Parallel Lines

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England and Norway had selfishly decided to take my Saturday night into extra time, so Sunday morning found me sitting in bed with a slight football hangover, a bottle of Coke left over from Monday’s Andy’s Man Club celebration and what turned out to be the perfect antidote. Some albums comfort you. Some wake you up. Parallel Lines somehow manages both. I was fourteen again within about thirty seconds. I’ve loved this record for nearly half a century. I played my cassette until the ferrous oxide gave up and decided to eat a bike. This morning reminded me why. One of the lazy stories about Parallel Lines is that Mike Chapman made Blondie commercial. I don’t think that’s what happened at all. He turned them from a disorganised sneer into a global menace. The wit, the omnivorous musical taste, the downtown cool and Debbie Harry’s charisma were already there. Chapman simply put the band through boot camp. Every guitar part now has purpose. Every harmony lands together. Every arrangement is edited to within an inch of its life. The songs become models of discipline. Yet somehow none of that discipline comes at the expense of fun. Chris Stein’s guitar playing struck me all over again. It’s George Harrison’s philosophy: find the line that works and stop. “Picture This” contains one of those solos that has lived in my head for decades because it isn’t a solo at all. It’s another tune. Clem Burke remains one of rock’s great joys. I’ve seen Blondie live twice, and you learn far more about drummers by watching than listening. Burke looks permanently on the verge of glorious collapse, all Keith Moon exuberance, but underneath it sits Ringo Starr’s judgement. His fills are exuberant without ever derailing the song. “Will Anything Happen?” is pure propulsion. Watching him at work, you realise the engine room of Blondie isn’t merely keeping time. It’s generating excitement. Debbie Harry, meanwhile, reminded me why I’ve always thought of her as a wildly intelligent vocalist. She doesn’t simply sing songs; she inhabits them. Every track is another character. One moment she has the inscrutable shimmer of Françoise Hardy on “Sunday Girl”, the next the lip curl is back for “Just Go Away”. She always seems to know exactly what emotional temperature the song requires. What also struck me was how deeply rooted this album is in pop history without ever sounding nostalgic. “Hanging on the Telephone” has a distinctly British ring. “Pretty Baby” feels like Lou Reed had wandered into the Brill Building. “Sunday Girl” is everything I love about yé-yé, but by New Yorkers. Then they relocate Buddy Holly to CBGB as though it’s the most natural thing in the world. Cheap Trick would have killed for “I’m Gonna Love You Too”. And then there’s “Heart of Glass”. I’ve been gleefully pointing this out to people since I was fourteen. After all that immaculate shimmer, the locked groove and the CR-78 pulse, Blondie casually throw in bars of 7/4. Nobody notices. Or rather, everyone notices that something exciting just happened without realising why. That’s the genius of Parallel Lines. Its eccentricity hides in plain sight. Why shouldn’t we be smuggling 7/4 into Studio 54? The album also has a wonderful sense of humour. After forty minutes of demonstrating astonishing compositional discipline, it suddenly decides to have a laugh. The “backing vocals” on “Just Go Away” aren’t harmonies at all. They’re joyous pub rabble. It sounds like a band that’s spent an entire album proving how clever it is finally deciding to stop being clever for twenty seconds and simply enjoy itself. That’s probably what makes Parallel Lines feel so alive nearly fifty years on. It’s an album made by musicians of frightening ability who never once forgot that pop music is supposed to be exhilarating

It was definitely a breath of fresh air, it was upbeat and jaunty

This was actually fun to listen. Some songs you recognise and the rest has a cheerful vibe

Stellar LP. After 2 so-so albums, they hit paydirt here. Clem Burke's drumming was Blondie's secret weapon imo.

If I could give this more stars, I would.

Prrrrfect record!

Producer Mike Chapman joins the party and becomes Blondie’s George Martin. Blondie’s best album.

LOS OG DE ONE WAY OR ANOTHER Y HEART OF GLASS

Honestly this isn't exactly my genre but there are just too many sing along bangers for this not to be a 5. Super catchy fun album, one of my favorites so far. Low 5

It’s quite impressive to have four big culturally-penetrating songs which all sound at least a bit different (very different in the case of Sunday Girl and Heart of Glass), and yet also the other eight songs are also bangers. A perfect slice of pop-leaning early new wave wearing a bunch of different influences on the sleeve while making something distinctly Blondie (I would never have guessed there were covers here), band sounds great, Debbie Harry sounds great of course. Just always nice to have an excuse to pull it out and listen and pass a snappy 40 minutes.

Stunned by how much I liked this. Loved it from front to back. Such laser-focused intensity from the whole band through different styles, tempos, and moods. Debbie Harry and dem boys knocked it out of the park.

Is "Parallel Lines" the perfect pop/rock album? There are no poor choices on this record, with the quality remaining consistently high from start to finish. The album is diverse, successfully navigating pop, power pop, driving rock, and electronic disco across its 12 tracks. It perfectly balances commercial accessibility against the sharp New York edge of the band's earlier work, all supported by immaculate production and mixing. The cover art is a triumph of design. Shot by photographer Edo Bertoglio and conceived by manager Peter Leeds, the final result caused considerable controversy within the band. The musicians famously disliked the photo choice, feeling it pushed Debbie Harry too far into the spotlight at the expense of the rest of the group. Regardless of their internal friction, it remains a truly iconic piece of album art. Whether the band liked it or not - and one suspects Chris Stein knew this only too well - Debbie Harry was the star. Aside from being stunningly beautiful, she wrote brilliant pop lyrics, but her vocal melodies are the true standout. Harry was incredibly adept at working within her natural range, using character, timing, and phrasing to elevate a melody rather than relying on vocal gymnastics. What makes her performance on Parallel Lines work so well is this sheer versatility, shifting effortlessly between completely different vocal personas depending on the track: - Tough and urgent on 'Hanging on the Telephone' and 'One Way or Another'. - The sweet sixties starlet on 'Sunday Girl' and 'Pretty Baby', where she adopts a light, airy, melodic style that nods to the girl groups she grew up listening to. - The detached diva on 'Heart of Glass', where her vocals become smooth, ethereal, and almost robotic, floating perfectly above the precise electronic beat. Instead of trying to overpower the music, she treats her voice like another instrument in the arrangement. It is this ability to act through her singing - switching from cool and aloof to fierce and intense - that gives the album so much of its innate appeal. Remarkably, none of this has dated, which is astonishing for a record that is now nearly fifty years old. I opened this review by asking if "Parallel Lines" is the perfect pop/rock album. Whilst it might not be absolutely perfect, it comes incredibly close. Its standout moments are exceptional, and the remaining tracks never drop below a four-star standard. Five stars. Side one 1 "Hanging on the Telephone" (5/5) 2 "One Way or Another" (5/5) 3 "Picture This" (5/5) 4 "Fade Away and Radiate" (4/5) 5 "Pretty Baby" (4/5) 6 "I Know but I Don't Know" (4/5) Side two 7 "11:59" (4/5) 8 "Will Anything Happen?" (4/5) 9 "Sunday Girl" (5/5) 10 "Heart of Glass" (5/5) 11 "I'm Gonna Love You Too" (5/5) 12 "Just Go Away" (4/5) Total - 54 Average - 4.5 365/1001 193/365 albums reviewed were new to me.

Classic

I didn't realize how many great Blondie songs were on a single album. The whole album was a blast to listen to.

I listened to this album while vacuuming and it’s among the most fun I’ve ever had while vacuuming. I kept getting distracted and dancing to the music while I just vacuumed the same spot over and over. This album is so consistent it sounds like it could’ve been a greatest hits album.

Love it!

This was released the day after my tenth birthday and it’s the first lp I bought. Therefore on playing it again it’s almost impossible to approach it with a fresh mind. Except, I realise that I now dress like a fatter version of the boys on the cover.

Tres bon! Un seul mot BLONDIE

Owned. A masterpiece of genre blending perfection

Nur Liebe 💋🖐🏻

Great and classic album. This is Blondie very near to their peak and they had other really good albums, but nothing they had put out compares to Parallel Lines. Blondie is one of the rare bands whose music is best represented by an album rather than their greatest hits. The greatest hits are excellent, but I believe Parallel Lines may better represent who they are as a band. I'm not sure if there is a bad or skippable track on here. I love this one.

Fantastic stuff. Always been wanting to check more of their stuff out. Of course the hits are great. But I loved the whole thing.

Not heard this all the way through for so long . . . As a father to two young girls, I'm going to get a vinyl copy of this for them - such an amazing role model in general and fantastic sinnger to emulate Blondie were certainly one of the pioneering sounds of the late 70's and 80's I am in agreement - thisis a must-listen album!

Parallel Lines • Sos Music

As is protocol, I will now talk about how I saw Blondie in concert in 2017. I made the trip across the border to Art Park in Lewiston, NY. I loved her raunchy, badass older lady persona. This album is great. I never realized how much 1950s sock hop and 1960s vibes it has. Plus the album cover is so cool.

so much lust, debbie surrounded by her brothers mixing a good soup

Some great songs, but it feels like it's one of two short of being one of the all time greats, particularly given a couple of tracks that feel like filler. Hanging on the Telephone is one is my all time favorites though

There are records that almost seem impossible to match and I think this is one of them.

Great poppy, catchy songs. Some I'd never heard before but added to my Liked Songs

An absolute all-time banger. I have listened to this so many times and feel like I will continue to my entire life. Debbie Harry is just the coolest, she always was and always will be! It's just so much ridiculous fun

SIX STARS! This album is just banger after banger after banger after banger. It's actually crazy how many amazing pop songs Blondie were just releasing one after the other. One of the best albums ever no notes

Man this album is crazy good. I can concede I’ve always had a crush on Debbie Harry, so maybe I’m biased but I adore Blondie. They are so synonymous with hit pop songs that people forget that they are technically a punk band. And this album is the perfect blend of Blondie’s two identities. There’s some great punk songs while also having some of their biggest hits. In fact I’d probably guess this is their most successful album beaded solely off what tracks are on the album and nothing else. Seriously if you are gunna give Blondie a chance, this is a great starting point. Maybe if ur more punk leaning than pop, I might recommend the two albums that came before this one, but despite this album being a huge success for them because of the pop songs, there’s still a good amount of punk influence on this album as well. Seriously I’d totally go to bat for this album any day of the week.

Previously known. Total lovefest.

I did not expect to like this as much as I did. I'm not sure whatever genre this is but I want more of it

Almost magical at points. Not sure I love the new remaster, the vocals were very piercing at points. But my god, what a strong album.

Awesome

Excellence. I love women.

Heart of Glass and One Way or Another make this 5 stars with nothing else

All the songs are great. It sounds like a best of album

A fantastic New Wave/Pop album with some great songs many released as singles. Debbie is a wonderful singer and the band is very tight. One of my favorite albums from this era.

Still outstanding

It’s okay, some good songs in the beginning. Mid overall

another one of the best albums ever. the classic rock radio staples on here are great, but there is so much more. "fade away and radiate" has a dark, gary numan/tubeway army feel to it that is just infectious. "i know but i don't know" has some mild prog rock and some strong funk feels. "sunday girl" sounds like VU/early nyc punk take on 50s pop. so, the ramones, i guess, but not really. blondie just sounds like blondie

Classic album from 1978, I was into Blondie A bit, but not a massive fan, I’ve only recently bought their 1st album, but obviously this is a classic album, with so ,many great songs, difficult not to give it a maximum

One of the easiest 5’s I’ve given so far. Debbie is sounding fire on every song. Speaking of the songs, there isn’t one here that isn’t catchy, danceable and wonderfully performed by the band. It certainly has me Hanging on the Telephone

Jaaa zo fun, van begin tot eind genoten !! Heb t vamorgen nog een keer aan gezet en had wederom een goeie tijd dus dikke top

I own Parallel Lines on vinyl. This is an all time amazing albums. Is it punk? not really. Is it new wave? Maybe a little. What it is, is a tour de force that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Coming in hot with Hanging on the Telephone, and then going directly into One Way or Another to hit you in the face. I don't know if Debbie Harry was the queen of punk rock or the Goddess of new wave, but either way, this record shows why Blondie were one of the most important bands of this era. Oh yeah, and Heart of Glass is on this one too.

4.8/5 great new wave best blondie record

Classic album

Poop

Day 27 Parallel Lines by Blondie How can an album keep the same overall vibe while every song still feels completely unique? This is such a fun, vibrant record and they don’t waste a single second. It’s melodic, the riffs are great, and the biggest songs are legendary for a reason. This is just such a good rock album. It balances perfectly between cool 70s rock and catchy punk-pop, and somehow it never feels forced. It just works. I actually listened to it twice, and honestly… it’s a 5. Wine pairing? A chilled natural red or a sparkling rosé. Something stylish, energetic, and a little bit dangerous. Food pairing? New York-style pizza at 1am. Vinyl? Yeah, I’d absolutely want this on vinyl. First listen? Yes. Favourite song? “Heart of Glass”. Overall 5 out of 5

Excellent album - well paced, great songwriting, and one of the all time best front-people

Альбом превзошел все мои ожидания. Это было просто чудесно 9/10

Blondie always has been and always will be a blast. One of the funnest records ever. I added “One Way or Another” to my playlist.

I’ve never listened to a full Blondie album before this, but I actually enjoyed this! Blondie is so talented! 🥰🩵

Just sublime pop.

Brilliant 👏

back in either 2017 or 2018 when I was a teenager, I dipped my toes into Blondie a tiny bit. I'd found the song "Dreaming" and honestly loved it, so I listened to the whole album that it was on! I then went to tell my mom that I'd listened to them and all my excitement was squashed. She HATES Blondie. With an odd passion too. She gave me a look as if i was committing a crime by listening to them, and I've kinda steered away from them since then. Even tho I still really like the vibe and i'm literally an adult now, the little parent people pleaser rears her angry claws at times. That being said, maybe this album will reignite that original passion and excited I'd originally had when I first found them. I've not really been back to their discography is nearly a decade. It's time to try again. 1. Hanging On The Telephone - Yeah, I love the sound of this. It's just so good! Vocals go crazy 2. One Way or Another - Funny enough, cause of grocery stores and commercials this is probably the song by them I know the best other than "The Tide is High" and "Heart of Glass". It's not my fave, i'd probably skip it on an average day, but it's okay. My mom HATES it tho. 3. Picture This - Yeah, I absolutely love this. This is so cute and cool, and the production is so so so good! 4. Fade Away And Radiate - Not a sound I was expecting from them, but really fucking cool omg. 5. Pretty Baby - Maybe my least fave so far, given the subject matter. I doubt that Debbie Harry was being genuinely weird about it, but still 6. I Know but I Don't Know - This one is just fun lol 7. "11:59" - This one is also cool and fun, but not a stand out to me at the moment. 8. Will Anything Happen? - The guitar on this is so so so fun! I really like this one. 9. Sunday Girl - "Cold as ice cream, but still as sweet" is an instantly iconic line. I really really like this one! It's fun and cool! 10. Heart of Glass - Obviously I know this. When I think of it I tend to think of how Hayley Williams of Paramore adds it on to the end of Hard Times when she sings it live. They work really well together. Iconic songs 11. I'm Gonna Love You Too - Eh, this one is okay. 12. Just Go Away - This one is fun. It's not a fave, but I do really like the sound and it might grow on me. hmm, okay now to decide how to rate this. I did really enjoy it overall. I think this is like a 4.5, so I'm gonna bump it up to a 5 cause I'm feeling nice.

Absolutely loved this album.

Amazing

love it

A scorcher of an album. Favorites: Hanging on the Telephone, One Way or Another, Will Anything Happen Would I listen to it again: Yes

A little 60s style pop but add some female fronted punk. The hits are nonstop. What a killer album.

Fire

One of the most BANGER albums of all time. It's literally all bangers. No filler + the singles hit + it's got some incredibly interesting and ear catching songs. I fuckin love Blondie. What a cool band

Have I listened to this album before? No How familiar am I with this album? I know most quite a few of the songs How do I feel about this artist? Love me some Blondie Favorite song(s)? Heart of Glass, Fade Away and Radiate, Hanging on the Telephone Overall Thoughts: Loved it! Love Blondie even though I am less familiar with the deep tracks. Definitely will be revisiting!

ok shordy ok shordy ok shordy ok shordy ok shordy ok shordy ok shordy ok generator shordy the thing about the new wave™️ is that (to bungle a todd in the shadows paraphrase) although they were dorks they were massive hitmakers (related but unrelated but also related {listen to flock of seagulls' first two albums to get me}) with heavily underrated guitar work and (band dependent) intermittently underrated rhythm section work. that said it's a classic for a reason. properly rated vocals. the 7 track run from 11:59 to i'm gonna love you too🫀🫪. (related but unrelated) the bassist throwing a synth at the producer's kinda baller (actually related) fade away is an elo type beat. thank you mike chapman for "bullying" them into this heat (and functionally sidechaining the synths to the cr78 on heart of glass {that's genius}) but can we turn down the organ solina thing like 2db? 4.5-5

i am always transported to the beach whenever this album is on

All time great

Really great album. A lot of UK chart hits and some good basic pop tracks. I really like this album, but have heard most of the songs so many times that I'm a bit jaded. However it is a solid 5.

Lots of fun. Really liked this

Cool cover, can say the same about the music. 5/5

This is one of those albums where if you don't like it I think we just have fundamentally different music tastes and on some level I will never understand you.

Just a great album, all killer no filler. The success of the album has mostly been attributed to producer Mike Chapman, who whipped the unpolished underground New York band into shape to have a sound that matched their songwriting chops (all members of the band get songwriting credits except for drummer Clem Burke) and the results are near-perfect collection of songs that jump genres between punk, new wave, power pop, bubble gum and disco, yet it all comes together into a cohesive whole.

I don't think Blondie needs much introduction as one of the pioneering bands of the American new wave scene. They still get plenty of airplay on the radio these days, including "One Way or Another" and "Heart of Glass" off this record. I was just looking for a good time spinning Parallel Lines and ended up really digging this. I think credit should be due first and foremost to producer Mike Chapman. Not only does this album have such a glossy pop sheen, but from what I'm reading, he did a lot of behind-the-scenes work to strengthen the band's songwriting and musical chops. That much is evident from the start with the rendition of the Nerves' "Hanging on the Telephone" into "One Way or Another" and "Picture This", as the guitar riffs popped off brilliantly alongside the tightened rhythm section, squelching keyboards, and Debbie Harry's powerful vocal delivery nestled with the harmonies. The fact that they maintained this quality throughout the whole run, even into swerves like the ominous keyboard-led slowburn of "Fade Away and Radiate", the fast-paced swing of "11:59", and the disco flourish of "Heart of Glass", is genuinely impressive alongside the lyrics of fervent reckless abandon as the pursuit of passion proved futile. Even the cover of Buddy Holly's "I'm Gonna Love You Too" fits right at home here with its own tale of a thinly veiled heartbreak. The guts finally spill on the floor with the closing track "Just Go Away", as the guitar wah on the hook accentuates the emotional ache. Parallel Lines is simply an amazing record, as the band and their producer came together to smash through with their particularly edgy power pop sound.

Probably their best album in (my opinion)

Loved it. No notes

pick the jacket pick the bike and play this album. Perfect album to road trip in the bike.

Uniquely late 70s. Uniquely Blondie. Uniquely Deborah Harry.

Still got this on vinyl love it

Pop music doesn't get much better than this

0 skips

This album is an absolute banger, and I feel no shame in giving it a full 5*. The iconic black and white album cover. And the strongest of starts to an album with 'Hanging On The Telephone' followed by 'One Way Or Another'. And despite how strong this album starts, it never really lets up; I would even argue that the end of the album might be even better! Just an all round brilliant time and I would feel guilty giving it less than full marks. Favourites: One Way or Another I Know But I Don't Will Anything Happen Heart Of Glass I'm Gonna Love You Too

Unparalleled Lines

I was too young for this album when it came out, but it's never too late to enjoy. The iconic cover art is awesome too. They could have skipped the last song.

かなり好き

This RIPSSSS holy shit. There’s a slight dip in the middle with some of the more “poppy” tracks, but nothing that ruins the whole project. Nothing I wouldn’t expect from a late 70s album like this and nothing that the band can’t make sound good. The keys and guitar on this are stellar. Extremely solid, fun, powerful album. I need to find this on vinyl! Favorite track: One Way or Another (that guitar solo is just too good. And for this one it might be easier to pick my LEAST favorite track)

A classic album, so many singles and bangers. Blondie at their most pop. But it works, Debbie Harry is iconic, and her vocals are consistently great. I really liked I Know But I Don't Know and Will Anything Happen.

Pure New York late seventies pip and punk mix. Great listen

I absolutely love blondie TODAY'S BIRD: Blond-crested Woodpecker

love Blondie!!!

Perfect album, no notes.

Really good

Bello dai, molto orecchiabile. Non sapevo nemmeno dell'esistenza di questo gruppo, ma ci sono un paio di canzoni famose che conoscevo. Canzone preferita: I'm gonna love you too

Brilliant album, I really enjoyed it! No notes, will be listening to it more frequently

Can't ignore those bangers

Clássic!

Parallel Lines is the third studio album by American rock band Blondie, released on September 8, 1978, by Chrysalis Records. An instant critical and commercial success, the album reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart in February 1979 and proved to be the band's commercial breakthrough in the United States, where it reached No. 6 on the Billboard 200 in April 1979. In Billboard magazine, Parallel Lines was listed at No. 9 in its top pop albums year-end chart of 1979. The album spawned several successful singles, notably the international hit "Heart of Glass"

Eu AMEI este álbum ele em si é um Banger ,tipo, não há uma música minimamente má nele. Além disso a capa é simplesmente icónica

Fab

It’s Blondie…definite 5

This is obviously THE Blondie record everyone knows, but that's for good reason. However we'll remember the band a hundred years from now will be based on our appreciation of this album as one of the classics of its era, a masterpiece not b/c the members were creative geniuses but b/c this is a perfect pop record. For some artists, their purposes converge on a single or two while for others, they span decades of creative output. Blondie is a group that made one essential album, which is not to say they have nothing else worth listening to, or that I love every song off Parallel Lines equally. It just means that when you get to the end of it, you'd be wont to say, 'that's as good as it gets.' And Debbie Harry's vocals possess underrated oomph.

I’ve always loved Blondie. They come from cool cbgb punk origins, so even if you call them (via this album, in fact) sell outs, they sold out in such a fun and genuine way, I could listen to this all the time.

Fun to listen again after such a long time

A classic. I love it, very fun!

fantastic album. i always listen to their greatest hits and rarely their albums. i forgot how great this one is. from the hits to "Picture This", "pretty baby", and "Sunday Girl". Not a dud on the it. and also, what's not to love about Debbie?

It's just a bunch of people with guitars, drums and voices - how can it be so incredible? What is it about a great album that generates such a mental and physical response? I had goosebumps by the second track and by the third song, I wondered if I'd put a 'Best of' on by mistake. I was going to say this is about as good as a guitar pop record can get, but there's more to it than that. Listening properly for the first time in years to songs like Picture This, and Sunday Girl - these are perfectly crafted songs. And Heart of Glass!? What is that? It STILL sounds like something from the future, or maybe from another planet. I really, really, like this record - five stars is not enough.

What a cracking album. For me growing up and seeing Blondie on Top of the Pops was always an exciting experience - fabulous guitar pop music as it should be: sharp, sassy, catchy. Even though it's not an original Blondie song (though I didn't know that for decades) Hanging on the Telephone must be one of their best known and it is a gorgeous pop song. The list goes on: One Way or Another, Heart of Glass, Sunday Girl all fabulous. Songs that still stand up today and are aped by many.

Dare I say better than Autoamerican

People say this is the album that Blondie abandoned their punk roots, but I always thought they were a better pop band than punk band anyway. Sure, the first album has its charms, but this one is just perfect. Not a wasted note.

Just in love with this masterpiece 😭🥲

banger

ugh i love blondie

Blondie is honestly unmatched. When the tone of Sunday Girl kicks in that’s just kinda the peak of music ya know. To then lead into heart of glass holy moly. If i don’t get to hear call me at any stage of this project im gonna scream*. * it’s a single 😩

New Blondie fan!! Another classic review of mine where I’ve finally connected songs I’ve heard before to a name. Had never heard Pretty Baby before though and it’s the first song in all of this list’s listening to reach instant repeat on a loop status. I wish I hadn’t just read that it’s about a 13 yo Brooke Shields, but musically it’s addictive!

You don’t /really/ need me to explain this, do you? The Bang a Gong cover was a nice treat 😌

Wow another album with a women, I was beginning to think Kate bush might be the only one on the list.

Classy stuff. The well known tracks are truly excellent and the album as a whole is first rate. Great compositions and vocals. Distinctive and quality sound. Definitely one for the desert island discs list, difficult to pick out a favourite track. So good.

Banger after BANGER

#40/1001 🇺🇸 What an absolute belter of an album. I'm rating albums musically, but this also has an iconic cover too. Where to start? Side one is pretty much perfect, the first 2 tracks are fast and furious, then we've got a Picture This - lyrically brilliant, an unsettling love letter. Fade Away... gives old movie nostalgia and Pretty Baby is perfect pop. I know but i don't know has a heavy hypnotic riff and whilst its not one of their best known tracks i think its a belter. Moving on to side 2 we have paranoia and dread in the brilliant 11.59. Sunday Girl is power pop and Heart of Glass absorbs the disco influence of the time. Just Go Away is another big favourite of mine too. This album really catches the band at a pivotal moment in their career, moving from punkers to mainstream power pop. I love Debbie Harry's vocals on this record - ranging from a gravelly growl to ethereal cool. Best tracks: Picture This, Fade Away And Radiate, Heart of Glass, Just Go Away, Hanging On The Telephone, 11.59. I mean pretty much the whole album.

Amazing! Split between a 4-5. There were some AMAZING nostalgic songs on here.

I’m a big fan of Blondie. They were part of the New Wave movement. Heart of Glass was a huge hit.

Before this I had heard of the name Blondie, but that was pretty much the extent of my knowledge. Then I saw all the names of the songs on this album. All the hits. All bangers all the time, even the ones I had never heard before.

Ripping fun. Instant mood lifter.

Debbie is such a great fronter and the band keeps every song feeling fresh. A great album for almost any mood or occasion

So fun

If this is not a 5, what is? Deathless bangers.

No question that this gets a 5

While Blondie are worshiped now as punk icons, my first memory of hearing them dates from the summer of 78 (best year ever, once again) when my only source of music was top-40 radio. How did they pull that off? (The same way Nirvana did--accessible songs and cute singer.) Totally holds up. Heart of Glass is a miracle, underwear ad notwithstanding, and I love 11:59.

Classic

Absolutely love this album. Bought this as a teenager and listened to it constantly. Just a perfect album.

GOAT TRULY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Omg me encantó

Longest yeahh boiiiiiii.mp3 So so great. The opening 3 tracks are just sheer excellence and the rest just builds to Heart of Glass and you're like... damn. Debbie Harry. Unreal woman.

*Great pre-punk/pop album

Yes. Yes. Yes. Every song on this is Blondie at their best. One of my favourite new wave albums for a reason.

Самые лучшие хиты собранные под одной обложкой. Однозначно идет в плейлист любимого

One of the greatest albums of time.

Nice, really good

It took me by surprise just how good this album was , the sound is in your face straight up pop rock , with classics such as one way or another , picture this , the iconic heart of glass which sneaks in a very clever little 7/4 groove into the keyboard / singing break of the song Don’t hear that much often in a pop setting The songs are punchy well crafted with killer choruses and great instrumental breaks you can really hear the drummer clem Burke pounding those skins relentlessly with headphones on , another thing I like is the blend of the organ as well playing some nice higher register chords in the background to thicken the guitars out , To imagine this coming out at the time must be quite a revalation to think how it changed music and inspired bands and even today you’d be hard pressed to find a band that can produce a decent song structure like blondie and a good chorus so For me it deserves a solid 5 stars

Zweiundzwanzigstes Album, das ich schon kannte. Und dann ist es noch eins, das ich mir gelegentlich anhöre. Was soll man sagen: Keine schlechten Songs und vor allem gegen Ende wird es nochmal richtig stark. Durchgängige Atmosphäre, ohne dass die Songs zusammenfließen und es macht einfach Spaß und gute Laune. Sogar das Albumcover ist genial.

After 17 days, I am finally blessed with the voice of a woman. Debbie Harry and Blondie have a number of hits and most of them are featured on this record. A collection of power pop, disco influence, punk, mixed with notes of hard rock this record offers a diverse collection of songs ranging from the doo wop loveliness of Sunday Girl to the tension building and never-ending crescendo of Heart of Glass, the broad spectrum of feelings and musical presence of the band supporting Debbie Harry’s vocals makes for a phenomenal listening experience. There’s a reason why many of these songs are considered classics. To have them all on one album is phenomenal.

If I were to rate this off of the bonus tracks it would get a 3, maybe 4 out of 5. But considering it’s off the remastered edition, I’m going to be lenient. I hate when they add bonus stuff to records. I get the sentiment… but to rate the album that has additional poor live performances will inevitably make me like the record less. Imagine listening to a Nirvana record and hearing the bonus and horrible live performances. If you are a die hard fan, I’m sure those are welcomed. But it does take away from the record as a whole. But back to Blondie. This record was perfect. Every song was enjoyable. There is a song on here called I Know But I Don’t Know and it sounds exactly like a Rush song. Which is either kind of cool… or dumb. But it’s different enough within the song to feel like it isn’t stolen, or an homage if anything. Anyways…. Great record. Great riffs. Great rhythm section. Great vocals and lyrics. The singles are world wide recognized. I miss this type of rock and roll.

What a great album!

Awesome. Didn't know so many of the classics were on one album.

Hanging on the Telephone, One Way or Another, and Picture This are an amazing opening sequence, only to be followed by Heart of Glass and Sunday Girl towards the end. Which isn't to say it lags in between, but three songs in they've already covered more breadth and versatility than most albums, and just warming up. Its anything but parallel lines, it's a twisty turny rollercoaster and Debbie, Clem et al are gleefully squeezing your hands as you ride along.

GREAT listen. I didn't think I would enjoy this, but I really did. Every song was a banger. I will gladly listen to this one again.

I remember listening to One Way and Heart of Glass with my cousins, since my uncle had this album, but I never remember listening to the full thing. I thought I'd rate it a 4 but I have to bump it up to a 5. I forget how powerful Debbie Harry's voice is.

On a re-listen this album is much worse, but I still think it's good because although an unconventional choice I think "Sunday Girl" is a top 100 song of all time.

Incredible album of rock and great for its time. A couple of classics and very raw but tidy. Forgot about the oasis cigarrettes and alcohol innovation. Is a solid 9

One of the best bands to come out of the punk rock / new wave movement of the mid to late seventies. I can only give this four stars but I'd like to give it four and a half. Almost every song is a banger.

loooooooove this album 10/5

Banger after banger after banger

At last. A five star album. Remember it coming out. Bought it on vinyl recently. It almost lost a star for the poor ending to each side. But everything else is perfect. Packed with hits plus 11:59 - probably my favourite song on the album

Very good

I was sceptical about listening to this again as I thought it wouldn’t have the impact of when I first listened to it. I think it benefited from my not having listened to it for a while. I don’t think there is not a bad track on the album. There are the obvious singles but my personal favourite is Fade Away and Radiate, which brings a welcome touch of melancholy to the album. The drummer seemed to be having a great time too.

Absolute bangers

Before listening to this I only knew some of the most popular songs but now I wish I'd listened to more sooner! This album has such great variety and definitely some catchy hits!

had this on one side of a bootleg cassette and Eat to the Beat on the other in elementary school and I still love these songs to this day. 6 stars.

classic: one way or another heart of glass once i had a love love it!

Finally some good fu king music. I can see why the popular songs off this album are the well-known ones, but the others are still worthwhile. Great sound, great energy, iconic performances.

Discovered two new liked songs and rediscovered Hanging on the Telephone. 5 favorited songs and a reminder of how powerful Debbie Harry's voice can be...5/5.

An iconic album that lives up to the status. Starts off hot, and doesn't really let up after that.

God, so many incredible songs on this album. I've been meaning to check out Blondie and 'Parallel Lines' for a long time. I knew the band sonically stood somewhere between pop-rock and punk at the cusp of the new-wave movement of the 80s, and I found that to certainly be the case when I was finished listening to this album. I think the sugary 'Sunday Girl' does a great job of presenting those fascinatingly transient elements the album holds. The production is so rich and clear - it's so sobering, like sitting in a tidy room. I love the guitar work on the interlude of 'One Way Or Another' - it's one of the dirtier songs here with those punk elements at the forefront. The song 'Pretty Baby' has an almost throwbacky 60s Phil Spector production vibe with that guitar riff and those chorus harmonies - I dig it. Ultimately, though, Debbie Harry is the heart and soul of this album, and she's absolutely incredible as a lead vocalist. She captures all things great in the late 70s electro-pop and punk vocal styles. Be it the higher register singing of the catchy 'Heart of Glass' or the sticky refrain of the songs 'Will Anything Happen' and especially 'Hanging on the Telephone', it's clear that she's one hell of a dynamic vocalist, and she has an undeniable knack for ear-candy vocal melodies. Debbie really elevates this record beyond what I ever thought it could do for me. It's really just great, wide-appealing rock music, and I can't overstate how fun and addictive it is to listen to. The album transitions from one great motif to another at the drop of a dime; each and every song sounds fresh. Addictive stuff, and I'll be listening to many songs off this thing for a long time.

Pretty good shit. Apart from the classics, face track probably the opener

Einfach gut, Blondie halt Eigenes Rating: 8,9 Top 3: 🥇: One Way Or Another 🥈: Heart Of Glass 🥉: Hanging On The Telephone - Live HM: 11:59, Picture This, Will Anything Happen, Sunday Girl, Just Go Away, I'm Gonna Love You Too

This one surprised me. Never knew I'd like Blondie this much.

It’s a fun album, very good, have it on Cassete and vinyl

I really like this more than I expected to. I'd lived through the time Blondie came out and I always just thought they were a thin pop rock band. Sometimes I wondered what happened with them because they were supposed to have born out of a punk ethos, Debbie was a known punk singer. But then the songs I heard were so poppy I never actually listened to a whole album by them. My bad. There's a pretty good range of tunes/styles here. Her voice is quite good and she shows off a punk growl, a crooners/torch style, and can rock. Wish I had listened to this 45 years ago! "Fade Away And Radiate" is my favorite thing here. (Could be because I've heard "Heart of Glass" over 100 times.) Such a cool and unexpected song. I think it foretells of triphop as it sounds like Morcheeba or the like. I was going to say 4.5, but give it a 4... but listening right now, I have to give it the nudge. It's a worthwhile album everyone should try and most will enjoy.

Great pop rock

Loved it. Has some very fun songs.

Iconic British badass. What a record!

- DI

Catchy power pop and punk rock with many hit songs on it, especially Heart of Glass which is one of my favourite songs from the 70s and since I was a kid I loved that song. This album works very well from start to finish, that's why I round it up from a 4.5 stars to 5.

This is #day498 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… "picture this, a day in December," or here's to the late '70s punk/new wave essentials. I can't say it's my favorite Blondie record (I kind of like it when a band breaks free and delivers, say, Autoamerican). Still, Parallel Lines is a classic, boasting staples like "One Way or Another," "Picture This," "Sunday Girl," and "Heart of Glass." A couple of deep cuts to boot. Last but not least, I absolutely love Debbie Harry. She's one of the most iconic female figures in rock music history. It's crazy to think Blondie is releasing a new album in 2026, exactly 50 years after their debut. Anyway, this is a 5 out of 5. Looking forward to #day499.

Good album to wake up with and get some energy

10 billion!!!

No. 44 Loved this Album. Debbie Harry has such a powerful voice and she wasn’t afraid to be different in a very tumultuous time for rock and roll, and thus helped to influence a revolution.

You know what blew my mind when I first realised it? The fact that 'One Way or Another' and 'Heart of Glass' are both Blondie songs from the same record. I was in absolute disbelief that both the sweet, beautifut voice on 'Heart of Glass' and the wild, raspy howl on 'One Way or Another' were the products of one Deborah Harry. I guess you could say that's where my fascination with Blondie began. 'Parallel Lines' is an absolute classic; an album that doesn't shy away from blending that rough punk sound from the streets of New York with the flourishes of the emerging New Wave movement. It's an incredible achivement given the difficulties during the recording process. Blondie had just brought in a new producer, Mike Chapman, who infamously said they were the worst band he ever worked with in terms of musical ability. He sought to bring out the best in the band through some unorthodox methods, such as encouraging greater songwriting input from other members, encouraging Harry to delve deeper into her singing style to discover more voices and going for multiple takes until perfection was achieved. Whatever he did worked because, like I said, Parallel Lines is probably Blondie's best record! What really impresses me about this album is the versatility of Debbie Harry's voice. I previously said that I was shocked she's the same singer on both 'One Way or Another' and 'Heart of Glass' and I don't mince my words in saying that. I seriously didn't believe it at first. And there's plenty of other songs on this album (Pretty Baby, Sunday Girl, Picture This) that further showcase Harry's chameleonic vocals. Honestly, if I had to pick a favourite female vocalists, its between her and Annie Lennox (Eurythmics) for me. The band also sounds in fine form here. Chris Stein and Frank Infante trade some impressive guitar riffs, Nigel Harrison and Clem Burke produce a solid rhythm section and Jimmy Destri adds numerous colourful keyboard parts that give the songs soul and groove. If Mike Chapman did indeed crack the whip on Blondie during the recordiing of 'Parallel Lines', it obviously worked, because it's not only Blondie's best album, but one of the best albums of the 70s. A true classic from one of New York's finest bands! Best songs: Hanging on the Telephone, One Way or Another, Picture This, Pretty Baby, Will Anything Happen, Sunday Girl, Heart of Glass

LOVE IT! Of all of their LPs this is my favorite.

LOVED THIS!

Brilliant album. Like one or two other 'new wave' band Blondie managed to keep pop and rock mainstream. Perhaps also watershed in terms of the turn towards female singers dominating pop. But great songs great hardworking playing by the whole band to produce a wonderful sound. A bit seminal to jangle pop too probably.

Fun! Love Debby Harry.

This is a classic album, and Debbie Harry is the epitome of cool.

Pretty solid!

Amazing blend of raw energy while still being polished. Not a single bad song, def an album you need to listen to before you die!

I didn't realize how many Blondie songs I love. Love this album

Banger upon banger

The World: “There’s no such thing as perfection.” Blondie: “Hold my beer.” It’s been ages since I last heard Parallel Lines, and I’d forgotten just how flawless this record is. Every track is a masterclass in pop-rock craftsmanship—hooks for days, attitude in spades, and Debbie Harry commanding the spotlight like few others ever could. And then there’s “11:59”—what a tune!! That driving rhythm, the urgency in the lyrics, the way it bridges punk energy with pop sensibility… it’s pure magic. Honestly, this album doesn’t just define an era; it transcends it.

Favorite tracks: Hanging on the Telephone, Heart of Glass, I Know But I Don't Know, 11:59 I absolutely loved this album, every song was great. I'm kicking myself for not listening to more Blondie earlier! Spotify had two versions of Heart of Glass/Once I Had a Love, it's interesting to hear a song's evolution. Both were great, but I definitely think they picked the right one for a single release.

banger after banger

banger of a album, adventurous and fun - trippy at times hell yeah

i absolutely love blondie and this album is probably my favourite of theirs, gets lost a little in the middle third. heart of glass and sunday girl are highlights

Iconic

Hanging on the Telephone is a good cover song with nice guitar riffs to start it off. One Way or Another is a classic; I had forgotten this was a Blondie song. Picture This is pretty good. Fade Away and Radiate is good; nice guitar parts and synth. Pretty Baby sounds like 50s music. I know but I Don't Know is cool. Another with good guitar and catchy riffs. 11:59 is also good with a sick organ solo. Will Anything Happen is also a good song, has a driving beat. Enjoying this album a lot more than anticipated. Sunday Girl is catchy. Hear Of Glass is really good. I've heard it before but didn't know its name or artist. Just Go Away brings back the compressed guitar solo with keys and nice vocal harmony.

Perfect pop album! One of the two vinyl albums I bought on the same day from Woolworths as a 14-year-old. My first of X-thousand over the years and still one of the best! Perfect pop from the opening chord (telephone bell...) to the final fade-out. Every song a winner. The other record I bought with my pocket money that day was Love Bites by Buzzcocks, which I've probably played more times over the years. Sod it, going to play that one now and pretend I'm fourteen again...

Yessssssss Absolute fave Listened twice Bit of a dip in the middle but honestly outweighed by the rest.

To the surprise of no one I've listened to it multiple times before, and one of the very few records on the list I own a vinyl of. Legendary

Still holds up to this day. New wave/punk/ pop infusion

goat

5 stars for the album and another 5 stars for my cat debbie :)

Boom! Perfect album to land on a Friday. This album reminds me that I need a little Blondie in my life on the regular!

There isn't a duff track on this punky power pop album.

Pure pop perfection. I can’t magone a better pop record from this period really. Just brilliant.

this was great, can't believe its from 1978, it's got a more 80s even 90s at times sound to it. they must've helped pioneer the sound that would become so popular. It was poppy but had a bit of edge and wit to it

This is an iconic album. Hanging on the Telephone, One Way or Another, Heart of Glass, so many great songs. The album has good variety and the guitar riffs and bass lines are solid. Debbie Harry's voice is at once powerful and subtle. Its got an early punk sound and musically simple, but just sounds so great.

Rating: 5/5 Short Review: Punk meets pop, both leave wearing each other’s lipstick. Favorite Track: “Heart of Glass” — glittering nihilism with a bassline that still owns every dance floor on Earth.

Brilliant

Excellent Album! Great variation and the live tracks prove just how strong Blondie is!

It's easy to forget how good of a pop album band Blondie was. Their singles were brilliant, but their albums were kinda perfect.

Excellent album

teriffic, teriffic, teriffic I will always have a soft spot for femme-fronted bands, particularly 50's-70's. such strong (literally and figuratively) voices are SO important, and Blondie really rises to that occasion.

Duuh

nice

Debbie Harry leads her harem of men to make some great classic rock

I’m in the phone booth, it’s the one across the hall Find a finer opening lyric on any album.

Timeless banger alert. 10/10

One of those that was practically guaranteed four stars from the singles alone. Heart of Glass is an A*; One Way or Another, Hanging on the Telephone and Sunday Girl are all A’s. At first I was underwhelmed by the album tracks: a solid array of well-crafted power pop, sure, but they felt very much like the ‘supporting cast’ to the main stars of the record. After a few listens, though, I decided that Fade Away and Radiate was really rather good, and that Will Anything Happen? had a bit of that star quality too… So yeah, I talked myself into awarding a 4.5, rounded up. Because at any rate, this process had taught me that there are *very* few albums that are absolute gold from start to finish, and also that the difference between being underwhelmed by an album track and being fond of one is often just time, and repeated listens.

I can't look at this album cover without thinking about Damon Albarn in drag which tells you a bit about some of the things that are wrong with me I guess but unrelatedly: holy shit!! This was my first time hearing a lot of these songs and they truly are all bangers. Perfect from the very first track. I had kind of a shitty day at work today to be honest with you but having this album on repeat the whole time made it just about tolerable. Everyone say thank you to Debbie Harry

Debbie can sing, her grungy voice with the rock is a vibe. Sunday Girl and Heart of Glass are🔥🔥, definitely the best songs on the album.

Fantastic

Yesssss wow thank the lord. I mean she really is just so much better than all the sad boys we just endured… the vocal range! This ruled. I was making dinner and drinking a green bottle of beer and taking big sexy swigs to this big sexy music and feelin’ alive baby!!!

Yes yes yes! I love this album, it was one of my most played in high school. Debbie Harry is too cool, and there are so many fun songs. My favorites are Picture This, Pretty Baby, Fade away and Radiate, Sunday Girl….actually the whole album is amazing. Can you even imagine what it must have been like to see Blondie play at CBGBs in 1978???? Damn what a hot time to be young

Rating: 9.5/10 One of the best albums of the 70s: just incredibly catchy, amazing vocals, fun instrumentals, and varied and tight songwriting throughout.

kupiłam ostatnio tą płytę - KOCHAM BLONDIE

25.09.25 n#2 Favourite tracks: one way or another, Sunday girl, heart of glass. Rate: 9/10

Good memories from the first time hearing this way back in the late 70s. Its the perfect rock pop new wave album. Still sounds fresh today.

Love it.

9/10. The instruments can get repetitive but it’s such a well defined sound.

Blondie is one of my favorite bands ever. I love the way they evolved over time and put a lot of other great talent on the map. This album rules

So many hits. Such good tunes. Wasn't expecting to give a 5, but here we are.

Ranking an album that, judging by other reviews, represents different musical milestones for various listeners makes it pretty hard to find comparable albums. Is this a pure pop album, targeting the heart of the radio listener of 1979; is this a punk band gone big; is this a woman's voice for a new decade; is this something else entirely? By what yardstick do I measure this? Look, this is a very good and very accessible album. After all these years, I'm still not tired of "Heart of Glass" or "One Way Or Another," and I love their interpretation of "Hanging On The Telephone" (and the Nerves' powerpop original is also great). I love the variety of influences, I love the execution, I love the way this album manages to satisfy so many listeners. I'd compare it to The Bangles' debut "All Over the Place". It's as deep as you'd like.

LOVE!

Debbie Harry is one of a kind. All hail Blondie.

The hits are great and the rest are cool. No complaints.

Absolute perfection, every song shimmers. Fast paced, fun, gorgeous melodies, relentless.

My daughter has a T-shirt of them, with a picture taken by my friend.

One of my favorite albums ever. No skips on this one, with a great collection of art pop/pop punk jams featuring great instrumentation and amazing vocals. Easy 5/5

Flawless album. Starts at 100 and stays there. Debbie Harry is one of the best to ever do it!!

Love love love Blondie

I just love it! So slick, so cool.

Such a rad album. More variety and catchier than I expected. Feels like such a good pop rock album all the way through, really well made but never feels so polished to be boring. I know but I know was an unexpected jam. The instrumentals and solos mixed in on all the songs are great, really enjoyed how a song might go from kind of light and boppy, to being heavy and full of guitar riffs. 11:59 builds so well and changes tone throughout. Will anything happen gets kind of heavy with a great drum solo. Overall the guitar riffs were great, vocals were great and suited the music, fantastic album.

My favorite

Who doesn’t love Blondie? They are among the best New Wave acts out there. This record just shows their ability to write angry sounding pop songs.

This was a nice surprise, knew the hits already but really like the rest of it. High energy and good production

Another new wave, 80's rock gem

If I had the time and the patience, I would write a paean to this record. I adore it that much. I don't think it's technically perfect or anything, but that's where the beauty lies. It's this amalgamation of pop, punk, disco, and new wave, and it came at the precise moment in music history to max out on all its influences. Parallel Lines is an open door to and from each of those genres, and its success - it's honey-sweet, hooky, propulsive success - allowed countless others to cross between worlds in their footsteps.

I thought about rating this album lower for a second because the singles, or really the two biggest singles, from this album loom so large it feels almost impossible to not be let down a bit by anything else. But the more I listen to this album, I find myself anticipating the highlights more.....while also being more excited to hear what comes between. Of course you've got one of the greatest disco songs of all time and the song that may as well be the most prototypical example of new wave imaginable, but there's so many nods to New York punk, girl groups, and softer balladry in between that overall this album becomes such a joyous exercise in listening to a band explore the whole world in front of them all at once. Maybe this band just got lucky with divine inspiration for a few songs that still stick generations later. But also, most bands aren't Blondie, either.

## In-Depth Review: Blondie's *Parallel Lines* (1978) ### **Background & Context** Released in September 1978, *Parallel Lines* was Blondie’s third studio album and a defining moment for the New York new wave scene. Produced by Mike Chapman (known for glam-rock hits with The Sweet), the album marked a deliberate shift toward radio-friendly pop while retaining the band’s punk edge. It catapulted Blondie from underground CBGB darlings to global superstars, selling over 20 million copies worldwide and spawning four iconic singles, including their first U.S. #1, "Heart of Glass" . --- ### **Lyrics & Themes** Debbie Harry’s lyrics blend romantic yearning, urban grit, and feminist defiance: - **Female Agency**: "One Way or Another" disguises a stalker narrative with upbeat music, reflecting Harry’s use of "levity as a survival mechanism" against male aggression . - **Vulnerability & Irony**: "Heart of Glass" juxtaposes disco euphoria with disillusionment ("Once I had a love, it was a gas"). "Pretty Baby" critiques idealized innocence through a lens of voyeurism. - **Urban Isolation**: "Hanging on the Telephone" (a cover of The Nerves) captures frantic longing, while "11:59" explores existential dread beneath its driving rhythm . - **Ambiguity**: Harry’s delivery—alternately detached, playful, or menacing—elevates straightforward themes into nuanced portraits of desire and disillusion . --- ### **Musical Innovation** The album’s genre fusion was revolutionary: - **New Wave/Punk Energy**: Tracks like "One Way or Another" and "I Know But I Don’t Know" feature angular guitar riffs (Chris Stein’s Stratocaster and Frank Infante’s Les Paul) and Clem Burke’s explosive drumming . - **Disco Synthesis**: "Heart of Glass" combined Kraftwerk-inspired motorik beats, Chic-esque funk bass (Nigel Harrison), and lush synths, creating a "manual mosaic" of 16th-note guitar chops . - **Eclectic Range**: "Fade Away and Radiate" merges gothic atmospherics with Robert Fripp’s avant-garde guitar solos; "Sunday Girl" channels 60s girl-group pop; "I’m Gonna Love You Too" reinvents Buddy Holly as rockabilly punk . - **Vocal Mastery**: Harry shifts from punk snarl ("Just Go Away") to ethereal crooning ("Heart of Glass"), proving her range extended far beyond "sexy zombie" caricatures . *Key Tracks & Musical Styles*: | **Track** | **Genre Fusion** | **Notable Elements** | |-------------------|--------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | "Hanging on the Telephone" | Power-pop punk | Jersey-accented vocals, driving guitars | | "One Way or Another" | Punk-rock | D-B grind riff, F♯m manic bridge | | "Heart of Glass" | Disco-rock | CR78 drum machine, octave bass runs | | "Fade Away and Radiate"| Art-rock | Frippertronics, cinematic synths | --- ### **Production: Precision vs. Rebellion** Producer Mike Chapman imposed studio discipline on Blondie’s "musically spotty" performances : - **Perfectionism**: Chapman spent hours re-recording parts, notably Stein’s guitar solos and Burke’s "poor timing." Tensions peaked when bassist Nigel Harrison threw a synth at him . - **Sonic Clarity**: Tracks were built "bar-by-bar," emphasizing hook-centric arrangements. The crisp separation of Harry’s vocals, Burke’s "organic" drums, and dual guitars created a polished yet urgent sound . - **Innovative Techniques**: "Heart of Glass" was pieced together manually over 4–5 days, layering Space Echo effects and synths over a Roland CR78 rhythm machine . --- ### **Influence & Legacy** *Parallel Lines* reshaped pop and alternative music: - **Genre-Blending Blueprint**: Its fusion of punk, disco, and pop paved the way for new wave’s mainstream acceptance, influencing acts from The Cars to LCD Soundsystem . - **Female Iconography**: Harry’s blend of "gamine sophistication" and streetwise authenticity redefined frontwomen in rock, inspiring Madonna, Shirley Manson (Garbage), and Hayley Williams (Paramore) . - **Enduring Relevance**: Critics rank it among pop-rock’s greatest albums (Robert Christgau called it "as close to God as pop-rock albums get"). Its DNA echoes in The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Robyn . --- ### **Pros vs. Cons** | **Pros** | **Cons** | |-----------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | **Genre Innovation**: Seamless disco-punk fusion. | **Band Tensions**: Chapman’s rigidity stifled spontaneity (e.g., live versions of "Hanging on the Telephone" outshine studio cuts) . | | **Debbie Harry’s Performance**: Vocal versatility and lyrical wit. | **Filler Tracks**: Deep cuts like "I Know But I Don’t Know" feel underdeveloped vs. singles . | | **Production Polish**: Chapman’s sleek, radio-ready sound. | **Over-Discipline**: Some punk energy lost to studio perfectionism . | | **Timeless Hits**: 4 iconic singles + strong B-sides. | **Covers Uneven**: Buddy Holly’s "I’m Gonna Love You Too" adds little . | --- ### **Verdict** *Parallel Lines* remains a landmark for its fearless genre alchemy, Debbie Harry’s iconic presence, and Chapman’s transformative production. While minor filler and studio tensions slightly mar its consistency, the album’s strengths—innovative songwriting, stylistic daring, and cultural impact—cement it as a "perfect pop-rock blueprint" . Over 45 years later, its fusion of punk rebellion and disco glitter still sounds exhilaratingly vital. > *Key Citation*: "A sparkling record half-full of recognized classics hiding in plain sight" .

Outstanding. Unequivocally one of the greatest albums ever written.

First 5. About half of the songs on this I really like. The rest range from OK to good. Nothing I'd immediately want to skip.

Was looking forward to this and all I can share is - it delivered. Just really enjoyable and now on the playlist to listen to regularly. Never really knew much about blondie before - assumed there was a risk it was a bit dated - but turns out it’s an absolute classic

Decided it was a 5 in the first 10 seconds and then just sat back and enjoyed myself

It was nice

Love this!

I love it

A 10/10 album and my favorite on the list so far. Was really excited to see this one come up this morning. I've never played a Blondie album in full. Going in, I recognized One Way or Another, Heart of Glass, and Sunday Girl (which was sort of a deep cut for me) but came out with several new favorites. "Fade Away and Radiate", "Sunday Girl", "Just Go Away", and (my favorite) "11:59" were huge standouts for me and all ended up in some playlists. What strikes me about this album is how influential it immediately felt. Like much of the music I've listened to my whole life was born from this style. Knowing that it came out in 1978, it feels like a true pioneer of alternative and indie rock. Its effortlessly cool but totally sincere, musically exciting and of course Debby Harry is one of the greatest vocalists in rock. This is a no-skips, 10/10 album.

An exceptionally fun album. Lots of standout tracks (heart of glass, one way or another, Sunday girl, I’m gonna love you too). Very engaging throughout. No skip album

Perfect crossroads album of post punk, new wave and power pop. Just a few of the standouts include "Hanging on the Telephone", "Heart of Glass", "Sunday Girl" and "One Way or Another" to name a few.

This is nostalgia for me and I adore it. Mum used to put it on all the time while doing housework, when I was a kid. Simple good memories. Objectively also a banger.

God I could gush for hours Harry's voice but I won't. Just know that I love her in each and every way. This album is a staple in the New Wave genre, filled with hits and one of the greatest songs ever "Heart of Glass." ❤️ The group bounces from mellow songs like "Sunday Girl" and "Picture This" to more up beat songs like "Will anything Happen" and "One Way or Another"... regardless of any track you choose, this album is totally electrifying and cements Blondie as legends in Rock/New Wave.

New Wave wonders.

Perfect pop

I imagine I've listened to this album all the way through in the past. Songs of my youth that I remember. I've added it to my background music list. 5 out of 5.

Yeah that slaps actually

Fantastic rock music. Where has this been in my life?

I love this album so much

73/1001. There are those albums, which you love and own,but which you don’t listen that much. And then there are those, which you own and love and listen to over and over again. This is one of those latter albums.

Awesome album , loved it

The Blondie Disco Album! Parallel Lines was the Blondie album that yanked Blondie out of the NYC New Wave scene and into international stardom, mostly because of the song Heart of Glass i.e. The Disco Song. The rest of the album is a masterpiece of New Wave songs, full of pop references and just enough quirkiness to not seem too insular or precious. From the cover of The Nerves' Hanging on the Telephone to the Robert Fripp infused Fade Away and Radiate, to the final track telling you to Just Go Away, Parallel lines is one great song after another... except Heart of Glass. It's hard to imagine today the breath of the controversy at the time but, Heart of Glass was almost a Blondie deal breaker to the NYC New Wave community. It's disco beat alone, while presaging the technopop of the 80s, was patently offensive to most Punk and New Wave folks. The whole "Blondie as Disco" thing seemed like capitualtion to the mainstream and not forward muscial evolution. The rest of the world loved it though. It was pop, it was disco, and to mainstream top-40 radio, a great song. With the space of almost 50 years between now and then, it's easy to see Heart of Glass for what it was - a sellout. It worked too! It's actually one of the weakest songs on the album but it got Blondie the attention they were seeking and it's why we are even talking about this album today. That's unfortuntate because the album itself is amazing... except for Heart of Glass.

Really good album. Debbie Harry is an amazing lead vocalist, she’s a force. I knew all the hits, but never listened to this in full before. I’m not surprised I loved it, but I’m surprised I didn’t listen to it sooner.

Fuckin love blondie

There's 4 bonafide classic songs here. Unfortunately, 3 of those are the first 3 songs on the album, but that's not to say there's a single bad song here. I have listened to this before, and I was going in expecting to give it a 4, but having listened, I think this is a 5. Just an incredibly fun catchy album.

Blondie är så coola! Några riktiga bangers + genomgående välljudande

"I want to tell you something you've known all along," she sings on the opener, and then she proceeds to do exactly that, running through power pop that feels both fresh and timeless in a way that's both relentless careerist (Disco! From a punk-adjacent band! The horror!) and quietly revolutionary by virtue of it coming from her voice. I'd call it the sound of the hunter getting captured by the game except that it collapses the categories of "hunter" and "game" so thoroughly.

This was unexpectedly fun! Loved the variety, the instrumentals, and the vocal work. 'One Way Or Another' is a certified classic and my fave. 'Heart Of Glass' was also an awesome track! Hard to pick between the two.

Really good rock/new wave album! I'd already heard Heart of Glass and One Way or Another, and after a careful listen I think they're both excellent. The real surprising part was how consistently good the album was. Sunday Girl is maybe the pick of the rest, but it's very close with just about any other track.

It’s actually kind of wild how many iconic songs are crammed into this thing. The variety is nuts! Its got punky edges and glossy pop hooks. Pure gold. Spins: 3 Playlist Additions: - Hanging On The Telephone - On Way Or Another - Picture This - Sunday Girl - Heart Of Glass - I'm Gonna Love You Too

Blondie's masterpiece 😍

Wow, this blew my mind! Knew a little of Blondie but it's all here and then some. There's nothing else for it, this is just.... COOL. I want to be in Blondie. Loved it.

Amazing album!

So many amazing songs here!

Only one meh song and the singles are all top class

# Playlist Track - Hanging on the telephone # Notes - Not looking at the additional tracks from the extended version. - For something published almost half a century ago, this sounds pretty damn modern and fresh! - Listening to this on Debbie Harry's birthday! She's 80 today?! Oh my!

This is incredible, some of the most stand out singles of all time compiled into one album, it is almost like a blondie best of. Also shout out to 11:59 and fade away and radiate the album’s non single gems that make this a must listen for every 5/5

Excellent album. New to me as I am only really familiar with their Best Of (although a lot of it seems to be from here!)

hell yeah, WAY better than Patti Smith and Nick Cave. I should dislike this more on principle, but i think Debbie is a badass. these guys are sellouts, that's a fact. but they had a lot going on. they are apart of that scene early on in a very pivotal way. this one has banger after banger for 78. the energy this has from start to finish is undeniable. Hanging on the Telephone should be a hit cuz for the start its amazing. its hard to find a song i skip. there is a 50's theme throughout but it does stray for its own version of that style. the punk roots are here in a big way. I Know but I Don't Know and 11:59 show that. them playing shows with the Ramones at CBGB's is a radical image. there is sense of humor that if you aren't in on the joke, you just take the record at face value as a low budget rock project when, in reality, the ideas going into these tracks are basically the foundation that would build a scene for 30 more years. this is honestly 5/5 for all the markers: i have a connection to it, its a triumph of this group's talent, and moved music forward that we still see influence of today. arguments have been made as to how important they are to the punk scene versus others who are less recognized, but gun to my head, its objectively a perfect record. this idea at that time was brand new and opened doors wide. last song is called Just Go Away which tops that attitude that this album is exudes regardless of what you think.

My timelines are way off. Blondie were active in the 70s? This album is wall to wall new wave bangers

Excellent album. I don't know how they do it but every song hits perfectly and they each sound unique.

The mixture of punk and pop in the hands of this band produces one of the albums of the era. Debbie Harry’s vocal really carry it well.

This is the 148th album I’m rating. I don't really know anything about Blondie but I've heard about them before. Adding to my Playlist - Hanging on the Telephone, One Way or Another, Fade Away and Retaliate, Pretty Baby, Sunday Girl, Heart of Glass, I'm Gonna Love You Too, and Just go Away. Not Adding to my Playlist - Picture This, I Know but I don't Know, 11:59, and Will Anything Happen. One Way or Another - I didn't know this was Blondie. Classic song. All in all I liked 8/12 songs. Pretty basic pop album. Pretty good though.

Отличный альбом, много классных хитов

Awesome album!!! Not a bad song on here!!

Absolutely a classic

The return to Pop. A pleasant listen.

Banger after banger

Blondie has been a favorite of mine for a long time. Like her friends Iggy, Bowie, and Joey - Blondie never sought to define themselves as New Wave or Punk Rock. Instead they wrote and produced songs from several genres and influences. I LOVE the album opener "Hanging On The Telephone" even today. Debbie wasn't blessed with a traditional beautiful voice like Linda Ronstadt or Pat Benatar, but you could HEAR her moxy and life experience of New Jersey/New York. There were 6 singles on this album, each another delicious flavor.

How good is Blondie! Banging record.

Favorite song: Pretty Baby I really like one way or another, I understand why it was such a big hit. I know but I don't know almost felt too repetitive and didn't not fit but also didn't fit, it felt like a last minute add on to fill time. I like the roadtrip feel of just go away, it would be a great car song. This album has a nice feel to it. It feels a little bit mainstream but not necessarily in a bad way but in the way that you could play it for anyone and they'd like it. Especially with the obviously rock inspired guitars and pop-rock type vocals and the keyboard they use.