Monday, April 10, 2006

The Stranglers - Rattus Norvegicus


Like the Vibrators, the Stranglers were an older band which managed to gain visibility and success through association with Britain's punk movement. Musically, the group is much more polished than some of their rawer brethren such as the Adverts and Siouxsie and the Banshees. The Stranglers' early work is most properly described as stripped-down pop played with a hardcore sensibility; fairly lengthy songs with frequent solo breaks, prominent keyboard usage, and occasional employment of vocal harmony sets them apart from their peers. But snarling lead singing that puts forth macho/critical/distasteful lyrics predominates here, clearly showing the group's punk affinity. Most of the songs on this album fit the description of hardcore pop to a tee, but there are a few deviations from this model. "Princess of the Streets" is a slow-tempo selection with blueslike echoes. The ambitious "Down in the Sewer" crosses the concept of episodic numbers like the Who's "A Quick One" with early-'60s instrumentals. And the energetic "London Lady" is almost a true punk song -- or at least as close as the band gets to one. While not the equal of their best album, No More Heroes, this release is solid and worthwhile, a rewarding listen.
Tracklist

2 COMMENTS:

Ben on 6:07 pm said...

1. Sometimes
2. Goodbye Toulouse
3. London Lady
4. Princess Of The Streets
5. Hanging Around
6. Peaches
7. (Get A) Grip (On Yourself)
8. Ugly
9. Down In The Sewer: Falling/Down In The Sewer/Trying To Get Out Again/Rats Rally

Anonymous said...

As I’m from the time of the Hippie movement I remember the teenagers saying to me have you heard of this group the Stranglers you should give it a listen. So I did it has to be one of the greatest records it’s a classic. My old vinyl copy is unplayable. Thanks for the share. You have a very good blog.

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