samey and not quite my thing
interesting start but gets boring real quick
Fun, kinda goofy dance rock album. Crazy that this came out in 1979, the songs all sound like leftovers from 1965. ‘Rock Lobster’ is the track everyone knows, but I thought ‘Planet Claire’ and ‘There’s a Moon in the Sky (Called the Moon)’ were better, and ‘Hero Worship’ kinda had a Joan Jett-type edge to it. Far from a flawless album, but a good, low-stakes listen for a Friday morning. Solid 3/5
New to me favourite: Dance this mess around
Nice
Me ha gustado mucho el rollo setentero. Un disco divertido
Rough around the edges but has its charms
It was not a good album for me! Sorry.
3 Stars (8/15)
I like the B-52s and Rock Lobster is a banger and also the morris code at the beginning of the first track is cool but ultimately the rest of the songs sounded the same to me
Contexte atténuant, la go qui crie c'était pas pour moi, mais passages vraiment très intéressants
Good
Pretty fun and goofy.
Upbeat, quirky, and proudly weird—but mostly just grating. A couple of fun moments, but the frantic surf‑pop energy wears thin fast. I’ve heard three B‑52s songs before this, and honestly? I’m not convinced I need to hear any more.
Goofy but there are some serious tunes in here that I liked or were musically inventive/challenging.
Not all of it is great, but I enjoyed a good chunk of this. And learnt where Soulwax sampled the riff for Six Days.
Could have been a 4, because while not my style I could still (mostly) appreciate the album for being fun. But good lord what an awful cover of Downtown. I know the album was already less than 40 minutes long but you could still trim that off.
Albeit iconic, fad inducing, proto indie, and a nu wave sensation. Finally sitting down and listening to the full album didn't do much for me. Some psychedelic and classic r&b sounds in there coupled with big up do's and 1960s mod essence. Its just not that important or great of an album. Rock Lobster is always a great song but standalone. Rest of it is run of the mill.
I have talked SO MUCH shit about the B-52’s over the years.. but I really enjoyed this
I don't mess with Fred Schnider's vocals, which is my main dislike about the album as a whole. There's a lot of potential here but it's delivered in such an empty and unfinished way, that the whole record sounds cartoony and bare. Most songs run way too long for their own good, and just keep repeating the same ideas. I don't get the B-52s fuss whatsoever, but I still mess with some songs on side B to an extent. I just wish they could flesh out more ideas into a song to keep it engaging. The female vocalists are out of this world though.
6/10
The music reminded me of the Aquabats and it turns out the Aquabats once opened for the B-52's!
I’ve only ever seen Rock Lobster as a gimmick song, so this was better than I expected.
It's pretty odd, but I quite liked it.
rock lobster
3⭐️/5 03.29.2026
Planet Girl // 52 Girls // 2.5/5
Iconic album, but doesn't rise to a higher level.
Rock Lobser
Not a big fan of teh first track especially cause of teh way of singing.
Listed
interesting sounds but not smth im gonna listen to
This was the band's debut album. They used classic rock elements as a vehicle for their quirky vocals and lyrics. Think like a comical depiction of aliens in television, and that's how their music sounds. It was fun for a little while, but I admittedly got bored of it pretty quickly. The guitar hook in "Rock Lobster" is iconic, and it was cool to hear where that hook comes from.
Настолько быстро забывается, что уже даже не помню ничего оттуда
Звучание интересное для тех времен, но уж очень однообразно и сумбурно.
Spiky, kitschy, kinda-sexy, arty weirdness. Plenty to enjoy.
B-52's, or: "Hear a sound go from delightfully unique to surprisingly normal to frankly a bit annoying in just 9 songs".
Enjoyed it, surf punk, lively great guitar. A 3 or 4 but I’ll err towards a 3 just lacked that extra bit of something.
3.4. Super original. The guitar sounds great. The cover of Downtown didn’t add anything but minutes.
Predictably cooky and zany. “Lava” is the only song I hadn’t heard before; otherwise it’s a nice walk down memory lane and that’s all.
niceeeeeee