Reviews (page 5 of 8)
Ooh I love this one. Was trying to categorize the sound and Wikipedia used the term “dance punk.” That’s it. I like the stripped down sound and focus on lyrics and a heavy rhythm. It’s what I like about bands like the white stripes. Good start to finish.
Gang of Four - very cool! This album pumped me up quite a bit and kept me awake on the plane. I like the Crunchy riffs and mosh-able vibes. Standout tracks are: “Natural’s Not in It” and “Contract”
I’ve read that a number of bands were inspired by Gang of Four and I can see why and hear their influences in those later groups.
Good and cool
waiter! waiter! more mid punk please!
Goddamn this album rules. An explosive release of nervous energy. This was the coolest band to rip off among all the cool bands I grew up seeing in the DC area back in 2000 (Q and not U, Rapture, Black Eyes etc). It makes sense as it's a perfect formula - driving funk bass, slashing wild guitars, extremely kinetic drums, and yelped vocals that are basically another percussion instrument - for high energy, danceable, and unrelentingly hip party punk. Damaged Goods is the perfect post-punk song.
## **In-Depth Review of Gang of Four's *Entertainment!* Album** Gang of Four’s debut album, *Entertainment!* (1979), is widely regarded as one of the most groundbreaking records in post-punk history. It combines abrasive musical experimentation with sharp, politically charged lyrics, creating a work that remains influential decades after its release. Below is an in-depth analysis of the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and cultural impact, along with its pros and cons. --- ### **Lyrics** The lyrics on *Entertainment!* are unapologetically political and thought-provoking. Jon King’s writing critiques capitalism, media manipulation, and societal norms with a directness that avoids pretension. Tracks like "Ether" and "Natural’s Not In It" dissect issues like colonialism and the commodification of human relationships. For example, "Natural’s Not In It" observes sex and love as consumer products: “The body is good business / Sell out, maintain the interest”[5]. Similarly, "Damaged Goods" ties themes of love and commerce together in a brutally honest way. The album’s lyrical style often uses repetition to drive home its points, ensuring clarity without sacrificing depth. The call-and-response structure in tracks like "Ether" further emphasizes contradictions within societal systems[1]. Even the album’s lone love song, "(Love Like) Anthrax," is an anti-love anthem that critiques the superficiality of romantic clichés[2]. Gang of Four’s lyrics are not just commentary—they are confrontational statements designed to provoke thought. --- ### **Music** Musically, *Entertainment!* is a masterclass in post-punk innovation. The band blends punk’s raw energy with funk-inspired rhythms and dub reggae influences to create a sound that is both abrasive and danceable. Andy Gill’s guitar work is jagged and angular, often eschewing traditional solos for sharp stabs and dissonant riffs. His playing on tracks like "At Home He’s a Tourist" epitomizes tension-and-release dynamics[5]. Dave Allen’s bass lines are equally crucial, providing syncopated grooves that often act as the backbone of the songs. Tracks like "Guns Before Butter" showcase intricate interplay between bass and guitar in a call-and-response format[5]. Meanwhile, Hugo Burnham’s drumming adds frenetic energy to the mix, creating rhythms that feel urgent yet tightly controlled. The band adhered to a strict manifesto: “No corny lyrics, no obvious melodies, and no change of key”[6]. This approach results in music that feels stripped-down yet layered—each instrument contributes equally without overshadowing the others. The absence of traditional rock tropes like guitar solos or melodic hooks underscores their rejection of mainstream formulas[6]. --- ### **Production** The production on *Entertainment!* is deliberately raw and minimalist. Andy Gill avoided effects pedals and warm tones in favor of a cold, sharp sound that matches the album’s confrontational ethos[4]. The equalized production ensures no instrument dominates—a reflection of the band’s democratic approach to music-making[6]. Dub reggae influences are evident in the spacious arrangements; rather than filling every sonic gap, the production allows room for tension to build organically. This creates a sense of unease that complements the lyrical themes perfectly[6]. While some listeners might find this sparse production challenging initially, it ultimately serves the album's purpose by emphasizing its starkness. --- ### **Themes** Thematically, *Entertainment!* is deeply rooted in socio-political critique. The band explores topics such as capitalism ("Natural’s Not In It"), media propaganda ("5:45"), colonialism ("Ether"), and interpersonal relationships viewed through a transactional lens ("Damaged Goods"). These themes are presented with a Neo-Marxist perspective but avoid dogmatic rhetoric; instead, they offer incisive observations that resonate universally. One standout theme is the manipulation of public perception by media and capitalism. Tracks like "Contract" interrogate how societal expectations shape personal relationships[5]. The album also critiques historical narratives—"Not Great Men" challenges the glorification of leaders while highlighting systemic oppression[5]. Gang of Four intertwines personal and political issues seamlessly, showing how macro-level systems influence individual experiences. This thematic depth makes *Entertainment!* timelessly relevant[3][6]. --- ### **Influence** *Entertainment!* has had an enduring impact on music and culture. It inspired countless artists across genres—from Nirvana's Kurt Cobain to Frank Ocean—and helped shape the post-punk movement as a whole[3]. Bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers have cited Gang of Four as a major influence on their funk-rock sound[3]. Despite its lackluster commercial performance upon release, *Entertainment!* has become a staple on "Greatest Albums" lists from outlets like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork[4][3]. Its radical approach to music-making encouraged generations of artists to push boundaries both sonically and lyrically. --- ### **Pros** 1. **Innovative Sound**: The fusion of punk energy with funk rhythms and dub influences creates a unique musical experience. 2. **Sharp Lyrics**: Jon King’s direct yet poetic writing tackles complex issues without resorting to pretension. 3. **Equalized Production**: The balanced mix ensures every instrument contributes equally to the overall sound. 4. **Timeless Themes**: The socio-political critiques remain relevant decades later. 5. **Cultural Impact**: Its influence on artists from various genres solidifies its legacy. --- ### **Cons** 1. **Accessibility**: The album’s abrasive sound and unconventional song structures may alienate casual listeners. 2. **Sparse Production**: While intentional, some may find the minimalist approach lacking warmth or polish. 3. **Commercial Appeal**: Its refusal to conform to mainstream formulas limited its initial success. 4. **Repetitive Elements**: The frequent use of repetition in lyrics might feel redundant to some listeners. --- ### **Conclusion** Gang of Four's *Entertainment!* is more than just an album—it’s a manifesto for radical music-making. Its combination of politically charged lyrics, innovative musicality, and raw production challenges conventions while inspiring reflection on societal issues. Though it may not appeal to everyone due to its abrasive style and uncompromising stance, it remains one of post-punk's defining works. For those willing to engage with its complexities, *Entertainment!* offers profound insights into both personal struggles and systemic injustices—a timeless reminder that music can be both entertaining and revolutionary.
Not the most exciting album. I do think I'd listened to it before, as I do like 'Damaged Goods' - it is one of my favourite songs. Wasn't pleasant, more background listening.
I had heard about Gang of Four and thought this album was going to be right down my alley. It was. There was more funk and what felt like pre-Red Hot Chili Peppers in many ways. Damaged Goods, Return the Gift and Guns Before Butter are all songs I feel like RHCP would have written. This is a really good album and I am putting this in my list of albums to give another listen to. Really fun post-punk and it's much less rock-y and more funk-oriented than any other post-punk albums that have been on this list. Recommend.
This album kinda sucked. Everything sounded the same and neither the singing nor the instrumentals were particularly good. 4/10.
If you told me this album was released yesterday, I would believe you without question.
This was my first recommended rock album. I was listening to it while working out. It made me wish I had known about the Gang of Four before. My father, who was nine when this album came out, enjoyed it, too.
I've reccently learned that I really love dance punk, and I've been meaning to listen to this album for a while. I usually tend to find 70's punk pretty boring, but this album is a blast. Super fun beats and very energetic. My only problem is that it does all start to sound the same as the album goes on. Low 5 (on the verge of a 4).
I think Solid Gold is a better album and belongs on this list instead of this one. I like this one enough but Solid Gold is head and shoulders above it.
Some guys having fun and making a punk record. It was worth it because they made a fun punk record.
generally inoffensive punk with some cool stuff here and there
This sounds like a bunch of guys coming together to make music for the first time, having fun and not taking themselves too seriously. I liked it
It's amazing how every new post-punk band still sounds like this. The only snag is that I'm kinda sick of those bands, even though this version of it is obviously very good.
A bit funkier post punk than usual, mixing a bit of punk, reggae and ska, so three of my least favourite music genres (in general). This album was almost listenable, which speaks for itself. Let's just end this list finally.
I have no clue why I slept on this album for as long as I have, or Gang Of Four for that matter! Crunchy, angular, stabby guitars, driving rhythm section with punk attitude but more accessible than the faster, more aggressive punk.
Very fun. Reminiscent of Henry Hill helicopter montage.
Not bad at all - love the angry energy. It was indeed entertaining.
Most of it was on my nerve
Starting off, the cover set the stage and made me very sad, because it's very true. The whole album and its commentary is incredibly bleak and real. I'm not sure if I should dance, cry my eyes out, refuse to cry my eyes out, write a manifesto, become as cynical and disillusioned and plan to overtake the world, or become as cynical and disillusioned and fade into history like this band. Then I googled(well, perplexitied) and saw that their guitarist and apparently the creative core of the group had produced records for RHCP. This is a spectacular album in terms of political commentary. Probably I’ll not listen to this again, but I'm happy I was introduced to this!
Not too memorable
Nope
This album is trying to fool you. It sounds like it's recorded in a basement with cheap instruments. The vocals are basic. There are multiple voices recorded, but no harmonies. But this is actually a really good album. Like, a really good album. I'm honestly really caught off guard how good this is. It's not going to be for everyone, and there are some moments that aren't done well and end up kind of bad. But there's a lot of songs that are just executed so incredibly well. This album is more than worth multiple listens. Favorite Song(s): Natural's Not In It, Damaged Goods
This sucks, also hate when they add distortion but with no sustain to just sound like pure noise or something breaking. (Idk how to describe this sound)
When I first heard this at 14, I was blown away. The lyrics are so cutting, the music is so stark, it's pissed off about the system and it points out flaws. This is probably the only punk album I like.
Ужасно
I was entertained by this! But for some reason I don’t think the band had that in mind when creating it. The post punk aspects of this album felt very raw in a way that peers like The Clash, for me, never quite achieved, even on their great albums. Fun guitar hooks and punchy bass lines do a lot to distract you from the poignant lyrics, the primary star of the show here.
I've no notes—I love this band and their debut is post-punk perfection.
What a boring band name, but the music sure rocks! Must say this raw sound they produce sounds really and good for a '79 record. It feels like a predecessor to Franz Ferdinand, and sometimes Red Hot Chili Peppers as well. The guitar and bass works perfectly together and complements each other very well. The album is probably at its strongest in the first half, but I was overall impressed by how almost every song had some kind of hook to it that worked for me. This has to be a 4 star for me. Probably a slightly weaker one, as it's lacking some stronger songs, but the overall quality across all songs definitely carries it from a 3 to a 4.
The album's art seemed boring. Didn't read the band name or the description just started it up on Spotify. The first notes of "Ether" made me pay some more attention. It was not the sound I was expecting at all. By "Natural's Not in It" I was bopping a long. Great riffs, great tones on the guitars and just a great abrasive sound. I had completely forgotten about "Damaged Goods" until the opening bars. I have listened to this before! Such a good song. Great riff, great lyrics! The rest of the album kept high quality. Really enjoyed it. Just breathes with personality and punky attitude. 4 stars.
Good. Almost great but not quite.
Is always worth it.
A classic that I need to give some more attentive listens to still, to fully understand it.
a jarring yet enjoyable punk inspired album that includes odd yet catchy guitar riffs, grating lyrics, and sharp percussion in the mix. A fun album.
Really enjoyed this! Damaged Goods is a great song!
Pretty good.
Love Love Love This.
Maybe this is good for fans of post-punk, but you can see how I feel about it.
Médiocre.
fun and punky, though not entirely in my personal wheelhouse. I would probably put this on for a listen again so I will give it a soft 4.
Awful…the only positive was that I got to watch a sexy man build flat pack furniture whilst listening.
Never heard of these guys before. Not once. I loved this album. Wonder why these guys were never that big in the US?
Reminiscent of my youth. It certainly reflects a particular time.
Today I realized I've been missing out on gang of four. This record is great. I can see the lines drawn from this to various Ted Leo / Rick Froberg projects, of which I am a huge fan. Turn it up.
Shined light on a musical blind spot
Pretty good post-punk, although it did start to feel like it was dragging. Favorite: 5.45 High 3?
This is my first time listening to this full album, even though I love every Gang of Four song I've ever heard and am generally a sucker for any bass-driven punk situation. Then you swirl in some anti-capitalist theory and, well, I'm on board. Here's what wikipedia says to summarize Situationist theory, which is a central theme of this album: "Essential to situationist theory was the concept of the spectacle, a unified critique of advanced capitalism of which a primary concern was the progressively increasing tendency towards the expression and mediation of social relations through images.[2] The situationists believed that the shift from individual expression through directly lived experiences, or the first-hand fulfillment of authentic desires, to individual expression by proxy through the exchange or consumption of commodities, or passive second-hand alienation, inflicted significant and far-reaching damage to the quality of human life for both individuals and society." The 2025 version of this album would be called "Content!" THIS HEAVEN GIVES ME ME-GRAINE
Quality this!! Love the guitars and vocals, repetitive but catchy. Really good.
This album was an absolute game-changer in the punk genre, helping to spawn a style of angular, aggressive post-punk that you still hear bands today trying to emulate. Not to mention the social and political commentary in the lyrics. This album specifically changed my ideas of what punk rock could be, and I still listen to it regularly. Absolutely essential.
I thought I'd like this much more. I like the sound and production of it but not so much the composition. There's 3 great songs and a lot of meh. Worth a re-listen because I like the ideas, maybe my ear needs more training for this.
This just didn't do anything for me, but I didn't hate it. So 2 stars, I guess.
Iconic postpubk album, teenage, lusty, strong, male, english, political, jagged - once got my English teacher tonllay one of these songs in class and he was horrified. Wonderful album
I feel like these guys don’t get the same respect as the Sex Pistols or the Clash, but this album was just as influential (and in my opinion way fucking better than anything the Pistols ever did). It’s too bad they never repeated the greatness, but it’s still a punk masterpiece.
A cool and good post-punk album, very forward-thinking for the genre for a 1979 release. It's not among my very favourites though. To me it seems to be trying to go down both 'the light side and dark side' of post-punk simultaneously, and the stark, gothic sounds clash with the brighter dance-punk stuff. The very popular 'Damaged goods' suffers from this, with the sour chords and vocal lines killing the danceability for me. 'Natural's not in it' is my favourite track here.
Is there a reason why every punk (or post-punk) singer has to sound like that? Their weird enunciation and questionable ability to sing in tune makes them sound inebriated and even more British than usual. With few exceptions, this is what all of punk sounds like, and often I'd prefer having just the instrumental (or the instrumental plus a singer who's been formally trained). The songwriting isn't really there either. Sure, it breaks old conventions – which I guess is the point of punk – but those conventions exist for a reason: they sound good when followed, and bad otherwise. The main hit off this record, Damaged Goods, abandons any sort of rhyming scheme with its chorus, "Sometimes I'm thinking that I love you / But I know it's only lust", and its painfully bad repeated verse: Sweat's running down your neck / Sweat's running down your back / Heated surface in the sun / Colder surface in the night (never saw your body) / Your kiss so sweet / Your sweat so sour". (A highly upvoted reviewer said this lyric was great, but I don't see it.) I'm amazed it was the lead single. Even the bass, which is generally very good throughout the album, hardly moves from the tonic note of each chord in this song. Great bass mixing/playing in this album. It's clear, driving, and the main "hook deliverer" when you'd normally expect the lead guitar to take on that role. The key tracks (listed below) all have solid basslines that partially distract from the bad singing. The drumming and lead guitar are somewhere in the middle: not great, but not bad either. High-energy stuff. This could be good listening for a morning jog. I'm not a fan of post-punk in general. The massive popularity of punk in the 70s meant that punk had become the "establishment" genre, much like how rock'n'roll had ruled over the 50s and 60s. Post-punk is essentially an genre trying to act musically rebellious while doing exactly the opposite. 2/5 Key tracks: Natural's Not In It, Return the Gift, I Found That Essence Rare
ihan chilling
💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗 I LOVE THIS RECORD 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗
I'm not a punk I guess
Okay, couldn't get into it hugely
oh awesome, more punk music from almost half a century ago!! the sound is heavy and so are the british accents. those of you who enjoy listening to classic british rock might get a kick out of this one, with typical tracks expressing indifference, capitalism and political issues. the lyrical material, while clever sometimes often feels stereotypically punk, so there's only so much i can say about that. I'm loving the rhythm though, especially the guitars.
I love this era- so fresh and vital. I can imagine being in a smoky pub on a Friday night, pint in hand and listening to these guys whilst avoiding the crush of punks in the middle of the room.
Not my thing, too repetitive and not that interesting to me. Still ok music.
Pretty alright. I think I vibe with the politics more than the music though. If you had put this on and told me it was The Clash, I would have believed you. A few of the songs were pretty catchy.
Um punk indie em 1979? Quem diria hein?
Now that’s entertainment. Seriously, on almost all of the tracks, one of the Four was playing some rhythm that was blowing my mind. I love punk; this was punk+.
YOUR KISS SO SWEET YOUR SWEAT SO SOUR Als ik dit 6 sterren zou kunnen geven had ik er 7 gegeven.
Leuk hoor
Extreme politics meet stabby guitar riffs. Best tracks, for me, are Damaged Goods and I Found That Essence Rare.
Good post punk sound very raw but has a little polished sound
Not bad, not great.
Oh yeah!
Entertainment by Gang Of Four. It's okay kinda early punk, but for me it needs more of a bite. Although I did discover my favourite punk band (IDLES) did a cover of one of there songs which I massively prefer
This was a fun surprise. I was not familiar with this group. If you're into punk, this is going to work for you. It's everything you love about punk - all the energy and the sheer, nihilistic joy - but with the added spice of funky beats. Feels a little like proto-Red Hot Chili Peppers! 3⭐️
Some good, some a bit harsh for me
A high 4. Like nothing I’ve heard before, epic
Pretty good. I think I’ve heard a couple of these songs on compilations or cover versions.
I’ve loved this one a long long time. I read a review of it in some book quite a while back and it made me seek it out. The reviewer loved Love Like Anthrax, which I agree might be the best one, but honestly they’re all great.
I liked it OK. Maybe it’s my comparing it to all the better British punk/post-punk music we’ve listened to so far that’s not getting it that 4.
Ramonesque for several tracks, but then some heavier guitar riffs create some distance.
Instantly forgettable, not very interesting.
First time hearing of this band...
24/1001 This album has a lot of merit. The songs throughout sounds interesting and creative without blending together. It’s strongest aspect is without a doubt the riffs, which are great most tracks, especially highlighted on Natural Goods. The vocals I think are a bit hit or miss. On some songs they add character and work, while on others they just feel out of place. 4/5
Pretty good. Good enough to listen to twice
Good, solid punk album. I prejudged once I saw British post-punk that I would hate this, but pretty cool and easy listen.
Hipoteticamente se trata de um disco de punk festeiro. O instrumental parece tentar desenvolver o clima animado, mas na sequência dos vocais deixa tudo aborrecido.
After hearing this album I can hear why this punk rock/dub influenced album (along with The Specials debut record) was such a serious influence in the post punk scene of the late seventies and early eighties. All the bass playing on this album is fantastic, even if the lyrics reflect some truly daft political ideas. "Damaged Goods" was already in my library. 3 Stars for influence, bass playing, and that 1 punk standard.
Alt rock from 1978-1979 just hits harder man. This album is unbelievably good, up there with Television and Magazine. I pretty much ejoyed everything on this album. It's upbeat, hooky, rocking, and sounds about 15 years ahead of It's time. My favorites are Not Great Men, Guns Before Butter, and I Found That Essence Rare, but really this whole album is very listenable.
More forgettable punk rock
Pretty drab for what I think could have been quite a fun and energetic vibe for an album. I get the influence they had on other bands etc. but really this whole album just seemed strained and the music struggling to come out of it.
Not my favorite, some interesting stuff. I’m betting pretty innovative in ‘79, just not vibing with me. I think it’s the vocals. Loved the first songs opening and was excited for the album till the vocals came in
Love this album!
It's reminds me of The Jam's "The Entertainment", however I prefer the Jam. But otherwise okay-ish early new wave.
I first listened to this album in 2007, or thereabouts – some time in my own “art school” phase (doing cultural studies at uni, as good as the late naughties could offer me really). Alongside Wire’s Pink Flag, this record made an immediate impression, and has stayed on rotation since. (I must have listened to “Return the gift” 1000 times since then.) I tend to use these reviews drawing parallels or trying to chart the provenance of ideas; not that it matters necessarily where something came from or who used the idea next, it’s just fun. In this instance, suffice it to say this record must have inspired 90% of the music I hold dearest in some way or another. For me personally this album inspired something a bit different – a feeling I can’t entirely put words to, but maybe “community” is closest. I’m a happier person for knowing something as exciting as this album exists. I knew I’d get what I asked for.
Netter Punk Rock
Funny disc, sounds very modern.... To be punk I liked it so much...
Not for me
You can die without hearing it if you want to, I promise it's okay.
Not really my jam, good songs and stuff but a bit to raw.
Love gang of four
Just sounds like the same song is playing for 40 mins.
The sound of Gang Of Four is right up my street. Twangy p-bass, spiky guitar, and uncomplicated songs with plenty of space. But because all the tracks are like this it’s a bit dull as an album.
I think this might be one of those albums that was probably quite significant at the time, but sounds pretty unremarkable to me listening now. I'm not a massive fan of post-punk and this really didn't catch my ear or inspire me much. I just wanted to be listening to Love Bites by the Buzzcocks instead.
This album was a really pleasant surprise!! Classic, kooky, angsty punk. They get the message across without screaming lmao. I dig it.
Imagine a band that sounds like an uncoordinated shitty version of The Police crossed with The Clash. That is this band.
Sounds like dudes who were in a a punk band 15 years ago, got back together, and wanted to change their sound but don't know how to. It's a pseudo-clash style band and they're not pulling any of it off.
3-
This was a cool listen. The composition and instrumentals are great. Not all songs are equal but none are bad. I was a bit surprised it was late 70s and even more surprised it's a debut album. Solid sound and production. Worth a listen for sure. The album cover is cool.
Cool album art. Damaged Goods caught my attention. Good track. The chili peppers owe these guys. Cool bass playing. Cool melodica playing. Solid production.
I have a feeling the guy who made this book was british. I can see how theyre influential I guess? Talk singing, we like that?
Harmi kun b-puoli menee aivan kolisteluksi, a-puoli on nimittäin erittäin hyvä! Damaged goods erityisesti. Sen perusteella olis ollut 4.
He aloittavat luomalla musiikillisen ilmaisun meidän vieraantuneisuudestamme, mikä ei ole erityisen kiinnostavaa. Ennen B-puoliskoa levy alkaa toimia myös, kyllä, viihteenä - ja, niin, tuotteena. Bändi keksii todella toimivia "juttuja". Eikä tuotteistamisesta automaattisesti seuraa sanoitustenkaan negaatiota.
It's genius. It's brilliant. When I get tired of music, this is one of the albums that gives me back my taste.
Didn’t listen the whole way through, nothing really grabbed me. Reminded me of early talking heads kinda
Surprisingly I quite liked it. Is this when post punk became good? Interesting musically. I dislike the vocals. They still sing like British punk and I absolutely do not like that
A clearly very influential album, I can hear how they've impacted the sound of a lot of the current bands I like. I recognised Damaged Goods, to realise I had previously listened to IDLES cover. Standout Tracks: - Natural's Not in It - Damaged Goods - Return the Gift - At Home He's a Tourist
Jagged in every sense of the word. A general sense of unsease permeates the whole work, but with pop overtones. Hard for the mind to bridge the gap but it feels good to try. No sugarcoating the hard side of love. Giitar, drum, and bass work spawned a thousand bands. In 1979, this was pretty damn amazing.
ether er frábært. annað mjög gott. 4,5.
Great album. It’s a thread in a lot of music that followed.
Plus pop que je ne m'y attendais dans ses influences, aussi dansant que frondeur.
I discovered this album a few years ago, and I've listened to it a ton since then. This band is everything that RHCP could have been, and they did it a generation earlier. The album is a bit uneven, as the first half is fucking amazing, while the second half just feels like it's kinda missing something. It's not bad by any means, just not the complete murderer's row of bangers that make up the first 6 or songs. 4/5
Not really sure. On the one side ok, nice, good 80s music. On the other side a bit boring, predictable.
Punk at a high level
First album in a long time that made me wanna dance with it.
To quote Mr Horse. "No sir, I don't like it."
Fucking YES. can't fathom how i've not heard this before, but this is exactly why i started this nonsense 632 albums ago.
12/4/24. Very solid punk rock. Didn't realize this album was so influential by many artists I enjoy, but I definitely hear elements from this record in later music. Especially the bass parts!
Really solid album, clearly influential post-punk, and raw catchy tracks throughout m. Definitely will revisit
Rating: 8/10 1 - Damaged Goods
Overall: 10/10 An album so loved that I avoided it in fear that it could never live up to the high expectations that it's reputation instilled in me. I'm such an idiot cause oh my god this is so so so so good. I wish I was smart enough to decipher these lyrics but I can tell they're incredibly political. The guitar work is disjointed in a way that adds to the music and that bass is gorgeous. This is gonna be a favourite of mine for a long time. Fav Song: Damaged Goods Least Fav Song: Return the Gift
two post punk albums in a row is pretty rough (the Fall before this one...) for someone who really likes melody. i can see how this band inspired 90s bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers with funky irreverence.
Albumi #119, 29.11.2024 Leedsiläisen Gang of Fourin debyyttialbumi ilmestyi vuonna 1979.
Really good album. Groovy bass and short and punchy songs.
Very solid imo but nothing too special. It's very meat and potatoes, but I think Gang of Four lack the obnoxiousness of the Sex Pistols. They're obviously very influential and there's some really groovy and bouncy tunes on this that are packed with energy. Best Track: Damaged Goods Worst Track: Not Great Man
Best Song: At Home he's a Tourist Worst Song: Love Like Anthrax
This album is about as close to punk as post punk can get, while still getting away with being called post punk. And I feel like that's honestly this album's biggest weakness. The whole idea of post punk is to take punk's raw aggression, and channel that anger into something more melodic and emotional. But this album blurs the lines between the 2 genres so much, and you're left with something that doesn't have the rawness and grit of punk, but also lacks the more melodic beauty of post punk.
Influential, yes. Need to listen to? Probably not.
Post punk simplicity, bordering on straight up minimalist funk, with super cutting lyrics. This was just what the world needed when this came out. That feeling hasn't changed in me, though I have changed drastically in that time.
It’s pretty good, but I expected to like it more than I did. It’s interesting and I’m sure sounded innovative at the time, but I think an album like Wire’s Pink Flag, released two years earlier, sounds just as innovative and has aged better. Maybe I need more listens!
post punk classic real good
Not bad. Until I looked at the release date, I thought this album was from the 80s. While that is an impressive feat, it is not a very memorable album.
Good stuff, but not good enough. Seems like The Jam, Lite.
Not sure, there’s lots of long-winded reviews of this, and mostly giving 5 stars….I don’t it get myself. I may dead inside.
First track i thought I'd hate this, but turns out I actually know some of the songs. Not bad. Enjoyed it
- Was about to write something about how I have heard something like this before but realized this was released in 1979 saur. Have to agree that it was probably a pretty trailblazing piece of work at the time. Not sure if it's entirely my speed in its entirety, but chunks of it I really really enjoy. - at home he's a tourist is fantastic - overall enjoyed one or two tracks off this but I don't think I will be returning to it anytime soon
Natural's Not In It Damaged Goods I Found That Essence Rare At Home He's a Tourist (Love Like) Anthrax
Stars of Four
edited april 17, 2025 to change the rating to five stars!! this is one of my favourite albums that this project has introduced to me. the tracklist is full of gritty, anthemic bangers. nicotine really goes to my head!!
还行……？没什么感觉，平滑地从我的脑子经过。
Not really my thing. It was ok
When this started I expected to think by the end "ok that was neat, onto the next!" but something about this really got its hooks in me. The bass, the repetition, the stabbing guitars, the neat disorganisation of it all... before I know it I'm five listens in. Very happy with this one!
Wouldn't mind if it came up but wouldn't necessarily go and decide to listen to it.
Un par de canciones padres pero no, el punk, neopunk o lo que sea no es lo mío.
Good musicianship. Not sure I liked the political commentary, and it just didn't do much for me. Three stars.
1. Couldn't listen to this all the way through 2. This one either 3. Nope 4. Hey! Not bad! Maybe this album is getting better? 5. Nope 6. Listenable, but didn't enjoy 7. Meh 8. This guy might be restless? Skipped a little more than halfway through 9. Tedious. It's a good thing punk songs are so short 10. Sigh... 11. OK, I guess? 12. No thanks. Fortunately, this album is over
Great band. Need to listen to more
This is pretty cool. I really enjoy these post punk albums. The bass on here is great and drives the melody forward. But I’m not completely won over compared to for example Joy Division, Television, or Magazine. I don’t really know what it is - but I am still really happy that I was introduced to this, and I am going to listen many more times, that’s for sure
Good baselines
50 minutes that felt like 150
Never listened to this album before and had heard of Gang of Four, but I didn't know much about them. I could listen to this album on repeat and never get bored, what an album and I can't wait to listen to more of Gang of Four now! It's a masterpiece and you can hear its influence on so many bands and so many types of rock and indie music!
Looks like I have been sleeping on this band, but no more. Loved this. A great example of how good, plain fun can still be interesting and artful. Crank it up and have a dance party while observing the darkness of the world!
Actually pretty good for post-punk nonsense. 3.0
A fine album for a Saturday afternoon.
I don’t believe that unbiased opinions exist. I think that the closest to unbiased that any of us can get is to try to be aware of our biases and be honest about them. So when I tell you that this album is exactly my shit and I adore it, I am not saying that it will be exactly your shit or that you should adore it. I’m just telling you that years before I was born, some working-class pinko punks in Leeds made an album for me and I love it very much.
I can see why these guys never took off
God knows how many times i've listened to this album, already a fav for me especially given my extreme love for the post-punk era it comes from. Biting lyrics full of wit and humour, edgy guitar and bass lines, almost mechanic drumming. One of the top albums when it comes to this style.
More and more I’m realising that I just hate Punk. It’s not really offensive or anything, I just find it so incredibly bland. There’s nothing interesting to listen to here.
This was big on campus when I was a college freshman. Great fresh, stark, punk sound. They seem to be leaning into the Devo thing (without the humor), particularly in the vocals. Love the bass driving a lot of their sound. I particularly love I Found that Essence Rare and Damaged Goods
Es un muy buen disco, saqué varios temas. Es una onda Ramones Ska o the clash adormecido. Se vuelve un poco monótono pasando la mitad.
More fun to listen to than I expected, as I found the cover art quite irritating.
кек, я в своем сознании отношу это просто к панку, с такими молодыми пьяными ребятами из английского паба мне такое сложно слушать, а каких-то бенгеров я для себя не услышала. Ну, задорно
No prior familiarity with Gang of Four. I felt fairly ambivalent towards this one. I'm giving it a 3 but it's a weak 3. Between Entertainment! and MC5's Kick Out the Jams, I'm starting to think maybe the early era of punk/punk-adjacent music isn't my favorite.
Pretty basic and Pretty boring. Still really not my style of music. There were a few I enjoyed on here but overall it didn't click with me. Favorites were Contract and Damaged Goods
I liked this quite a bit. The songs all have momentum. The bass is really good throughout and the lyrics carry hefty political weight while being in songs you could dance to. They should make a genre like that. They could call it “dance punk”. I think that would be really neat.
Fun, I like the simple and punchy bass lines. They feel really good in the mix.
Funny how many big rock bands in the 21st century just sounds like a more vanilla version of this. While it is not something I drift towards, I appreciate the inventiveness of this.
I can see its influence on rock music but I still found most of the songs on the album uninteresting but occasionally a good song would come on. Not one to come back to.
Eh this didn't do it for me. First time listening was intriguing, and I liked it for the most part, but then on listening to it a second time I really wasn't fussed about this album. I liked Ether and Damaged Goods, but other than that the rest of the album was almost a bit boring.
Finally some good original music. Gang of Four is so cool!!! Their bass game is strong and I’m loving how different they were in 1979. They talk about so many things but still stay musically relevant. I’m definitely going to listen again. Love love love.
Enjoyable enough. Don’t think I’d actively seek it out to listen to again.
Really strong record, still holds up today, great beats and pertinent lyrics.
Oh fuck yes! So fun and interesting and influential. It’s still pretty fabulous. 5/5
This was a really good post punk album. Enjoyed my time. Some bangers too that I added to my playlist
I had "Found That Essence Rare" as one of my six MP3s in 2001, so I've heard it a lot, but never the whole album. It's all good!
Je m’attendais à plus de criage, je m’en sort seulement avec une légère migraine
Empty, tinny... Maybe it's a lyrics thing.
I was surprised this was from 1979, but a solid album. Great sound and great energy. They remind a little bit of Wire. Recommend you check those guys out too. There was a lot to like about this album. Never got stale and pretty solid all the way through. Favorites include Ether, Damaged Goods and I Found That Essence Rare. I thought the very beginning of Glass sounded like Devo's Uncontrollable Urge (Ridiculousness). While I thought this was a good listen, my Spotify immediately kicked into The Stooges, Fugazi and Wire to name a couple. Bonus! A nice change of pace from recent albums and enjoyed my listens. 4
Absolutely stunned by this one. When I read Post-Punk I get a Franky Teardrop flashabck and my stomach drops. It's definitely Post-Punk but it's weird because this was perfectly listenable. I think it's still tinnier and shriller than I'd prefer but when it finds it's more pop-oriented moments it's really well done. 3
4 Damaged Goods is an all-time classic that I’ve had saved on Spotify for some time now, but I actually didn’t care for the rest of this album the first time I heard it all the way through, probably several years ago now. Punk meets funk? What the hell is that? It feels like the kind of thing the Talking Heads capitalized on, a group that I can't stand. Well, my taste has clearly evolved because I quite enjoyed my time with it here. The bass-forward sound of this album feels pretty unique, making it stand apart from other punk releases from this era (though I definitely hear some Wire in there), while also still managing to feel just as gritty and angry as some of the heaviest offerings of the genre. I absolutely loved the opener, Ether, in particular, which in many ways I feel like is probably the best exemplification of the groovy bass beat and raw energy mix that the album does so well. Every track here is really solid though, but Damaged Goods is still far and away the best, both in a musical and lyrical sense - in particular, I’ve always loved the line: “Your kiss so sweet Your sweat so sour Sometimes I'm thinking that I love you But I know it's only lust” I think it’s commentary on capitalization and consumerism, but it works for me on a couple levels. As a whole, I will say I’m not entirely sure what exactly many of these songs are referring to topically given the largely metaphorical nature of each, but based off the album cover (which is awesome btw), I think they largely boil down to themes of exploitation for personal gain - which provides a pissed off energy that I can definitely rally behind. Overall, really solid punk album, both in sound and spirit. I can definitely see how this would be influential on post-punk, though I think this may be one of those cases where the group who did it first were among the best to ever do it.
really cool album
Meh
Punky rock
entertaining album
This was ok but got annoying very quickly
Typically post punk has been one of my least favorite genres. This one definitely exceeded my expectations and I would listen to it again. I’d give it a 3.5 if I could.
This was fun, new listen for me. Felt like newer than 1979 and could have been an opening band for the Kinks and would have been a killer double bill. Loved the raw guitar sound and the silly lyrics. Not perfect l, but I can see how this was popular when it came out.
Completely new to me but it sounds very familiar. I was surprised to learn it’s from 79, could have been an early 90’s album. Just ok, but I felt the same way when Blink 182 arrived and they grew on me. This album needs more than one listen.
Nothing too exciting but seemed decent to me
if stress was an album and not a feeling
I like this record. Production is great. Sounds newer than it is. They sound like a funky version of Talking Heads or Minutemen. Funky and punky. Usually I don't like that combination, but they do it well. Songs are each quite monotonous, but they are different enough. Favorite song: Love Like Anthrax
New band for me. Impressed out of the gate.
Gang of Four is a band that I knew I needed to listen to but never came around to it for some reason. Listening to Entertainment! now I can see why it makes sense that many of the musicians I admire mention this band as an influence. Damage Goods, I Found that Essence Rare, Love Like Anthrax, and 5:45 were favorites. This is more like a 3.5 for me, but, like, a really good 3.5.
Enjoyable bit of proto-punk. Managed to remain interesting throughout, non abrasive vocals whilst retaining that punkish sneer, simple but effective guitar parts. 3.5*
The good kind of weird. Probably a 4.5, but I’m feeling generous.
Really amazing post punk. Never knew I liked this before I got into this . Damaged goods,not great men,at home he’s a tourist
This is BY FAR, the best album I've never heard of (at least so far). The post-punk hits hard, and it was SOOO ahead of it's time. On top of it, the album doesn't feel cheesy or overdone like a lot of other punk albums. Best Songs: Natural's Not In It, Damaged Goods, Guns Before Butter, I Found That Essence Rare, At Home He's A Tourist, Love Like Anthrax Worst Songs: NA
There are some older punk albums that resonate with me, some that sound like a bag of balls, and some where I land quite indifferent. The odd thing is that I’m not actually sure what causes this difference of opinion. Today’s album landed in the third category for me. It was a pleasant listen but didn’t exactly hook me in much. It felt raw which is always nice, but it didn’t leave me feeling excited. I’m glad I listened to this, but I doubt I’ll return for more.
It might be a little _too_ minimalist for me, but I'd say it's held up decently well and has its moments. I can certainly hear the influence on later post-punk bands.
good walking music!! i enjoyed this
Cool stuff. Not much to add!
Great record! Listened to this one 100's of times in college. Some of the best punk bass playing ever!
Hadn’t heard this album in a long time and remember liking some of the songs.
I don’t hate it
Post-punk at its earliest and finest! So minimalistic so energetic so good. If you like this, leapfrog to 1997’s “Dig Me Out” by Sleater-Kinney.
I was very interested in the band. The genre appealed to me. I liked the cover. I also liked the first track. It may be that the music on the album is quite exciting. It got on my nerves towards the end of the album. I probably won't listen to it again. 2/5
We’re (I’m) around 215 albums into this list and the realization is coming over me that I’ll be getting real tired of the inclusion of albums like this - it’s the new random psychedelic rock album inclusion. I don’t care if these guys influenced bigger bands, the album just passes right by
It's been a while on this list, but at last a decent album I'd not listended to before
Tight and vivid. Did not listen much to the lyrics but agree with the tendency...
Gang of Four have always been one of my favorite post-punk bands. I don't need to write about the politics expressed in excellent lyrics, angular guitar or jarring but funky rhythms of their initial output. Plenty of ink, both in digital and on paper, has been spilled on all of that. Rather, I want to note that my first and longest engagement with Gang of Four was through the collection "A Brief History of the Twentieth Century". I've written about the way that collections tend to paper over the valleys and missteps of a band such that you can have a very different frame to hang on the picture of them. I mix my metaphors daily as well you might notice. But the real thing to notice is just how much of that collection comes from entertainment! This album's dips in quality are minor at best and better seen as ramps from which they launch into incredible songs that achieve great heights. I am all in on this record, of course.
A very early post-punk album that is actually tolerable thanks to the sonic variety.
More like gang of bore
I don't like punk... I like the odd song but I can't dig a whole album of it!
Esta muy bueno, great production, amazing perfromances. 9.5/10
La última canción lo subió a 9/10
Its fine, I would rather listen to DEVO.
- Kein Song jemals gehört, genauso wenig wie den Namen der Band oder des Albums - stramm, geht nach vor, ist aber etwas dünn - Kompositorisch warte ich auch ständig auf Struktur. kann aber auch mein Problem sein. -Plätscherte so vor sich hin* 3/5
Who came first, Gang of Four or A Certain Ratio?
I don't think I like punk very much. I can see that a lot of people liked this album quite a lot and heard things I personally could not tease out of it and I am happy for them.
this was a pretty good album, basically like if the clash were super weird. i had heard of this band before but never listened to their music. i listened to the album twice but I'm sure I missed a ton of nuance. i definitely appreciate folks with a punk mindset making socially conscious music when it's not the most popular or profitable thing to do. favorites: ether, natural's not in it, damaged goods, I found that essence rare, at home he's a tourist, 5.45
Really
Your favorite band's favorite band.
I can hear Gang Of Four's influence on a lot of later groups I like... But for me that's all they sound like. Influence that later groups did better. Just bored me
Alright I suppose
pretty forgettable
Quite a raw album. Not on the same punk level as the pistols or clash mind you. Some decent rhythms though. I can see how some british bands of the noughties like franz ferdinand, futureheads etc could be inspired by something like this. Damaged goods is absolute tune. Great song. Couple of other decent ones like naturals not in it and not great man. Overall, one great song and the rest of the album was OK or not great. I can definitely feel the inspiration in bands i grew up with as a late teenager.
This feels before it’s time.
punky sound with nice guitars
Quite funky and original, but in a way where I don't know if I'd want to listen to it again
You think they’ve ever heard Talking Heads? I don’t like how repetitive and borderline pretentious the lyrics are, but the writing is solid and feels original. The vocals aren’t the most unique. It jumps from disingenuous to cheeky. Production and instrumentation are fantastic, though. I enjoyed parts of some songs, but would not listen to this again. 3/5
just too minimal rock for me
Droning, monotonous with a lot of enthusiasm on the artists Side but not mine apparently makes this post punk
A surprising find and cautious 4
Damaged Goods is a killer track. Bass sound on the album is great all the way through. Tough rate though. If its revisitable. I think there are other British punk bands I would like to listen to more.
Has a good funky groove but it’s all very samey
Edgy British boys playing the worst sounding guitars I've ever heard on a professionally produced album. Drumming was nothing special. The bass was actually good in spots. Vocals were very British and spoken not sung, from a discontented point of view, repeating the same lines over and over. No thanks, I'll take The Clash or even Sex Pistols over this any time.
Good stuff. Really solid songs throughout. I can see how they were a big influence, bringing something different to the table.
Fast tempo rock!
Not terrible. Parts of it were kind of annoying, but some was actually pretty decent. I wouldn't revisit all of it, but some songs are worth listening to again. 3/5
Doesn't help that I have a headache right now, but this sounds like someone using an angle grinder on concrete.
Never heard of them before this, not exactly sure how I feel about this album to be completely honest, but one thing’s for sure, it definitely packs a punch
Learning that I like punk, or, at least postpunk, more than I thought I did.
It started out interesting - good bass lines- but grew tiresome, until the last song.
2.5* and didn't get rounded up.
Cool album
Day169 - what a great album i didn’t know anything about gang of four previously and i really enjoyed it
Never heard of this band before so again I had no expectations and no idea of what to expect. Loved it, great punk music. very funky. Great sound and punchy lyrics. I shall be exploring their history!! This is a great album, im giving it a 4! Favourite song: Return the gift and guns before butter. Least favourite: Love like anthrax. Album artwork: Great album cover
One of the quintessential post-punk albums, and a great work all around. Several bangers and no filler. Swinging bass, angular guitars, and socially conscious lyrics. No complaints.
Avant guard. Feels modern and yet, obviously, it's not. Very post-punk feeling. Damaged Goods 10/10
i thought this was pretty good. i already listened to this prior to the generator. i can hear the influence this had on a lot of other things like franz ferdinands take me out. the bass tone throughout the album is very pleasing to the ears as well. i dont really have much else to say. 4 personal favs: ether, naturals not in it, damaged goods
Bitchin. Hell yeah.
Any album opening with this thick of meaty bass has strong potential. Hopefully something to elevate from this rut of mediocrity as of late. Really digging the groove on Ether -- guitar tone reminds me a lot of Minutemen, but something about the rest makes me think Talking Heads. Damaged Goods is another high point on here so far. I'm a sucker for dynamic bass and some scratchy guitar. Love Like Anthrax is a hell of a closer. The layered vocals are a trip (especially when the coincide) with a simple, yet wonderful bass groove to propel this thing forward. Man, we need more albums like this in this list. I feel like I've heard of Gang of Four before, but this is my first time listening to them. Certainly will not be my last. This album is fantastic with perfectly balanced production; it is at once tight and rough. Feels very similar in a lot of ways to Double Nickels on the Dime. Easy 5 / 5 for me. Going right back in for another listen.
2.5 stars. Oaky album.
Sure. One of the better punk/post-punk albums thus far.
Very sloppy instrumentals that was probably done on purpose that I did not enjoy at all. Singers were also not my favorite. Another punk album, another 2 star
This is some punk I can fuck with. Instrumentals are fantastic with the bass standing out to me. Just a weirdly good album. Hearing some random LCD in At Home He's a Tourist. Some good chop.
Not really my style tbh. I should probably write more about it, but this album just didn't speak to me. Next!
A defining record of my high school years. Raw British post-punk with a leftist critique of society. Songs that I love: Ether Natural’s Not in It Damaged Goods Glass
Very raw, very punchy. If it weren’t for the anti-establishment lyrics, I’d given a 2. Closer to a 2.5.
Decent, albeit somewhat underwhelming album. Feels like The Subways got really high, and forced the Ramones at gunpoint to cover their songs. I can *definitely* understand why they were so influential with such a heavy style in the 70s/80s (and I know it's unfair to compare them to the bands who built their music on this influence), but I wasn't quite as blown away as I expected to be based on the bands they've influenced.
Punk but with better bass. I liked the songs that had a hard bass line, but a lot of the songs were the whiny, repetitive punk voices. Not my fave. Listen again: no Purchase for my collection: no Favourite Song: love like anthrax
Had a lot of fun with this one
So tired of this very tame terrible brit punk/pop
Fudge yeah!
Yesssss
Not inspiring. Borderline 2
I've consistently struggled with albums like this. I'm sure they are legendary and formative, and I'm sure that every single band on the THPS soundtrack owned their tapes. I have a hard time listening to it today in 2024 because it seems like very stripped down simple music with some guys yelling. There isn't a lot for me here, but I'm sure I owe them a thank you for inspiring bands I do like. 4/10
I can see this as influencing lots of 80s artists. Underground and hipsterish before hipster was even a thing. I love the sound of the electric guitar but this was so screechy and off key it got annoying sometimes. I’m giving it a three just because it must have been unique at the time.
Ok, didn’t massively stand out
I feel bad about the fact that I never heard about this band, then again, late '70s I was still young and listening to an eclectic mix of Brian Ferry, Stevie Wonder, Queen, ABBA and Chicago... oh, and the Bee Gees. I can recall the Boomtown Rats though. But only 1 tune. I've listened 2 times to the record, which is part of my 1001 album journey, and I know I will be listening to it several times more. I hear punk, I hear rock, I hear funk, I hear SKA, and I'm sure if I keep listening I will hear more, and that is the sign of a great album. Great bass. Great guitar. Great lyrics. Favorite song, at the moment, Anthrax
An album unlike any other new wave album . The guitar work is beautiful yet aggressive cutting into the songs like a jagged knife. The themes of middle class bourgeois excess and power are smart, funny any as jagged as the guitars.
OK album but loving production ruins it. Some notable songs Damaged goosd and 5.45
edgy. brilliant. ground breaking.
Old school, scaled back, indie rock. I like it, but don't love it
Good songs, good energy on this one.
That’s pretty in your face, sonically. It was interesting
I had so much fun with this one! I can’t believe I hadn’t heard of GO4 before. Funky, playful poppy punk that has so many elements I enjoy from other artists (dissonant bass and guitar riffs repeated in a way that makes them melodic, upbeat boppy drums, BRI’ISH YELLIN’).
shouty british vocals, a bass player giving it all he's got, and a machine behind the drum kit. sounds like post punk to me. what really differentiates this from the icy Joy Division that all albums of this genre inevitably must be compared to is the warmth. reds and oranges on the album art clue the listener in that Entertainment! will come with some heat. the mix is often spacious with just the bass, drums, and one guitar playing, allowing the aggressive, punk guitar riffs to carry the albums intensity with its vocals. this honestly has a lot more in common with This Heat (my favorite band of the genre) than it does with Joy Division, just far more radio friendly than the majority of This Heat. I can even hear on tracks like I Found That Essence Rare where R.E.M. would get some of their early guitar sound from (this also has to be the album modern post-punk/PPR are really trying to recreate, so much of this sound is in The Strokes or Parquet Courts). overall, loved the energy of Entertainment! and it's surprisingly competent vocal melodies (Glass especially sounds fantastic). one of the fastest 40 minutes i've ever spent, this is the most danceable post-punks ever sounded to me.
3.5
Certainly share their politics, percussion and guitar work is solid, but good lord the vocal work is unbearable. Ever heard of varying your tone? The instrumentals have enough merit that I can’t fairly give this a 1, but I really fucking want to. Listened to: walking around the F1 track in Montreal. Favorite track: Love Like Anthrax
Managed to listen to three quarters of the album. I found it quite samey after a time and then got bored with it. Don’t think I’d bother looking for them again so.........a probably harsh 2*
Yep, like it. Bit samey after a bit but some really good songs in there.
One of my faves. I love a man in uniform.
this was actually pretty fun
Somewhat tolerable for a post punk album. The real stars here are the bass and drums; growling bass lines and some tight technical drum work that’s somewhat of a precursor to the Red Hot chili peppers. Vocals are entirely forgettable, monotonous, British drowning that adds nothing. Guitar work is standard, fuzzy punk, very little flavor or skill, just kind of existing to make the music sound angrier. I feel like there could be a pretty cool alt funk record in here if you deleted everything except for the rhythm section, but unfortunately, we got a mediocre punk record instead.
Natural’s Not In It // 5.45 // 3.5/5
It's decent but I am very weary of this sound being nearly halfway through this list.
I like their politics but I wasn't impressed with them musically back in the day and that hasn't changed.